12317550968 Alternator 180 Amp 12V for BMW 128i 323i 328i 328xi 330i 528i 528xi X3 X5
12317550968 Alternator 180 Amp 12V for BMW 128i 323i 328i 328xi 330i 528i 528xi X3 X5
12317550968 Alternator, 180 Amp 12V, for BMW 128i, 328i, 528i, X3 and X5 3.0L
This 12317550968 alternator is a 180-amp, 12-volt unit with a 6-groove clutch pulley, listed by the supplier for BMW inline-six models from 2006 to 2013, including the 128i, 323i, 328i, 328xi, 330i, 528i, 528xi, X3 and X5. It rotates clockwise and has an internal regulator and internal fan. Easy Life Markets sells it as one alternator, with the pulley fitted as the photos show.
These cars carry a lot of electronics, and all of it depends on the alternator keeping the battery charged. That makes a healthy unit, and a pulley that freewheels properly, more important than on an older, simpler car. If you would like to read how an alternator turns rotation into current, the linked article is a good place to start.
Package
- 1 x alternator
Mounting bolts, belt and instructions are not listed.
Specifications
- Unit type: Alternator
- Amperage: 180A
- Voltage: 12V
- Rotation: CW (clockwise)
- Pulley: 6-groove clutch pulley, 49 mm rib outside diameter
- Pulley type: SC6
- Regulator: IR (internal)
- Fan type: IF (internal)
- Brand: Unbranded
- Reference numbers: 12317550968, 12317551254, 12317555926, 7550967, 7551256, 755125607, 0121715012, 0121715112, 063537151120, 11300, 11301N
- SKU: CJQT283481701AZ
Models the Supplier Lists
BMW cars
- 128i, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2008-2013
- 323i, L6 2.5L 2497cc, 2007-2009
- 328i, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2007-2013
- 328i xDrive, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2009-2013
- 328xi, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2007-2008
- 330i and 330xi, L6 3.0L 2996cc N52, 2006
- 528i, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2008-2010
- 528i xDrive, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2009-2010
- 528xi, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2008
BMW SUVs
- X3, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2007-2010
- X5, L6 3.0L 2996cc, 2007-2008
The 2006 330i: Check Which Engine You Have
For 2006 the supplier names the N52 engine on the 330i and 330xi lines. That detail is there for a reason. The supplier of our 120A unit, reference 12317510599, lists 2006 330i models with the M54 engine. So a 2006 3.0 litre BMW could need either part, depending on the engine and body. Do not choose between them by model year. Read the number on the alternator that is on the car.
Confirming the Match
- Part number. Look for 12317550968 or one of the other references on the label of your existing unit. Some labels show only the last seven digits, such as 7550967 or 7551256.
- Rating. The label should read 180A.
- Pulley. Count six grooves and measure across the ribbed section. The supplier gives 49 mm.
- VIN. Enter the last seven characters in a BMW parts catalogue, or send them to us and we will compare the result with this listing.
About the Clutch Pulley
The pulley contains a one-way clutch. It drives the rotor when the belt pulls and lets the rotor coast when the engine slows suddenly, which protects the belt and tensioner from shock. You can test the pulley on an old unit with the belt off: hold the rotor still through the vents and turn the pulley by hand. It should turn freely one way and lock the other. A pulley that locks both ways or spins both ways is worn out. Because this unit arrives with its pulley fitted, you do not need a special pulley tool for the swap.
How Failure Usually Shows Itself
- A red battery symbol or a charging fault message on the dash
- An "increased battery discharge" warning when the car is parked
- Electrical features switching off one by one to save power
- Belt chirp or rattle at idle, often from the clutch pulley
- A rumbling bearing noise that rises with engine speed
An old battery causes several of these as well. Test the battery and measure the charging voltage before ordering parts.
Notes for the Installer
- Disconnect the battery negative lead. On many of these cars the battery is in the boot.
- Remove whatever intake parts block access, then release the belt tensioner and slide the belt off.
- Unplug the connector, remove the main cable from its stud and undo the mounting bolts.
- Compare the old and new units, fit the new one and tighten to the figures in the BMW service manual.
- Refit the belt and intake parts, reconnect the battery and check the charging voltage.
If a new battery is fitted at the same time, many of these cars need it registered with a diagnostic tool so the charging system treats it correctly. A BMW specialist can do both jobs in one visit, and we recommend professional fitting if you are unsure.
Who This Unit Is For
Owners of the listed six-cylinder BMWs who have matched the part number, and independent workshops that want a complete alternator with clutch pulley attached.
Common Questions
Is the 12317550968 alternator a genuine BMW part? No. It is an unbranded aftermarket unit, and the BMW numbers are cross-references.
Will it suit the 335i or other turbocharged models? They are not in the supplier's list.
What does "49 mm rib OD" mean? It is the outside diameter of the grooved part of the pulley, as given by the supplier.
Can I fit this in place of a lower-rated alternator? Go by the part number on your existing unit. If it is not one of the references listed above, check with your VIN before ordering.
Buy the 12317550968 Alternator at Easy Life Markets
You can order the 12317550968 alternator here. The current price and availability are shown on this page. Please read our return and refund policy before buying.
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