If you own a 2012 Honda Odyssey and need to replace the alternator, this blog post will guide you through the process. The video may be brief, but it will give you a good idea of how to remove and replace the alternator in your vehicle. Please note that the transcript has been edited for clarity and conciseness.
The first step is to remove the plastic cover on top of the radiator, along with the engine cover. Then, disconnect the belt tensioner and remove the belt. After that, remove the 14mm bolt at the bottom of the alternator and the bracket with the 12mm bolts. Additionally, there will be a 10mm and another 12mm bolt for the connections.
If you are watching this guide, you likely already completed these steps and are now stuck with the alternator in place. Here’s how you can remove it: start by taking out the 10mm bolt to move the AC line. Be cautious with the low-pressure AC line to avoid damaging it. Then, slide the power steering reservoir out of the way, followed by the radiator reservoir.
After moving these components, you can access the alternator and slide it out. It may require some maneuvering, but with patience and both hands, you should be able to remove it. Keep in mind that if your car has an engine cover at the bottom, it will also need to be removed. Once the alternator is out, you should inspect it for any signs of damage, such as oil leaks, as this can lead to burning out the alternator.
It’s essential to address any oil leaks to prevent future alternator issues. Even the best-quality replacement alternator will not resolve the problem if the root cause, such as an oil leak, is not fixed. In the case of the Honda Odyssey, a common issue is the oil ring gasket causing the oil leak from the reservoir to the pump.
Lastly, if you are unable to address the oil leak, you may find yourself repeatedly replacing the alternator. Therefore, it’s crucial to fix any underlying issues to ensure the alternator’s longevity. Follow these steps, and you’ll be able to replace the alternator in your 2012 Honda Odyssey successfully.