In this video I have a look at a lady's 2009 Scion xA that she dropped off because the engine light was flashing and then all of a sudden the battery light came on too. Are the problems related? Well....kind of.
-Enjoy!
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97 thoughts on “Scion xd: a misfire killed the alternator!?”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Aaron Johnson says:

    That was nice of the customer to leap for the entire alternator. She said the same for the decoupling pulley just like you did, “ain’t nobody got time for that”

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars nitrous07me says:

    What about the “Maintence required” light? No time for an oil change Eric?😅

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars darkwing4 says:

    With that many miles, the slip ring brushes were probably almost used up anyway,,, I think replacement was justified,,, 🙂

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mark Wheeler says:

    Eric, you're always addressing your comments to "you fellows" or "you guys." What ever happened with Miss Hannah and Miss Marie?

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matwe69 says:

    Lol switching the altinator pulley and sending it back 🤣 that would be some sly shit 🤣

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars TurboFlush says:

    I didn't know that existed. A clutched alternator. Hmm

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Captain Morgan says:

    You are a good man sir.

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jimmyqballs says:

    Shame Toyota stopped making Scions. They were good reliable cars for a younger generation

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lasse Kviesgaard says:

    It all comes to what kind of money the costumer wants to pay and how long they want to keep the car. Personally I’d just change the pulley

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Extra Steez says:

    mr O do you tighten the belt tension to that spec whenever you remove and install the belt or do you only do that when its a new belt. because when I work on that drive system i just mark the bolt with a paint marker then return it back to original spot… just curious of reasoning. only thing I could think of is the new belt isn't going to have as much stretch

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Leigh Pike says:

    Had a failed alternator on a Mazda tribute, client wanted a second hand one to replace it, so I asked my son to get it from his local pick a part, same sort of place as Wilberts.
    He thought he wouldn't have to much trouble, not realising that it was between the firewall and the block just above the suspension and the car was on the ground, by the time he got it out the place had closed and everyone had gone, gates locked and guard dogs loose….oops.

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Steve Perrett says:

    good move new alternator with that mileage

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeb common says:

    Great video, your knowledgeable and efficient. Awsome that you worked late to get the vehicle back to them quickly.

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John Schuler says:

    Based on my own experience / observation around aircraft … where PREVENTION is the name of the game … perhaps everyone is better off when ALL 4 Coils are replaced when ONE FAILS. Esp. on an in-line 4 where it is only MINUTES to CHANGE all of them.

    In my own case, I REPLACED (all 6) Coils (with OEM parts) on my Toyota / Lexus SUV … along with the "mandatory" (all 6) iridium plugs change-out … at the 120K service.

    The dealers love to just ignore the coils and then come back and change each coil as it fails … one-at-a-time; $700 for each rear coil. And $400 for each front coil. Ditto the alternator at high mileage. BTW … I AGREE with the Lady … change that ANCIENT ALTERNATOR, too!
    John in the NW

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tim morris says:

    why do they have a key lanyard with anus written on it ? 🤣

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dave J says:

    Sods law.
    You'd have changed the decoupler pulley and the car would be back for an alternator a short time later.
    Long term you've probably saved the lady money and fair play to her for making a wise decision 👏

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars DIY Misfit "Not_a_Mechanic" says:

    Won't be long before your cricket shows up, to keep you company while working late. He'll serenade you for a couple hours before you go home.

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars William T. Musil says:

    Hiya Eric

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Brad Klingensmith says:

    You're a good man Mr O.

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars haleysdad2004 says:

    Nothing like a little lube, wiggling, and feeling. 😂

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mice InOz says:

    Nah, change the alternator as 'some guy' has poked something sharp into the rotating stuff😊 Nice of you to work late to look after your customers. Customer service is getting pretty thin on the ground these days.

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Gary Conrad says:

    I like the way you set to music what you are really thinking.

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mel Meter says:

    short and sweet…………very cool! no distractions either. miss those old videos you took things apart to find out why they failed but time is money.

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Xombi Xombi says:

    246k on a yoda at 23 years and a problem again a year later. Sounds like a lemon law case for Duewe ,Cheatem and Howe. . Seriously, we should all be so fortunate. On the lady's side if you really need to rent a car, the going rate is over $100 a day. If cars are available, and they lie about that. . Will an aftermarket overrunning clutch match up and work? Eric has the part, the correct part to solve it in hand. Back to school time and sales to be at. good vid thanks.

