the only reliable way of determing if your alternator has gone bad is to have it tested by an automotive electricial specialist. That is because most modern alternators have the voltage regulator built in, so just testing to see if it is generating will not tell the whole story. Warning signs of alternator/voltage regulator failure are dead battery, but battery can be charged, lights dimming and getting brighter while driving, and hard starting.
bad bulbs
Bad heater core?
it is possible the wheel hub is damaged.
Maybe a bad alternator, or could need a tuneup.
Your alternator might be bad and not charging your battery properly.
When your battery does not get charge.
Turn car on remove positive battery terminal if car turns off alternator is bad
Check coolant level? Bad thermostat? Heater core airbound? Temperature control cable not adjusted properly?
Alternator not charging battery due to a bad fusable link?
If it is makeing a noise or is not putting out at least 13.5 volts it is bad. Take the car or the alternator to an Auto Parts store and have them load test the alternator to be sure.
Typically you know your alternator is out when you have to jump start your car numerous times. A way you can test it is by turning on your car and while it's running discount the + terminal. If the car turns off then your alternator is bad. If the car remains in then alternator is good and possible bad battery. Hope this helps
A bad belt, a bad regulator in the alternator or bad brushes in the alternator.