Nissan Repair: 2000 Nissan Altima 2.5 L GXE 4 Door Sedan, nissan altima, brake fluid

Question
Hi Calvin:

Bought Car Used with 93K in August 2006.  Today it has 188K.  Brake Light and Charging Light went on about one (1) mile from my house just about an hour ago.  

Can you provide any insight at all?  Belts Loose/Broken?  Brake Fluid Low?  Alternator?????  Is it safe to drive short distance tomorrow & Monday (to Mechanic 20-25 miles away)?  Or do I need to have it towed?????

Thank you,

Orrin

Answer
Hi Orrin -

It seems that the alternator needs replacement. Driving should be OK, but keep it to daytime with minimal electrical use (radio, A/C, etc.). Any of these will be a direct load on the battery if the alternator is not charging.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin