How do you replace the alternator on a 2003 VW Jetta TDI?

- review the Haynes or Bentley manual to orientate the parts

- Disconnect battery negative cable,

- Remove engine cover,

- loosen passenger side front wheel

- raise vehicle passenger front, set on stand , remove wheel,

- remove the electrical connections from the alternator, including the small nut which holds the wires to the alternator body.

- mark the belt direction with a crayon

- from underneath vehicle, release tension on belt by, using a 5/8" wrench and an extension, remove belt,

- remove the three 13mm bolts for the tensioner assembly. remove tensioner,( it may fall through to the bottom of the vehicle.

- loosen the two 13mm bolts holding the alternator

- Loosen the clamp and pull free the coolant hose next to the alternator, there will be some coolant loss, so have a rag handy

- place a rag under work area and remove the oil pressure indicator wire and switch from the side of the oil filter bracket. Pull wire aside

- from the top of vehicle, wiggle the alternator from its bracket. This may take some effort, as it is securely in place. From the bottom of the vehicle, with a screwdriver, you may be able to get it started by prying a small screwdriver between the alternator body an engine. Be careful, do not force too much. Forcing unevenly may jam the unit, requiring a start over.

- Once sufficiently loose, from the top of the compartment, slowly work the unit towards the oil filter bracket. Twist and turn unit pass the A/C hose. With patience it will come out.

- Install is reverse of above, put some grease in the bracket areas beforehand to help slide new unit in place.