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AAA Conservation Efforts + Battery Recycling

AAA's car battery program and Car Care Month are two initiatives that offer members and the public ways to maintain their vehicles in an environmentally conscious manner.... Read More

The Check Engine Light: Common Causes and How To Fix It

A check engine light can spell trouble for your vehicle. Learn about common reasons this warning indicator may turn on, and what you can do to fix it.... Read More

7 Tips on How To Get Unstuck From Snow

Learn how to get unstuck from snow this winter with these helpful tips and tricks.... Read More

8 Ways to Love Your Vehicle Battery

When you think of romance, your car battery probably doesn’t come to mind. But it’s worth showing your battery some love! You don’t realize how much you need it until it dies! Here are some ways to g... Read More

All the Electric Vehicle Perks That Come with a AAA membership!

Electric vehicles (EVs) are not new to AAA. Over the past decade, we have committed to learning, developing, and servicing EVs as their popularity has grown. We offer a variety of benefits specifical... Read More

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Brake Pads?

Brakes can wear down quickly. Learn how much it costs to replace brake pads, as well as warning signs to look for so you can continue driving with confidence.... Read More

Bad Alternator vs. Bad Battery: A Quick Guide

If your car doesn’t start, it could be a bad alternator or a bad battery. AAA explains the different signs for each so you can get it fixed and back on the road.... Read More

What To Do When You Lose Your Car Keys

Wondering what to do when you lose your car keys? AAA tells you exactly what to do so you can find your keys or get a replacement and get back on the road ASAP.... Read More

Your Driving Costs

For over 70 years, AAA’s Your Driving Costs has provided members, consumers, and the media with information on the average costs of owning and operating a new automobile. ... Read More

Helping Others is the Family Business

Helping people is something Kevin’s family has done for years – through his own towing company rescuing stranded drivers and his work with this local community. So it was no surprise to Kevin when on... Read More

Tow Providers Never Give Up

Roland, of Arrowhead Services, received a call for a vehicle stranded in very remote area. He was determined to find him no matter how long it took. He is someone’s father, husband and he wanted to b... Read More

Keeping Cool When Things Heat Up

In the summertime, afternoon temperatures in Florida can easily get above 100 degrees. Johnnie, a tow provider with Meyers Towing, responded to a member whose car had stalled out on the side of the r... Read More

Giving Back to Those Who Have Served

Hakem, owner of Elite Roadside Assistance, finds helping stranded AAA members to be a very rewarding experience. That’s why he was honored to help a member who served our country make it to his great... Read More

Heroes Never Hesitate

Christian was just a few hours into his shift for United Towing when four women ran up to his truck and frantically began yelling for help. His heroic actions saved the lives of two people that night... Read More

A Young Mother's Gratitude

On a cold and rainy Sunday afternoon, a young mother traveling with her three small children found herself stranded when her minivan overheated. C & C Automotive came to the rescue and got the woman... Read More

A Tow Providers Instinct is Always to Help Others First

Chad, a tow truck operator, was in a crash with another driver but instead of tending to his own injuries, he rushed to the injured to help. AAA commends this Real Hero of the Road for his selfless a... Read More

Reacting without Hesitation to Save a Life

Saleem, a tow truck operator, and one of his staff rushed out to help someone who had been in a serious crash in front of their shop. AAA celebrates this Real Hero of the Road for his quick action th... Read More

Small Acts of Kindness to Help Heal a Community

Jeanette and her team of tow truck operators were called when tragedy struck their community. They rose to the occasion and AAA commends these Real Heroes of the Road for the compassion and grace the... Read More

Food for the Soul

Michael and Joe, two tow truck operators, wanted to help during the pandemic and started delivering for Meals on Wheels. AAA commends these Real Heroes of the Road for their acts of generosity during... Read More

Sometimes Members Need More than a Tow

Brett, a tow truck operator, went the extra mile and drove member with dementia home to his family. AAA commends this Real Hero of the Road for this act of kindness.... Read More

Heroes Run Toward Danger when Everyone Else Runs Away

Zack, a tow truck operator, ran toward a burning car to rescue two small children. AAA celebrates this Real Hero of the Road for making a difference every day.... Read More

A New Van, A New Home and Hope for a New Life

After a closer inspection of a vehicle on a routine call, Chuck Berry of Expedited Towing, learned the car he would be towing was also the member's home.... Read More

