Yesterday it seemed like it had some trouble starting up... would turn for a second before turning over. I was low on gas so I figured it was that and filled up. Then when I went to the gas station I left my lights on while I filled up which took maybe 3 - 4 mins and when I got back in it clicked but wouldnt start. I let it sit for a minute then it would try again and it started to turn but wouldnt, and every time I tried right away it would get worse. I had to let it sit for like 10 mins then it started up fine.

Any idea what I need to change next?

 

Most likely your alternator is shot.

 

I also have shoddy electrical inside the car a lot of the times. I figured it was the alternator and not the battery... but I needed a second opinion since I don't know that much

 

What kind of car is this?

 

91 Honda Civic aka Beater.

Shouldn't be too hard to replace the alternator right?

 

Well it might be in your case. :chuckles:

 

take it out and have a shop test it

 

As long as its not super hard i'll go for it. If it's supposed to take 60mins or something it might take me 3 hours... but i'll get it done. I enjoy this stuff and its just a learning thing for me

 

its only a couple bolts. 30min tops

check the starter and battery while your at it?

 

There are some shops that can test it with it on. No sense in removing it if it's fine. The Sears around my area used a load tester on my car with it on and it was infact faulty.