How to Change an Alternator in an 2001 Audi A4


1. Open the engine compartment and disconnect the negative battery cable using a wrench to loosen the terminal nut. On some automobiles, you may have to remove the cooling duct to get to the alternator. If you model is one of these, then you can remove the air ducts using a screwdriver to remove the clamps.
2. Unplug the alternator wiring harness and then remove the other wires using a wrench to remove the nuts. Loosen the mounting bolts on the alternator with a ratchet and socket. Push the alternator to the side and remove the serpentine belt from the alternator only.
3. Remove the alternator mounting bolts using a socket and ratchet and pull the alternator out of the vehicle.
4. Put the new alternator in place and loosely install the mounting bolts. Place the serpentine belt back on the alternator pulley and tighten the alternator mounting bolts with the socket and ratchet. Plug the alternator wiring harness in and then connect the other electrical wires. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts.
5. If you had to remove the air ducts to access the alternator, replace them and tighten the clamps with the screwdriver. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the nut with a wrench.