Well driving home yesterday my battery gauge went to zero, lit up red and everything in the car started dying, all the warning lights on the dash came on, speedo no longer worked, etc.. Just made it home before the thing completely died. What would be your guys first step, pull the alternator and get it checked? Because I'm pretty sure it might be that.

 

That and check the passenger foot-well for signs of water intrusion.

 

Also, if I do need a new alternator, are the duralast ones from autozone any good? or should I get one from somewhere else?

 

Agree with Nuke...OE battery sucks bad.

 

The charging system and OE battery are known weak points for the S197. Have both load tested.

PA Performance alternators are known for being good replacements. http://www.pa-performance.com/Scripts/default.asp

 

Do you have a way to get to an autoparts store to have the battery and alternator tested?

Have you checked to make sure your battery cables are fine and there's no corrosion on the battery terminals?

 

Duralast batteries are fine for stock. I get the yellow top because nothings really lasts more than a couple of years out here in AZ and those have a 3 yr free replacement period.

I've had their duralast lifetime alt in my old 00 v6 mustang. Worked fine for 2 years before I sold the car.

At Rock Auto you can get a remaned Motorcraft one for around $195. A new Bosch unit runs $248.

But yes, have both bench tested.