Replacing the alternator in your Chevy Aveo is a great do it yourself project that will save you money. The alternator on your Aveo is responsible for charging the battery as well as generating electricity for the ignition system and other accessories in the car. If you are experiencing a weak battery on a regular basis, the alternator may be failing. Removing the alternator from the car will allow you to have it tested or replace it. You can buy a new or remanufactured alternator at most auto parts stores and most of them will bench test your old starter free if you bring it to the store.
Remove the negative battery cable from the battery after loosening the retaining bolt with a wrench. Set the cable aside so that it is isolated from the battery terminals.
Locate the electrical connector in the air tube on your car. The air tube runs across the top of the engine from the air box to the throttle body. Unplug the connector and lay the wires off to one side.
Remove the clamps on both ends of the air tube. Remove the air tube from the engine and set it in a safe place. The tube runs over the top of the alternator locations so removal is required to access the alternator.
Locate the wiring harness connector on the rear of the alternator. Remove the nut from the connector with a wrench and lay the wire off to the side.
Loosen the upper and lower mounting bolts for the alternator with a socket and ratchet. Remove the serpentine belt from the pulley after releasing the tension on the belt. The tensioner is on the front of the engine; rotate it counterclockwise with a socket and ratchet to release the tension.
Remove the mounting bolts from the alternator and remove it from the engine compartment. Position the new alternator onto the mounting bracket and install the mounting bolts with a socket and ratchet. Torque the bolts to 18 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
Install the wiring harness connector on the rear of the alternator and tighten the retaining nut with a socket and ratchet. Torque the nut to 11 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.
Release the tension on the serpentine belt tensioner with your ratchet and socket then install the belt on the alternator. Rotate the tensioner clockwise, allowing it to tighten the belt.
Install the negative battery cable on the negative post of the battery. Tighten the retaining bolt on the cable end with a wrench.