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars vborg001 says:

    Awesome job!!

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lert Somboon says:

    Is it possible for a refreshment class video on how to delete your hard drive from your computer? 🙂

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars mannys9130 says:

    Proud of my Toyotas. 💪😎 So simple. The Nissan was miserable.

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Spc. Callahan says:

    Parts cannon 🪖

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Len in MI says:

    Kinda makes me glad I jumped ship in the late eighties. It's no longer fun to work on vehicles. Just a PITA now .

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BUTTABALLA999 says:

    Nicely done! An alternator swap is one of few jobs I've done, and it definitely felt like worming the alternator in/out of the engine bay was one of the toughest parts. Either that or getting my ratchet trapped between a bolt I was loosening and the wall of the e bay. I'll learn someday… hopefully! Thanks for the video.

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daniel Ventura says:

    Oy, Transverse engines and serpentine belts.. I miss the old days when everything was accessible and easy to change…Once I replaced the fan clutch on my Thunderbird 429, replaced the radiator and serviced the carburetor all in one day. Overheating with the a/c on, and sticking float problems solved. 1970 cars were so much easier. Vacuum lines were a weekend job.

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike says:

    A lightly torqued nut gets a Snugga Dugga !….

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars kerzwhile says:

    Your the best.. Period! 😉

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars david mueller says:

    Your patience is most commendable !

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Iron Golem says:

    Sprag clutch

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Shames AlRayyees says:

    Can you please open the alternator and show us what is the problem… just for knowledge

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rodeo Bob says:

    If it makes you feel any better Eric, it’s late at night and I’m working also😂Thanks for working over and making a video.👍🏻

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bob Barron says:

    These are the peak earning months for us tradesmen. Good to see you cranking those jobs out, and thanks for sharing while you do. My remodeling business has me working long days this summer.
    I own a number of DeWalt cordless tools, I wonder what Eric's experience has been with the DeWalt ratchet?

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars konstantinus Stoyanov says:

    I would not check for sure alternator internal movement, awesome

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jay Sosa says:

    Usually when the bolt goes in they gasp if they don’t pull out back out cut your losses and go home 😂 I’m sorry I couldn’t help it great video as always

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alexander McKay says:

    Ahhh, at that mileage replacing the alt is the better option. She's doing hwy miles in that thing and it's due. Of course I would've done all 4 coils at the time, but that's just me.

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Stapleford Railway Stapleford says:

    My 2006 kia Sportage 2.0 CRDI gen2 had a new LUC dual mass flywheel fitted (at my request) when the car had a new clutch at 70 k miles 5 yrs ago
    16 months an 5 k miles later the DMF fell apart Kia were not interested so local indi removed and replaced LUC said it was more than likely due to a misfire but no warranty Been ok since

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars randy bash says:

    My alternator for my compass was sparking when it got changed out everything inside it looked melted

  44. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars whoak302 says:

    The after hours video felt way different and I enjoyed it a lot, but with 3 littles and a wife at home I know how important family time is, so I will look forward to more business hours videos! Thanks for the great instruction, video's, and you being you!

  45. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike Perth says:

    good work, well done

  46. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars TommioRS says:

    By far my wildest alternator CEL was on a 2003 WRX. It kept throwing a P0303, the customer did plugs and all coil packs but the car still has this P0303. Car ran like a top just this never ending CEL. So i got wise and checked the timing on the engine. Took off the t belt covers, front crank pulley and the drive belts. I did this because i have seen many a time some home gamer tech would do a t belt and break off a tooth on the center crank trigger and the car would run real funny lol. All looked good but just by chance i started the car up to see whats what. Well! starting the car up with no drive belts was a good thing! The CEL was gone because the alternator was not spinning! So i replaced the alternator and the car was happy! I knew something was very fishy before all this because when clearing the CEL then starting the car the CEL returned instantly and did not care about drive cycles or engine performance.

    Turns out according the Subaru Canada at the time this was sort of a "thing"

  47. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars sirboom says:

    Tell TeeSpring I want my money back for the crap SMA t-shirt they sold me that didn't last a single wash. And stop deleting my comments about it! They don't seem to respond to any inquiries. Maybe you will do the right thing. Deleting my comments isn't the right thing. Don't steal my money!

