New alternators come with a warranty from the manufacturer and are generally considered more reliable and long-lasting than remanufactured units. They also tend to have better performance and efficiency, which can improve the overall performance of your vehicle.

Alternators can average anywhere from $100 to $350 depending on make and model. Most vehicles will have an average cost between $350-400 for the total job of an alternator replacement if no other parts need to be replaced. If the serpentine belt is included in the process, add another $20 to $50 to your bill.

The lifespan of a rebuilt alternator can vary widely depending on the quality of the remanufacturing process. A well-done refurbishment can result in an alternator that performs similarly to a new one, often lasting between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.

Factors such as heat, vibration, and electrical spikes can eventually cause the alternator to fail. According to Repair Smith, your car's alternator may fail because of: Age and use-related wear. Engine oil of power steering fluid leaking onto the alternator.