2001 Maxima GLE: Got the brake light and battery light on. Made it to an O'Reilly's and change the battery which had a date of 11/2017 on it. However, still getting the brake light and battery light on.

Reading the forum, this appears to be bad alternator as culprit. A couple quick questions:

1. Best place to get new alternator? (Rockauto? Nissanpartsdeal?) Would like something OEM (Hitachi?)

2. How hard is this replacement job?

3. Should I also replace the serpentine belt? Any other "while you are there" things to change out?

I'm starting to think the car is ready to go. Such a shame cuz I just changed the rear valve cover gasket, intake manifold gasket, throttle body gasket, spark plugs and a couple other things last November.

 

If you want OEM, then Nissanpartsdeal is probably your most cost effective option.
I've used Rockauto Alternator on my VQ35 Patfinder with no issue over the past 2 years with it, I think it was a new SKP.

Its a pretty straightforward install.. You'll need access above and below the alternator. Top bolt and Positive termal connections are easy. For the long mounting bolt, you need to unbolt the belt tensioner assy and the compressor (can leave AC charged, just support the compressor while you move it out of the way) to get in there.

Alternator belt and PS belt are good to do while you're in there.

These cars are getting older and all the parts you replaced are wear items. Its another story once you get into major rust and internal engine trans issues.

 

Whatever you decide, be sure a LLT is included.

A few years ago, I replaced my ‘99’s alternator with a Duralast from Autozone … no issues to date.

 

If you do buy from a general auto parts store, make them bench test it twice before you leave with it. Ive been burned a couple times by not doing that.

 

Thanks to all for the replies. I'm getting on with age (and bad knees), and I would be doing this under my shade tree (and limited tools that I have). So, I decided to have someone come out and do the replacement (yourmechanic.com) who I have had come out and do some other items on another car I have before. So at least if the alternator goes out within the first 12 months (or 12,000 miles), the warranty covers replacement.

I've done so much to this car over the past couple years (valve cover gaskets front/rear, radiator (twice!!), radiator hoses, vacuum hoses, power steering line, etc, etc..) that I just want to keep driving her.

 

Alternator replaced. Now I have a new issue. Will start another thread.