Heading Home for the Holidays

A young woman headed to surprise her family for Christmas ended up stranded with a flat tire. It was late and as Dennis Lee Richards of Riverside Auto & Towing, Longbottom, OH, arrived on scene.... Read More

The "2021 AAA Road Trip" Starter Pack

Your summer road trip will be over before it even starts if your vehicle can’t go the distance. Before any long road trip, AAA recommends getting a vehicle inspection to check key components like the... Read More

Debunking Common Myths about Car Maintenance

Oil changes every 3,000 miles? Car batteries that last 5 years? Warranty voided if you go somewhere other than the dealer for service?... Read More

Questions to ask when picking an auto repair shop

When picking an auto repair shop, ask these questions to find the right one for you. AAA breaks down the most important traits to look for in a mechanic... Read More

When It Comes To Repair Pick a Mechanic With The 3 Cs

When it comes to finding a reliable auto repair shop, what matters most? According to a recent AAA survey, people said they look for the 3 C’s – confidence, cost and convenience... Read More

What To Expect On Your Next Visit To The Mechanic

As the summer heats up so is the desire to travel. Especially since most of us have been under some sort of lockdown or quarantine for the last several months. ... Read More

Tire Pressure 101

AAA shows you where to find the right tire pressure for your car, how to check it and how to add air if needed.... Watch Video

Windshield Wipers 101

AAA shows you how to remove and install new windshield wiper blades plus how to add windshield washer fluid.... Watch Video

So Your Car is Under Lockdown Too – Now What?

Americans aren’t the only ones parked at home in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. So are their cars. To make sure your car will be ready to get moving again when the time comes, follow these... Read More

True Cost of Electric Vehicles

Previous research from AAA has found that 40 million Americans have expressed interested in going electric for their next vehicle … yet the roads are still mostly filled with gas-powered cars.... Read More

Auto Repairs That Scare

AAA’s automotive experts - David Bennett and Michael Calkins – tell scary stories about DIY car repairs you won’t believe! They also discuss ways to take the scare of getting your vehicle repaired.... Watch Video

How to Find a Trusted Repair Shop

Trying to pick a repair shop can be stressful. David Bennett – AAA’s automotive expert – and Dennis McLaughlin of Honest-1 Auto Care give tips on how to pick a shop that’s right for you! ... Watch Video

Pedestrian Detection Systems - How well do they really work?

Pedestrian deaths are on the rise, and a AAA study shows that pedestrian detection systems and automatic braking features in cars may not always help drivers avoid fatal mishaps.... Read More

Need a new car battery? AAA delivers on the spot

Never get stranded again because of a dead car battery. Use AAA’s mobile service to have your car battery tested to determine its remaining power and, if needed, a new battery installed on the spot.... Read More

Car care tips to keep your ride in tip-top shape

Mechanical systems and technologies make cars very complex machines, and these four simple tips help keep them running at peak performance. ... Read More

Auto repair shop: how do I find a good one?

When you need auto repair and maintenance, you want the best for your car at a fair price. Trust the certified professionals at the more than 7,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair shops nationwide.... Read More

Average Annual Cost of New Vehicle Ownership

AAA analysis each year helps drivers better understand the true cost of car ownership. Knowing what it really costs to own, operate and maintain a vehicle helps consumers make wiser choices when buyi... Read More

Transporting a Christmas Tree

If not properly secured, a tree can cause vehicle damage such as scratched paint, torn door seals or distorted window frames.... Read More

What is fact and what is fiction?

AAA’s automotive experts provide answers to the most common myths & what is fact when it comes to your car!... Watch Video

AAA urges drivers to act on Takata airbag recall

AAA urges you to take the vehicle to have the defective airbag inflators repaired at no cost. If left unchanged, defective airbags can injure or kill drivers and passengers.... Read More

Vehicle Escape Tools

Don’t take chances in an emergency. Keep a car escape tool close at hand in your vehicle and make sure it will work on the type of window glass your car has.... Read More

AAA’s Tips for Your Next Road Trip

June 21st is the official start of summer and road trip season! Watch David Bennett and Julie Hall on their recent Facebook Live episode discuss all things related to getting ready for your next road... Watch Video

How Long Do Car Batteries Last

There is no simple answer, but based on decades of industry experience, we know that three key factors affect the life of a car battery: time, heat and vibration.... Read More