  48. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars RJM says:

    Service data procedure for removing alternator: 1. Remove engine. 🤪

  49. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bruce Meinsen says:

    Try a starter for a Lexus LS400. It's under the intake manifold.

  50. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ian Zulick says:

    250k miles wow

  51. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Yawwee Shalimar says:

    Sure was nice for that alternator to come out without disassembling the motor, brackets, arms, belts, and coolant lines !!!! Slipped out and in easily – nice !!!! Plug #3 was misfiring, so it was either the plug or the coil or both, I would have changed both to be safe. And a new belt was good for all them miles on it and some piece of it wiggling around. Customer knows the value of having your car working, and not broke down – put on a new part, don't gamble with the old stuff. Job well done Eric !!! Another satisfied customer spreading your trustworthiness at SMA !!!!!! When do we get a video of Mrs. O. at work dealing with the drop off and pick up customers and how she answers repair questions ??? A look into customer relations and the paperwork side of SMA !!!!!! Ready for the next video if the cars are three deep !!!!!! 🚙🚘🛻

  52. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars TheSiliconSoul says:

    Now for another edition of things you don't want to hear from your mechanic, "That's kind of bizarre, huh?"

    Love your videos as always. Thank you!

  53. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chavez496 says:

    And Meow…..love it!!!!!!

  54. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Brian Kraska says:

    The difference between other shops and Eric, is when Eric fires the parts cannon, he only needs one bullet to hit a bullseye.

  55. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Thatdave says:

    When the Lady says Do it, what's a fella to do ?
    You Do it 😂😂😂
    Something new learnt ,didn't know about the decoupling pulley , again more knowledge learnt from the school of Eric O 🤗
    Cheers

  56. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John Gardner says:

    I think that you did it the right way,…as the customer wanted.
    Being down to 1 vehicle,it would ease things ,for them in the long run.
    WELL DONE!
    (I've done gas/diesel repairs for 48 yrs, and there are times such things must be done!)

  57. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Craig Smith says:

    Wow! A torque converter on the alternator.

  58. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Trent Hager says:

    I had one of those pulleys fail on my dodge journey, I just tac welded the pulley and coupler and it works.

  59. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Richard Smith says:

    Does anyone call you Sparky?

  60. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kernel Johnson says:

    Parts cannon for the win 🏆

  61. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Oscar Jones says:

    I like these night time videos better too. Eric seems happier and I enjoy the no distractions

  62. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Eli T says:

    Holy smokes that unit has more miles than the space shuttle@!

  63. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Oscar Jones says:

    I really appreciate Eric’s honesty and methods regarding parts and perhaps swapping a coupler/pulley around. Coming from a Parts Pro at AA, I would totally support this

  64. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars James Hedrick says:

    I would have replaced the alternator too

  65. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Katz says:

    246000 miles in A 2009 vehicle. That's a lot of driving.

  66. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Oscar Jones says:

    Jiggly bits?? Ray????

  67. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Oscar Jones says:

    He did it! He did it! Parts cannon!! 😁😁

  68. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Otis says:

    …may as well install a new decoupler on O.G. 'Nader and put it in a box in the corner of the trunk. It will come in handy when the Aftermarket unit fails next month.

  69. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Harrison says:

    No gloves. Meat nuggets looked fine.

  70. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Curtis Gomes says:

    246K miles on this little New York Toyota and the alternator decoupler gives out. This is why people buy these cars in the first place.

  71. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Anthony LaFata Jr says:

    But you man a Lady happy today! It suck being down a car. It sick’s more when your mini van is down and you have to fit 2 adults and 3 kids in a Honda Accord.

  72. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars bobgsmith says:

    Great work as always.

  73. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Slingbart says:

    change all the coils

  74. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Edwin Semidey says:

    Why didn't you recommend 2 new ignition coils

  75. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars joe worley says:

    The D coupling pulley is amazing technology. When you come across aftermarket alternators they do not use them always. I would stress to use OE quality.

  76. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Fjord Driver says:

    I was 99% sure it was the wiper blades. Huh….damn if that wasn't a surprise.

