car died

[VWaffe@aol.com]

OK, not DIED, died, but it wouldn't start when I got off of work. Clicking 
noise, no turn-over. Slow response from the electronics. My little chime (the 
one that goes on when you start the car with seat-belt undone) has been weak 
and stuttery starting up in the PacNorWest (sorry, Navy influence) mornings. 
Naturally, I'm suspecting that the cahnge of climate (FL, AZ to WA) has done 
my battery in. Called up AAA, and they showed up, hooked up the cables, but 
still unable to start the car. Waited a few minutes, while the guy gassed his 
engine, and then tried again. All that really happened was the darned horn 
from the anti-theft system just went off HONKHONKHONKHONKHONK... you get the 
picture. I'd take the key out, put it in the driver's door, turn, then 
quickly try again. Just the clicking again. Sheesh.
     Long story longer. Towed to dealership, waiting for AM. Here's where you 
come in... Should I just pick up a battery at Wal-Mart and try to put it in 
to save my money, or let them (VW) do their thing and charge me $200? I know 
I should have the alternator and belt checked, to ensure proper tension, but 
why not just do that after I put in a battery MYSELF? Hey, if it ain't the 
battery, I can take it back to WalMart, and I've STILL saved myself money. 
Any other probables? Thanks.

God Bless,
Dave