Alternator/Brake Lights On

[dlduscg]

Alternator and brake lights came on simultaneously. Probably due to alternator failure but before I rush to replace the alternator what else can cause this problem, if anything? The battery is only one year old, and I understand possibly a harness connector. I am in need of a new alternator connector, but is there anything else, and should I replace with an OEM Nissan or aftermarket alternator. If aftermarket, which one please.

[Q451990]

Most parts stores like AutoZone or Advance Auto can do a quick check to tell you if the alternator is charging.

If you have a multimeter, you can check the voltage at the battery. At idle you should see about 14.2 volts.

I would strongly recommend an OEM alternator, after having gone through a fiasco thinking I had bought a Hitachi reman, only to have it fail a few days later and find that it was not. If you can get a confirmed Hitachi remanufactured alternator from a reputable source (not from a guy who had a spare in his closet like I did ) then that's the only non-OEM alternative I would consider.

Heath