Diesel Fuel Additives Resolve Drivability Issues

Diesel engine vehicles generally run more efficiently than their gasoline engine counterparts, however the nature of diesel fuel could cause some drivability problems.... Read More

Maintenance Reminder Systems

Many newer vehicles have maintenance reminder systems that display alerts when it is time for an oil change and other needed services.... Read More

Car Safety Ratings

Vehicle safety should be a major consideration when buying a car. Safety ratings provide critical information that can help car-buyers make well-informed decisions.... Read More

5 Ways To Know You May Need Brake Repair

Know the five warning signs that it may be time for brake repair service.... Read More

Avoid Cruise Control On Slippery Roads

Myth: Cruise control can be used all the time regardless of driving weather. ... Read More

EV Consumer Survey and Green Car Guide

Electric vehicles are already on the road today and with the advancements in style and range that have been made over the last few years, they could be a viable option for you.... Read More

Watch the episode of "Car Battery Facts"

Automotive experts, David Bennett & Todd Milner discuss on Facebook Live facts about car batteries, AAA's battery recycling efforts, mobile battery service and other helpful hints! ... Watch Video

Headlight Technology For Safer Night Driving

Driving at night is one of the most dangerous activities for not only those behind the wheel but for those on foot or on bike as well.... Read More

Top 5 Things To Know About An Extended Car Warranty

Want help deciding whether or not to purchase an extended warranty for your car? ... Read More

Changing Windshield Wipers Seasonally

Myth: Regular windshield wipers can be used year-round. ... Read More

Many Americans Remain Afraid of Fully Self Driving Vehicles

A number of high-profile incidents involving self-driving test vehicles last year seems to have left an impression on many Americans.... Read More

Watch the episode of "Pothole Palooza"

AAA automotive experts David Bennett and Michael Calkins discuss on Facebook Live the best ways to avoid costly pothole damage to your car's tires, wheels and suspension.... Watch Video

Auto Parts Prices Explained

Do you know why auto parts cost more at a repair shop than they do at your local auto parts store, or why most repair shops refuse to install customer-supplied products?... Read More

Top 4 Myths Vs Facts About Using Nitrogen To Inflate Car Tires

Want to know if it's better to use compressed air or nitrogen to inflate your car tires? ... Read More

When the Mercury Drops So Does Electric Vehicle Range

AAA finds that icy temperatures cause drop in electric vehicle range... Read More

ADAS Technology Naming

Many consumers may not realize that some Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have been available for nearly 30 years.... Read More

How Long To Warm Up The Engine Before Driving

Want to know if you really need to warm up the car engine before driving, even during the cold winter months... Read More

When Winter Tires Make Sense

At some point during the year, a majority of Americans will find themselves facing treacherous driving conditions on snowy or icy roadways.... Read More

How To Avoid Pothole Damage

Driving through a seemingly innocent hole in the road could result in costly car damage. ... Read More

Top 10 Ways To Get Better Gas Mileage

The way you drive directly affects your fuel economy. ... Read More

What To Have In Your Car Emergency Kit

Whether you're preparing for your next road trip or the next season, it's a good idea to take inventory of the items in your car emergency kit. ... Read More

How Long Can You Drive On a Spare Tire

Myth: You can drive normally on a smaller-sized spare tire.... Read More

Does Your Car Need An Oil Change Every 3000 Miles

You may not need to change your oil every 3,000 miles, but it's a good practice to check it once a month. Follow these best tips from AAA to keep your car running smoothly. ... Read More

How Do You Choose The Right Auto Repair Shop

Ask your friends and family, Check for autotech certifications, Look for shop affiliations. ... Read More

How Efficient is Your Cars Engine

It has become routine. You get in your car, turn the key, put the transmission in gear, hit the gas and off you go. But, have you ever stopped to think what it takes to make your car run? ... Read More

Not All Automatic Transmissions Are Created Equal

If you are in the market for a new or used car, you probably want one with an automatic transmission.... Read More

4WD and AWD Tire Concerns

Flat tires not only can they throw a curveball into your day, but they can put a dent in your wallet when the problem can't be fixed with a simple puncture repair.... Read More

Avoid Over Maintenance

Every vehicle needs regular maintenance to keep it in proper working order. Following the vehicle manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for your car will preserve your investment, help ensu... Read More

Picking a Maintenance Partner

As a responsible vehicle owner, you know regular maintenance is crucial to ensure a smooth and safe driving experience, but how do you pick the right provider to do the work?... Read More

