The Nissan Maxima alternator is located in the engine compartment along the belt path. The alternator is at the bottom of the engine and can be removed quickly and without complications. Once the belt is removed the alternator can be taken off the engine. In some cases it is hard to determine if the alternator is bad or the battery has gotten weak. Have the alternator tested before replacing or removing.
Open the hood to access the battery. Disconnect the battery by unbolting the positive and negative terminals with a socket wrench. Pull the cables away from the battery.
Locate the alternator at the bottom of the engine toward the right. The front of the engine is facing toward the passenger side.
Unscrew the tensioning screw under the alternator with a socket wrench. Allow the alternator to lower. The belt will loosen as you turn this screw. Pull the belt off the pulley.
Pry the clip with the wiring harness running through it with a flat tip screwdriver. Unclip the wiring harness from the back of the alternator. The connector has a locking tab that needs to be lifted up and pulled away from the alternator.
Unscrew the nut on the stud with the second wire attached, with a socket wrench. Pull the wire off the stud. Screw the nut back on the nut by hand to prevent loosing the nut.
Unbolt the two bolts securing the alternator in place. One bolt is found at the top and one at the bottom. Unscrew with a socket wrench.
Allow the alternator to fall to the ground. It is easier than pulling it up through the engine compartment.
Pull the alternator out from under the car. Close the hood.
