Where is the alternator on a Lexus RX 350?

The alternator on most Lexus RX 350 models is located on the front of the engine, on the passenger side, and is driven by the serpentine belt.

In practice, this means you’ll find the alternator tucked toward the right-hand side of the engine bay (as you face the car), near the main belt path and usually close to the power steering pump. The exact mounting point can vary a bit by model year, but the general location remains consistent across generations of the RX 350 with the 3.5-liter V6 (2GR-FE). Open the hood and you should be able to spot a cylindrical component with a belt-driven pulley and an electrical connector.

Where to look in the engine bay

To quickly identify the alternator, use these visual cues and a belt-following approach.

• The alternator is a belt-driven unit with a pulley that the serpentine belt turns. It typically has a single large electrical connector on the back or side and an output terminal on the housing.


• In most RX 350 configurations, it sits near the front-right (passenger) side of the engine bay, close to the power steering pump and the main belt routing.


• Look for a component that is cylindrical in shape with cooling vents and a noticeable electrical connector, not the smaller starter motor or the water pump.


• Some models may have a protective cover or shield around the belt area; you may only need to remove a small piece of shielding to gain access for inspection or replacement.

These cues help you quickly confirm the alternator’s location without disassembling major engine components.

How to identify and access the alternator

Use this practical guide to pinpoint the alternator and prepare for any basic maintenance or replacement steps.

• Follow the serpentine belt from the drive belt tensioner toward the engine bay until you reach a pulley that has an electrical connector and a larger housing than the other pulleys.


• Confirm it’s the alternator by noting the presence of a DC output terminal and an electrical plug on the back or side of the unit.


• Check the orientation: in most RX 350 models, the alternator’s shaft points toward the front or top of the engine, with the cooling vents running along its body.


• When performing any inspection or replacement, disconnect the negative battery terminal and ensure the engine is off before touching electrical connections or belt components.

By following these steps, you can reliably locate and verify the alternator in your RX 350 and proceed with routine checks or maintenance as needed.

Additional notes and care tips

Understanding the location helps with diagnostics such as belt wear, charging issues, or noise from the belt area. If you notice dimming lights, a dead battery, or a dashboard charging warning, a quick visual check of the alternator area can save time before pulling the car into a shop. For precise service procedures, consult the specific year’s owner’s manual or a Lexus service manual, as mounting hardware and belt routing can vary by model year and trim.

Summary

On the Lexus RX 350, the alternator is typically mounted on the front of the engine on the passenger side, driven by the serpentine belt and accessible from the engine bay’s right side. Look for a belt-driven, cylindrical unit with a back-side electrical connector near the power steering pump. Use the belt path as your guide, and ensure the battery is disconnected before performing any inspection or work.

Where is the alternator located?

The alternator is usually located at the front of the engine, mounted to the side and driven by the serpentine belt. To find it, you can look for this belt and follow it to a component that is often grey or silver and has a pulley. On some newer or more tightly packed engines, it might be more difficult to see and could be located towards the bottom or deeper within the engine bay.
 
How to find the alternator

• Look for the serpentine belt: Find the long, ridged belt that wraps around several pulleys on the front of the engine, says this YouTube video. 
• Follow the belt: The alternator is one of the pulleys that the serpentine belt is attached to. It's often bolted to the side of the engine block. 
• Identify its appearance: An alternator is typically a cylindrical or rectangular component, often grey or silver, with a pulley on one side and electrical connectors on the back. 
• Consider other locations: If you still can't see it, it may be located lower down on the engine, or it might be partially hidden and require removal of other components like the air intake hose to gain access, note this YouTube video and this Facebook video. 

How long does an alternator last on a Lexus RX 350?

Alternators usually last for about 80,000 to 150,000 miles, or at least 7 to 10 years.

How much does it cost to replace an alternator on a Lexus RX350?

The average cost to replace a Lexus RX 350 alternator is between $750 and $1,500, with prices varying significantly depending on the model year, parts, and labor. Parts costs alone can range from about $200 to over $600 for new or remanufactured alternators, while labor can add hundreds of dollars more. 
You can watch this video to see a step-by-step guide on replacing the alternator: 59sMerryfranksterYouTube · Sep 3, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Parts: The cost of the alternator itself can range from approximately $200 to $650 or more, depending on whether it is a new, remanufactured, or OEM part and the brand. Some Lexus OEM alternators have an MSRP of around $340, but the final dealer price may be higher. 
• Labor: Professional labor costs vary based on the shop's rates and the specific model year. Estimates for labor alone can range from about $250 to $500 or more. 
• Total: The total cost is a combination of parts and labor. 
  • Older models: For example, a 2007 RX 350 may cost around $950 to $1,550. 
  • Newer models: Newer models like the 2018-2020 RX 350 might cost between $1,050 and $1,500. 
  • Higher-end estimates: Some dealership quotes can be higher, potentially reaching over $2,300, especially for newer models. 

What year to stay away from Lexus RX 350?

Years to avoid for the Lexus RX 350 include 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 due to common problems like oil leaks, engine issues, brake failures, and faulty sensors. The 2010-2012 models are particularly prone to a ruptured oil cooler line that can cause engine failure, while the 2007-2009 models had issues with cracking dashboards and a faulty brake master cylinder. The 2016 and 2017 models saw recalls related to airbags and issues with rain sensors, notes CoPilot.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Lexus RX 350 and common problems in different generations: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 22, 2024
Years to avoid and why

• 2007–2009: These models are known for cracking dashboards and a faulty brake master cylinder that can lead to brake failure. 
• 2010–2012: A common and severe problem with these years is the oil cooler line, which can rupture and lead to engine failure. 
• 2016–2017: The 2016 model year had airbag recalls and was the first year of a new generation, which can lead to early bugs. The 2017 model had issues with the rain sensor and wipers, in addition to having its own airbag recalls. 

What to look for instead

• 2011–2015: These models generally have fewer issues, with the 2013–2015 models in particular being noted as more reliable. 
• 2018–2022: Models from these years are considered more reliable, especially those with the redesigned exterior. 
• 2020–2022: These are considered among the most reliable years, with the 2020 model year being a good choice. 

This video discusses the best Lexus RX 350 years to buy: 59sThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024