I have had 3 batteries go bad on my 850 turbo wagon since new.

Recently my battery showed signs of weakness so I periodically charged it. It now will not hold a charge so I replaced it.

Is my alternator wearing out ?

Should I have the bushings replaced ?

When does the Alternator light suppose to come on ?

Much appriciated,

Thanks Scott

The best way to know if your alternator is performing as intended is to have a load test performed on it. Most of the national car parts chains (Autozone, etc.) will do this free of charge--just make sure the employee knows how to read the machine's results. Basically, youre concerned with two output numbers: Voltage--usually should be around 14.4 volts with engine running and Amperage--Amperage should be checked with engine running, lights on, a/c on-fan on full, and any other current drawing items you can turn on. This will pull the maximum amount of current from the electrical system causing a good alternator to reach near maximum output to recharge/maintain charge in your battery's cells. At this point read the amperage output and compare with specs for your car--I don't know the rating of the 850's unit but would suspect at least 100amps. The chain stores do have a chart of ratings. Alternatively, you can pick up a cheap inductive ammeter at Napa or the like and hold it next to the main lead from the alternator to the battery while under load--should give you a good indication.