The alternator is essential to the operation of the Nissan Maxima, just as it is with any other automobile. You should inspect the alternator on a regular basis, or about every 25,000 miles. Look for worn belts, damaged wires and cracked alternator housing. Also, have you noticed that the lights are noticeably dimmer than they once were? Does the battery voltage meter show a lower setting than normal? Although some people may think their battery is losing power, the alternator may be the actual source of the problem.
Open the engine compartment and disconnect the negative battery terminal using a wrench to loosen the nut.
Disconnect the two wires to the alternator using a wrench to remove the nuts and then unplug the alternator wiring harness.
Loosen the drive belt adjuster bolt using a socket and ratchet, but don’t take it all the way off. Lift the drive belt away from the alternator pulley only.
Remove the alternator mounting bolts with a socket and ratchet. Pull the alternator out of the car.
Put the replacement alternator in the vehicle and tighten the bolts with the socket and ratchet. Place the drive belt on the alternator pulley and tighten the drive belt adjuster bolt. Reconnect the two wires using a wrench to tighten the nuts and then plug in the wiring harness. Reconnect the battery and tighten the terminal nut with a wrench.
