I'm not used to the new stuff but I would think the battery would cover for the alternator until its too low to start anymore. I did test the alternator, I believe it was putting out 14.9 volts. The battery was 12.5 volts. I turned the head lights and blower motor on full blast with the engine off and it dropped to 11.4 volts. The battery is probablly 4 years old and has some corrosion. Do you think that could be my problem pontiacforlifesc? It's worth a try, I sure hope so.