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2015–2020 Acura TLX

2015-2020 Acura TLX — Replace Alternator

🔧🔧🔧 Advanced 2-3 hours $730 DIY 3 views

Save $770 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $1,500

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

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Total Cost
$730.57
Part Name Part Number Price Buy
Alternator Assembly 31100-R53-A01 $660.57
Alternator Belt 31105-R53-A01 $50.00
Alternator Bolt Kit 90005-R53-A01 $20.00

About prices: shown prices are estimates from typical Amazon listings and change frequently, and cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price on Amazon before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

1

Disconnect the battery

Park on level ground and set the parking brake. Disconnect the negative battery cable on the 2015-2024 Acura TLX Base and isolate it so it cannot spring back. Wear gloves and eye protection. Never work on the charging circuit with the battery connected.

2

Relieve belt tension and remove the belt

Note or photograph serpentine-belt routing. Rotate the tensioner to relieve pressure and slip the belt off the alternator pulley. Inspect the belt for cracks or glazing while it is off.

3

Unplug connectors and B+ cable

Unplug the alternator field/regulator connector. Remove the protective boot and nut from the B+ output stud, then free the heavy cable. Label any ground straps or secondary connectors so they return to the correct terminals.

4

Unbolt and remove the alternator

Support the alternator and remove the mounting bolts/brackets. Maneuver the unit out of the engine bay — on some 2015-2024 Acura TLX Base layouts you may need to loosen an intake duct, fan shroud, or splash shield for clearance.

5

Compare and transfer fittings

Compare pulley diameter, clocking, and connector style on the new alternator. Transfer any bushings, spacers, or brackets from the old unit if the replacement does not include them. Confirm the pulley spins freely.

6

Install the new alternator

Position the new alternator, start all bolts by hand, then tighten to the specified torque. Reconnect the B+ cable and protective boot, plug in the connector until it clicks, and verify no wires are pinched.

7

Refit the serpentine belt

Route the belt per your photo or the under-hood diagram and release the tensioner so ribs seat fully in every pulley. Double-check alignment on the alternator pulley.

8

Reconnect battery and verify charging

Reconnect the negative battery cable. Start the 2015-2024 Acura TLX Base and measure charging voltage (typically ~13.5–14.7 V at idle with lights on). Listen for belt noise and confirm no battery/charging warning lamp remains illuminated.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Not disconnecting the battery before starting the repair
  • • Forgetting to properly torque the alternator bolts
  • • Neglecting to check the alternator belt for wear during replacement