  77. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Don Weathersbee says:

    I’ve figured it out. Most Mechanics already talk to theirselves while working on vehicles. They mostly talk about the engineers that design sometime garbage that’s sprung on the public but, the engineers don’t have to get their hands dirty (if they fit) into replacing failed parts. Videos came along then YouTube, a perfect union. The good mechanics can share their knowledge, experience and frustrations with others. Thanks for sharing your mechanical talents and knowledge, with the rest of us.

  78. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Shuken Flash says:

    Sometimes it's worth slapping a cheap part like a coil in to see if it fixes it, because it's cheap enough to risk having to eat the cost for the time savings. And sometimes you're willing to spend some extra money to get the car back quicker. Maybe one of them has to miss work with only 1 car and it's cheaper for them to spend the extra and get it back than miss another day of work, that's how it is for me. Plus, now they're got a whole new alternator so they shouldn't have to worry about the rest of it going out any time soon.

  79. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars watajob says:

    That's the story of my life: an inch short! Don't apologize or feel guilty. Part of your diagnostics skills is a thing called experience.

  80. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chi Chu says:

    Wow,246 somethings miles on the Odometer.She got her moneys worth on this car..

  81. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars vincent birr says:

    Just a thought a misfire probably would not wreck an alternator but a on functioning alternator could cause the coil to fail due to higher amp demand (low voltage)

  82. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeff Jankiewicz says:

    Well Lady, you got it. New coil and alternator. No issues, There ya go Lady, Problems solved!

  83. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars whitenight369 says:

    Well… Too late.

  84. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daniel Geng says:

    Thanks Eric, I know you get a butt load of comments but if you happen to see this one, thanks for the educational and entertaining content~

  85. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chris W says:

    What brand belt tension gauge was that? Time to upgrade from my ancient clicker styles 😂

  86. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jim Vet says:

    she got more than her money's worth in how you did the turn around for her.
    Awesome job boss. May The LORD GOD Jesus Christ Bless you and yours,
    The business, the lovely MRS.O and your children and extended family. can I get a
    witness on that. Jesus is in the business of saving souls, and your in the business of doing
    for others that are unable to do for them selves. There is a lot of sacrifice in volved when it
    comes to mending other people's problems.

  87. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Don Johnson says:

    Wait, according to the internet Toyotas "NEVER BREAK'?????

  88. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Larry Verriden says:

    I watched your video at Playback Speed x2 so that you could get home sooner. 🙂

  89. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars The Old Man of Tech! says:

    I so remember back in the 70s and 80s working on cars where you actually had a bit of space to put parts in and take them out. Now guys like Eric O. damn near have to be Olympic gymnasts to install replacement parts. Great job Sir. I would have thrown a wrench at it and went on home. 😆.

  90. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Charleton Zimmerman says:

    When you said, "FEEL" when it's IN I just about choked on my coffee laughing so hard!

  91. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ron watson says:

    Another ringer! Have a great weekend and thanks.

  92. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Big Blue says:

    Ya sounded a little tired in this one.

  93. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Paul Cattapan says:

    Interesting lanyard when you jumped in.😁

  94. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kevin Fenwick says:

    Your my hero! And if you load the cannon your 99.9% correct with 250,000 no questions asked .

  95. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rob Peabo says:

    It can be a tough call. I have no doubt the OEM alternator is far superior to an aftermarket one, though that particular OEM unit has been there a long time, and an OEM new one would be cost prohibitive I would imagine, unless the car has a lot of service life of course. Either way, the car is now repaired,

  96. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Troy Built says:

    We haven't had much luck getting the pulleys for a while now. I know a couple of shops that started having the techs come in between 5 and 6 am. They get a lot more done and avoid a lot of the heat. The downside being you aren't getting any parts until 8am. At that mileage I would have changed the alternator if it was mine.

  97. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars South Main Auto Repair LLC says:

    I see several of you folks are asking about the purpose of the decoupling pulley on the alternator. Do a quick google search and you will find some good results from reputable sources.
    -Cheers 🍻

    Alternator pulleys are not so simple anymore. Many late-model vehicles are equipped with special pulleys that are engineered to reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) and extend the life of the alternator. An Overrunning Alternator Pulley (OAP) has a one-way clutch mechanism inside the hub that allows the belt to turn the alternator in one direction, but allows the alternator to “free wheel” and spin at its own speed when the engine suddenly decelerates.
    -Stolen from the internet

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