Usually reversing the polarity would not damage the alternator as the fuses would have blown before any damage occurs but for electrical components, it can still occur.
You needed a jumpstart, that could mean the alternator was already bad before the problem. Was the charge indicator light showing prior to this occurring?
If the problem is due to a fuse, you would not see the charge indicator light when ignition switch is turned on.
Alternator fuses are underhood.
Sunday, November 25th, 2012 AT 9:10 PM