triplatte

I was wondering if anyone could give advice on removing an alternator for a 2004 RX330. 1) Specifically, once unbolted, does it come out from the top (and if so, what needs to be removed first?) or does the front passenger wheel need to be removed in order to jiggle it out from underneath the car, etc.? 2) What is the easiest and/or proper way to do it? 3) Also, once it's removed, is it recommended to replace any belts (if so, which one(s)?). 4) Any other maintenance to do while it's off? We had to bring it in to a Lexus certified repair shop to have some work done on it a couple of years ago and I seem to remember replacing at least one of the belts then but can't remember which one(s). Mileage is around 202,000. It's been a while since we've had to replace an alternator (last one was on the ES300 I had prior to the RX330). Thanks in advance!

Thank you both for the feedback. I appreciate it!

Hi, I was wondering if someone could tell me how much I should be paying at an independent Lexus-certified mechanic for a full brake job (front & rear including machining rotors)? I got one estimate of $190 for front, $185 for back (seems about right), and another shop told me they were unable to give a quote without looking at the car first. Not being able to give an estimate seemed odd to me and makes me wary, as my husband used to replace the brakes on my ES300 and you basically just need new pads & rotors, correct? My father actually taught me how to do basic maintenance on my cars--including changing my own brakes (knowledge which I have happily passed on to my husband so I don't have to get dirty anymore!! ^_^ ), and it ticks me off when I know mechanics are trying to take advantage because they think I don't know anything (I look like a girly-girl!). I'm in Fort Worth...any suggestions?

I am located in Fort Worth, TX and I have head over the years that there are certified Lexus technicians who have formed groups to provide a less expensive alternative to the pricey dealership repairs. Is this true, and if so, can anyone recommend a group and/or Lexus-certified technician in my area (Fort Worth)? I have a 2004 RX330. I have been leery about doing this in the past, but after I was quoted $1,500 on a repair at the dealership that just didn't make sense, I am fed up! Help! Any suggestions would be appreciated!