2001 headlights hesitating to come on

[bjacks915]

I have an 01 that I bought brand new in o1 and for the past week or so, when I start my car, the headlights hesitate to come on. They are set to automatically come on at dusk. Not the daytime lamps, headlights or dash lights come on for a second or two after the ignition starts. What really got me wondering is today I started the car, the dash lights flashed on for about a second and went off and came back on. I was thinking that the alternator might be going...But if anyone can give me ideas, I would be happy. I'd like to know a little before taking it to the dealer...thanks