Imagine this scenario: it’s raining outside. You’re leaving the office after a hard day and are looking forward to arriving at home. You climb into your car and crank the engine. Within a few minutes, you’re on the highway with a 30-minute trip ahead of you. The radio is keeping you company while the heater warms the cab. Fifteen minutes into your drive home, your radio begins to cut out. Soon, the heater also becomes cranky. With several miles to go, your headlights begin to dim. Before long, your engine has died. You’re still miles from home and the rain has only worsened. These are the signs of a dying alternator.