The battery had to be replaced at just 30,000 miles. The car had a worsening problem of not turning over properly. After the spark plugs were replaced and the alternator was checked they discovered that the battery had to be replaced. I took it to a reliable shop instead of the dealership this time. The shop said cheap parts were used in the engine but the alternator is good. Luckily they didn't charge me anything for their diagnostics and I was able to replace the battery myself for $100.

To check the alternator on this car you have to lift the engine, so self repair is not really an option unless you have shop equipment. Just to change the battery and spark plugs you will need a ratchet set - 11 bolts to replace the spark plugs and 4 to replace the battery. The spark plugs should be replaced with decent quality ones as soon as you buy the car because they were extremely cheap and wore out before the designated maintenance time, it's only about $8 and it will save you time and grief later.