If your car is having difficulty starting or staying running, it may be a sign that the alternator is going bad. Alternators are what provide power to the car's battery, and if they are not working properly, the battery will quickly become drained. Other warning signs of a failing alternator include dimming headlights or dashboard lights, strange noises coming from the engine, and a burning smell coming from the engine compartment. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your car to a mechanic to have it checked out as soon as possible.