* Cause of Alternator Failure: The alternator's failure itself might be due to age (common in 20+ year-old cars), a worn-out belt, a voltage regulator issue, or even a parasitic drain (something constantly drawing power even when the car is off). Identifying and fixing the *root cause* is crucial. If it was a parasitic drain, you might have other electrical components starting to fail.
* Consequences of Driving with a Bad Alternator: Driving with a bad alternator means your battery isn't being charged. This leads to:
* Stranding: Eventually, the battery will drain completely, leaving you unable to start the car.
* Electrical System Damage: Fluctuating voltage can damage other electrical components (computer modules, radio, etc.).
* Indirect Problems: While not directly caused by the alternator, the prolonged low voltage from a failing alternator *could* have stressed other systems, possibly shortening their lifespan. This is less likely if the problem was addressed quickly.
In short: A bad alternator is a problem that needs fixing. Addressing it promptly minimizes the risk of further issues. However, a thorough inspection to determine *why* the alternator failed is a good idea. This might uncover other underlying problems that, if left unaddressed, could lead to more costly repairs later.
