False test results on charging system test? How accurate are those tests they do at auto parts stores on your charging system while the car is running? The kid at Advance says my alternator is "boarderline". Could that be caused by a slipping belt? It's had a squeal for about a week that started immediatley as I ran through about 8 inches of water, so I've been thinking that the water did something to the belt. It was still squealing when it was tested yesterday but suddenly stopped squealing this afternoon. Do you think there's a chance that I can tell Advance to keep their $214 alternator now that mine isn't squealing or will doing that just put me broken down on the side of the road some day soon? 2007 Taurus V-6 with 61,000 miles. Ken

Your belt squeeling does not mean it is slipping. If it was slipping you would have more problems then just your alternator, It would get hard to steer too. The test he did was a voltage test and yes the voltage test is a good thing if your alternator is borderline that could mean you have 3 months til its bad or 3 days who knows. You could also check on a remanufactured alternator. Just because u ordered it already does not mean u have to pay for it. Squeeking belt is just a worn belt your lookin at maybe 20-25 dollars to replace that. You might as well replace that since your going to have it off anyways, would be perfect time. good luck hope you just put the alternator in because its worth $200 to not be stranded and have to buy one anyways.