Alternator Replacement

My VW Jetta'99 car is making some noise due to a damaged/broken alternator. Are there any pitfalls of delaying replacing the alternator?

It could leave you stranded if the bearing completely fails & locks up.

Alternator is an electric generator. It produces alternating current but rectified to DC current. Its like a heart, if anything breaks or anything happens, your car will die and you will be looking at expensive towing charges:(. Maybe you should look for a good quality used one and test it or get a warranty on it. Even junk yards offer 3 weeks or so warranty on some parts sometimes.