Choosing the Right Alternator for Your 2011-2016 Dodge Durango
A detailed look at alternator replacement for your Durango, including known issues and brand comparisons.
- Check if your Durango was part of the major NHTSA alternator recall (17V-435) before buying a new part.
- You must match your original alternator's amperage (160A, 180A, or 220A) to prevent electrical issues and premature failure.
- Premium brands like Bosch and Denso generally offer higher reliability compared to some budget-friendly options.
- A failing alternator can cause your vehicle to stall unexpectedly, so it's a repair that should not be delayed.
Is Your Durango's Alternator Failing?
An alternator rarely fails without warning. If you own a 2011-2016 Dodge Durango, be aware of these common symptoms that point to a failing alternator. Ignoring them can leave you stranded when the battery's reserve power runs out.
- Battery Warning Light: The most obvious sign is a dashboard warning light shaped like a battery or one that says "ALT" or "GEN".
- Dimming or Flickering Lights: Headlights and interior lights may dim, flicker, or seem weaker than usual, especially at idle.
- Whining or Grinding Noises: A failing alternator often makes a high-pitched whining or grinding sound that changes with engine speed. This is usually caused by worn-out internal bearings.
- Electrical Issues: You might notice power windows operating slowly, the radio malfunctioning, or other strange electrical behavior as the alternator struggles to provide consistent voltage.
- Dead Battery: A bad alternator can't recharge the battery, leading to a no-start condition. While a battery can fail on its own, if you replace it and it dies again quickly, the alternator is the likely culprit.
Major Safety Recall: NHTSA 17V-435 (FCA Campaign T36)
A critical safety recall was issued for 2011-2014 Dodge Durango models equipped with 160, 180, or 220 amp alternators. The alternator's diodes were prone to failure from thermal fatigue, which could cause the unit to stop charging suddenly. This can lead to an unexpected engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In some instances, the failure could also cause a fire. Before purchasing a replacement, it is essential to check with a Dodge dealer or use the NHTSA website to see if your vehicle was part of this recall and if the repair was completed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Alternator
When replacing your alternator, you must match the amperage rating of the original unit. Using an alternator with a lower amperage than what your Durango requires will lead to premature failure. Your vehicle's specifications will list whether it needs a 160, 180, or 220 amp alternator. Aftermarket brands offer a range of quality and price points.
Premium Brands
These brands are known for manufacturing original equipment (OE) parts for many carmakers and have a strong reputation for quality and reliability.
- Bosch: A top-tier German manufacturer known for durable, efficient, and reliable alternators that meet or exceed OE standards. They are often a pricier option but provide excellent performance.
- Denso: An OE supplier for many Japanese vehicles, Denso is highly respected for its lightweight, high-quality, and efficient alternators. They are considered a premium choice for replacement parts.
Standard & Economy Brands
These brands offer a balance of value and quality, making them popular choices for daily drivers. Quality can sometimes be inconsistent compared to premium brands.
- Remy: A long-standing brand in the aftermarket, Remy offers both new and remanufactured units. While many users have had good experiences, some have reported premature bearing failures. 🎬 Watch an unboxing and review of Remy alternators here.
- WAI Global: This company supplies a wide range of new electrical parts. Some units come with a test sheet verifying their output, which is a good sign of quality control. However, some user experiences have been mixed, with reports of whining noises or units not meeting their advertised amperage.
- BBB Industries: A major supplier of remanufactured parts, you may find their products sold under various store brands.
High-Output Brands
For Durangos with significant electrical upgrades like powerful sound systems or extra lighting, a high-output alternator might be necessary.
- Powermaster: Specializes in high-amperage alternators for street and performance use. While they offer powerful options, some users have reported reliability issues and noisy operation.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part | $163 - $440 |
| New OEM Part | $811 - $871 |
| Shop Labor | $119 - $175 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $930 - $1,046+ |
Pro Tip: When replacing the alternator, it's a good practice to also inspect the serpentine belt and belt tensioner. These parts often wear out at a similar rate, and replacing them at the same time can save you from doing the same job twice.
🎬 See how to replace the alternator on a Hemi V8.Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Durango was part of the alternator recall?
You can enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the official NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov/recalls) or contact a Dodge dealership. They can tell you if your vehicle was affected by recall 17V-435 (also known as FCA campaign T36) and whether the free replacement was performed.
What does the amperage (e.g., 160A, 180A, 220A) of an alternator mean?
Amperage, or "amps," is a measure of electrical current output. Your Durango was equipped from the factory with an alternator (160A, 180A, or 220A) designed to handle its specific electrical load. You must replace it with a unit of the same or higher amperage to ensure all systems function correctly and to prevent premature failure.
Is it the battery or the alternator?
A simple test can help. With the engine running, a healthy alternator should produce a voltage between 13.5 and 14.8 volts. If you have a multimeter, you can check the voltage across your battery terminals while the engine is on. If the voltage is in the low 12s or dropping, the alternator is likely not charging.
Can I upgrade to a higher amperage alternator?
Yes, you can upgrade, and it's often recommended if you have added high-draw accessories like a winch, a large audio system, or extensive auxiliary lighting. Brands like Powermaster specialize in these high-output units. However, for a stock vehicle, the original amperage is sufficient.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: RL111313AB 4801323AD 4801323AE 4801778AF 4801778AG
Amperage options include 160A, 180A, and 220A. The specific amperage required depends on the vehicle's engine (3.6L or 5.7L) and factory-installed options.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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