Hello Everyone,

I have a 2001 Lexus RX300, I recently replaced the alternator with one bought from Autozone, the car was running fine and then it stopped. I tried restarting it and the engine started but the dashboard lights, the gauges, and all the accessories were not working. I checked the fuse box and found that I had the 140 amp alternator fuse blown. Tried replacing it 2 times and when trying to put back the negative terminal, it generates sparks and then the fuse blows.
Is it possible that the alternator (or the voltage regulator) is bad? Should I go back to Autozone and replace it?
Is it possible that I have a short circuit somewhere? Where to check?

Please help!

Thanks!
Sid

 

Disconnect the alternator completely and try a new fuse, I'm betting you got a junk alternator from Autozone which is very common. Buy a Denso instead.

 

Thank you so much for your reply LeX2K. I will take it back to Autozone and try to get it replaced.