A failing alternator can be a sneaky problem. You might initially think that you're suffering from a dying battery only to discover that your electrical issues continue even after replacing it. These problems are a sure sign of a charging system issue, and the alternator is a critical part of that system that often fails on older vehicles.

If you need to buy a new alternator for your car, you'll usually have a few options. Which one is the best choice, and do you need to spend a ton of money at the dealership? Fortunately, the answers to these questions aren't complicated, and you can quickly and easily learn how to pick a replacement alternator for your car.

Should You Upgrade?

Your first decision is critical: does it make sense to buy an upgraded alternator? Alternators are a common item to upgrade because a higher amperage can boost your car's charging system. In most cases, upgrading will mean purchasing an aftermarket part, but you'll learn more about what that means later on.

As a general rule, upgraded alternators make sense if you use other upgraded electrical or electronic components in your car. For example, high-end sound systems or exterior lighting might place a higher draw on your battery. A better alternator will ensure your charging system can keep up with the demand. If you're performing these mods on your, now might be a good time to upgrade.

On the other hand, you usually won't need to upgrade if you aren't making other changes to your car. In these cases, sticking with a replacement alternator equivalent to your factory model will save some money and potentially make for easier fitment and installation.

Which One Should You Get?

Since alternators are such a common failure point in many vehicles, you'll probably find a wide range of options at your dealership, local auto parts stores, and online. These options will broadly fall into OE (original equipment), OEM (original equipment manufacturer), and aftermarket parts. Upgraded parts aside, OE parts are typically costly, while aftermarket parts are often more affordable.

Although there are some caveats, an OE part will be identical to the alternator that came with your car. OEM parts are functionally the same but may look slightly different or lack your manufacturer's branding. Finally, aftermarket parts come from third-party manufacturers and can often vary in quality or fitment.

If you're upgrading, you'll want to select a quality aftermarket part from a reliable manufacturer. For a straight replacement, OEM parts often offer the best combination of affordability and reliability. You can also choose to purchase an aftermarket replacement to save some more cash, but select one from a dependable and well-reviewed manufacturer.

When in doubt, many auto parts suppliers can help you choose the best option for your car. A little professional advice can ensure that you pick the perfect alternator for your vehicle and budget.

For more information on car parts, contact a company near you.