The cost to replace the alternator on a 2012 Subaru Forester generally ranges from about $140–$260 for a remanufactured or aftermarket unit, $350–$650 for a new OEM unit, with labor adding roughly $100–$300. This puts the total installed price roughly between $240 and $900, depending on part choice and local labor rates.
For readers seeking a quick answer and a clearer breakdown, this article also explains what drives those prices, where to buy, and how to budget for a replacement on the Forester’s 2012 model year. The Forester’s alternator price can vary based on whether you buy a rebuilt, aftermarket, or dealer-part, and whether you handle installation yourself or hire a shop.
Part options and price ranges
Prices for the part itself vary widely by source, condition, and warranty. The following are common options and typical ranges you might see when shopping online or at auto parts retailers.
- Remanufactured or aftermarket replacement: typically $120–$260
- New OEM Subaru replacement (dealer or OEM-verified): typically $350–$650
- Used, salvage-rebuilt, or core-exchange replacements: typically $80–$200
Note: Many new replacements include a core charge that is refunded when you return your old unit. Warranty terms also vary by source, with remanufactured units often carrying a 1–3 year warranty depending on vendor.
Labor costs and total installed price
Installation costs depend on the shop, location, and whether other issues (like belt tensioners or electrical tests) are involved. The following factors commonly affect the total bill.
- Time to replace: typically 1–2 hours (some vehicles or tricky access can run 2–3 hours)
- Labor rate: roughly $75–$150 per hour, varying by region and whether you go through a dealer or independent shop
- Installed price range (part + labor): generally about $300–$900, with remanufactured parts on the lower end and OEM replacements on the higher end
In high-cost areas or when additional parts/services are needed (belt replacement, electrical tests, or battery replacement), the price can rise toward the upper end of the range.
What to consider when buying
Before purchasing, consider warranty terms, core charges, and your preferred supplier. OEM parts may offer longer warranties but come at a higher price, while remanufactured or aftermarket units can save money but vary in warranty coverage. If you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, obtaining a written quote that includes labor and potential extra costs is advisable.
Additional notes on reliability and vehicle health
In some Foresters from this era, electrical system health can affect battery readiness and charging. If a new alternator is installed but the battery or wiring is compromised, you may see recurring charging faults. A diagnostic check or battery load test is wise before and after replacement to ensure the system is functioning correctly.
Summary
For a 2012 Subaru Forester, expect the part cost to range roughly from $80 to $650 depending on condition and source, with the majority of everyday replacements falling between $120 and $260 for remanufactured units or $350–$650 for new OEM parts. Labor adds about $100–$300, bringing total installed costs commonly into the $240–$900 range. Always compare warranties, core charges, and regional labor rates, and consider a diagnostic check to confirm there are no additional charging system issues.