Volvo 850 alternator/battery?

[jc1688]

I haven't touched my 97 Volvo 850 for around 3 weeks and then I was unable to start the engine because the battery was drained... (the battery is only 1 year old)

Anyways I jump started the car, drove to an auto shop and let them inspect my battery. They said they would replace my battery if that is the problem, or just charge up the battery for free. After an hour or so the guy told me that the alternator is not working, and it would cost $650 to replace it. Then he told me the risk of driving a car without a properly functional alternator.etc. But seeing that it costs $650 to replace the alternator, i decided to drive home.

Somehow I don't really trust that guy. So I might go to the dealer and get it checked tomorrow.

What should I do? Should I continue to drive in order to test whether my alternator is functional or not?

[Jot]

I would check the glove box light and the trunk light . Yes batteries will drain down over three weeks . Check around as some parts/battery stores will check the charging system for free

[Guest]

I can't open my glove box cuz its stuck.. If my high beam doesn't work properly, does that immediately say that the alternator is not working?