What Alternator Fits a 2016 Tesla Model S?
What decides alternator fit on the 2016 Tesla Model S, where to find your VIN, and how to replace it.
VinSnap does not have a verified alternator part number for the 2016 Tesla Model S yet. Which alternator fits depends on the engine, the amperage output, the pulley type and the electrical connector, so compare those on the part you are replacing. The 2016 Model S was built with 33 engine variants (), so the right alternator depends on which one yours has. The 17-character VIN is on the driver-side dashboard at the base of the windshield and on the sticker in the driver’s door jamb; it identifies the exact engine and trim.
Last updated: · Source: aftermarket parts catalogue (engines)
2016 Tesla Model S alternator: key facts
| Verified part number | None on file yet |
|---|---|
| Engine variants (2016) | 33, |
| Fit is decided by | The engine, the amperage output, the pulley type and the electrical connector |
| NHTSA recalls: electrical system | 3 of 10 for this model |
| DIY | Advanced DIY (test charging system first) |
Sources: aftermarket parts catalogue (engines), NHTSA recalls.
Alternator: what it does & when to replace it
The alternator charges the battery and powers the electrical system while the engine runs. Failure signs include a battery warning light, dimming or flickering lights, dead battery despite a recent replacement, a whining or grinding noise, or a burning-rubber smell. A failing alternator will eventually leave you stranded once the battery drains. Replacement is a moderate-to-advanced DIY job — access and serpentine-belt removal vary a lot by vehicle, and some require removing other components first. Have the charging system tested before replacing, since the battery or belt is sometimes the real culprit.
DIY difficulty: Advanced DIY (test charging system first). Always confirm the correct part for your exact build by VIN before buying.
Which engine does your 2016 Tesla Model S have?
The 2016 Tesla Model S was sold with 33 engine variants, and the correct alternator can differ between them. This is the single thing a year/make/model dropdown cannot tell you.
| Engine | Fuel | Cylinders | Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 85 367 hp | Electric | — | 2012–2016 |
| 85D AWD 376 hp | Electric | — | 2014–2016 |
| P85D AWD 700 hp | Electric | — | 2014–2016 |
| 60 385 hp | Electric | — | 2014–now |
| 85 385 hp | Electric | — | 2015–2016 |
| 70D AWD 334 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 85D AWD 421 hp | Electric | — | 2014–2016 |
| P85D AWD 772 hp | Electric | — | 2015–2016 |
| 70D AWD 525 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 85D AWD 525 hp | Electric | — | 2014–2016 |
| 85 388 hp | Electric | — | 2012–2016 |
| 70 388 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 70 320 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| P90D AWD 471 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| P90D AWD 540 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 90D AWD 422 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 75 388 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 75D AWD 525 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 60D AWD 525 hp | Electric | — | 2014–now |
| 60 388 hp | Electric | — | 2013–now |
| P100D AWD 772 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 60D AWD 334 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 60 320 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 75 320 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 75D AWD 333 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| 90D AWD 525 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 85D AWD 379 hp | Electric | — | 2014–2016 |
| P100D AWD 612 hp | Electric | — | 2016–now |
| P90D AWD 772 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 60 302 hp | Electric | — | 2014–now |
| 90 388 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
| 90 367 hp | Electric | — | 2012–2016 |
| P90D AWD 469 hp | Electric | — | 2015–now |
Engine variants catalogued for this model (parts catalogue), filtered to those built around 2016. We hold catalogued part numbers for the base engine only — decode your VIN and we resolve your exact engine, then the exact part. Full dimensions and specifications for this vehicle are on the 2016 Tesla Model S overview.
How to replace the alternator on a 2016 Tesla Model S
- 1Test the charging system first to confirm the alternator, not the battery or belt, is at fault.
- 2Disconnect the battery negative terminal, then release the serpentine belt from the alternator using the tensioner.
- 3Disconnect the alternator’s electrical connectors and main charging cable.
- 4Unbolt and remove the old alternator (you may need to remove other components for access).
- 5Fit the new alternator, reconnect wiring, refit the belt with correct routing, reconnect the battery, and confirm ~13.5–14.5V at idle.
⚠ Access and belt routing vary widely by vehicle — photograph the belt routing before removal.
These are general steps for the electrical category. Exact fastener locations, torque values, and the correct part number depend on your 2016 Tesla Model S’s build — confirm by VIN before you start.
Shop alternator for your 2016 Tesla Model S
Browse alternator listings from major marketplaces. Confirm fitment by VIN first — use VinSnap above to get the exact part number for your build before purchasing.
Find the exact alternator by VIN
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Decode my VIN →Frequently asked questions
What alternator fits a 2016 Tesla Model S?
VinSnap has no verified alternator part number for the 2016 Tesla Model S yet. Match on the engine, the amperage output, the pulley type and the electrical connector; the 17-character VIN is on the driver-side dashboard at the base of the windshield and on the sticker in the driver’s door jamb, and it pins down the engine and trim.
How often should the alternator on a 2016 Tesla Model S be replaced?
The alternator charges the battery and powers the electrical system while the engine runs. Failure signs include a battery warning light, dimming or flickering lights, dead battery despite a recent replacement, a whining or grinding noise, or a burning-rubber smell. VinSnap has no manufacturer-specific interval on file for the 2016 Tesla Model S; the owner’s manual has the official schedule.
Can I replace the alternator on a 2016 Tesla Model S myself?
Advanced DIY (test charging system first). Allow about 1–3 hours. Tools: socket set, serpentine belt tool, torque wrench, multimeter. Access and belt routing vary widely by vehicle — photograph the belt routing before removal.
Are there recalls on the 2016 Tesla Model S’s electrical system?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2016 Tesla Model S filed under the electrical system: 24V051000 (2024-01-30), electrical system / instrument cluster/panel; 23V838000 (2023-12-12), electrical system / adas / autonomous/self driving / software; 22V037000 (2022-01-27), electrical system / adas / autonomous/self driving / software. Recall repairs are free at a franchised Tesla dealer.