Replace Brushes or the Alternator Itself
 

I have a 1991 Honda Accord that still has the original factory
alternator in it (173k miles). The charge light came on and I took it
to an auto electric shop today and he simply said it needed a new
alternator.

How does one know if all one needs is to replace the brushes or if the
alternator really does need to be replaced?

Thanks,

Tim