Shift Smoothly With Quality Automatic Transmission Fluid

Automatic transmissions are becoming more efficient every year as engineers endeavor to maximize fuel economy and reduce pollution. Some of the changes include more forward gears in conventional auto... Read More

Worn Tires Increase Wet Road Stopping Distances

Rain showers and storms can make for treacherous travel due to an unlikely suspect, tires. The less tread your tires have, the higher the probability they could hydroplane and completely lose contac... Read More

Filter Facts

If you're a long-time vehicle owner, you've likely replaced your fair share of filters, but how many of them were necessary? Thanks to advances in technology, today's cars and trucks can go much long... Read More

Engine Coolant 101 The Right Coolant for Your Vehicle

Most drivers don't give engine coolant a second thought. It's just another item under the check fluids service included with an oil change. However, engine coolant performs three vital jobs... Read More

Battery-Basics

AAA lists the key things drivers should know about their car battery. Get tips on care and maintenance, choosing the right battery for your car, replacement and installation, and AAA's Mobile Battery... Read More

Finding The Ideal Maintenance Frequency For Your Vehicle

There might be no worse feeling in the world than turning the key in your vehicle's ignition switch and getting no response.... Read More

The Serpentine Belt One Belt To Rule Them All

Did you know a single drive belt powers most of your vehicle's engine accessories? It's called a serpentine belt because it follows a twisting path to wrap around all the accessory pulleys.... Read More

The In And Outs Of Engine Oil

Auto maintenance can be daunting, even when it comes to something as seemingly basic as motor oil. Based on the make and model of your vehicle, you need to consider the oil's... Read More

How To Deice Your Cars Windshield

One of the more bothersome challenges of winter is removing ice from your car's windshield on frosty mornings. Here are some tips from AAA on how to prevent and remove windshield ice... Read More

ADAS Sensor Calibration Increases Repair Costs

Increasing numbers of new cars are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Some of the more common ones include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruis... Read More

When To Replace Your Cars Battery

How to extend the life of your car battery, and AAA tips for selecting a replacement.... Read More

Flood Damaged Cars

AAA tips for auto flood damage recovery and how to avoid buying a flood damaged car.... Read More

Where Does Gasoline Come From

Gasoline was discovered nearly 160 years ago as a byproduct of refining crude oil to make kerosene for lighting. There was no use for gasoline at the time, so it was burned at the refinery, converted... Read More

The Amazing Disappearing Spare Tire

Getting a flat tire is always an unexpected challenge, but if a current trend continues you may face another surprise the next time a flat tire strands you at the roadside.... Read More

How To Maximize Fuel Economy

Gasoline prices rise and fall, but it is always nice to get the most for your dollar by achieving the best possible fuel economy. How many miles you can travel on a gallon of gas varies with personal... Read More

Changing The Cabin Air Filter In Your Car

AAA approved tips to know when to replace your auto's cabin air filter and how to do it.... Read More

Dictionary Of Automotive Terms

Have you ever read an article about a new car or spoken with a service advisor at a repair shop and ended up thinking to yourself, "I need a translator to understand what he/she was talking about!" Y... Read More

How Often Should You Change Engine Oil

Every automobile engine needs oil, but not just any oil will do. Modern engines are designed and built to exacting standards and require oils that meet very specific industry and automaker specificat... Read More

Synthetic Oil Better Than Conventional

Making an informed choice about oil changes just got easier, thanks to new research on the quality of engine oil. AAA found that synthetic oil outperformed conventional oil by an average of nearly 50... Read More

Tread Tells When To Shop For New Tires

The tires are the only parts on your car that have direct contact with the road, which means they have a major effect on ride, handling, braking, and safety. For optimum performance, tires must be pr... Read More

Windshield Repair And Replacement

Did you know your car's windshield is a safety device? In addition to its primary role of protecting vehicle occupants from wind, water and debris, a windshield can help reduce crash injuries and cou... Read More

Automatic Transmission Fluid Service

An automatic transmission is second only to the engine as the most complex and costly mechanical component on your car. To work properly, an automatic transmission must be filled with a specific flui... Read More

How To Talk With A Shop About Auto Repair

You know your car better than anyone else, so when it's performance changes, the information you hold may be the key to helping your auto mechanic identify and fix the problem in a timely and cost-ef... Read More

How to Plan for Maintenance and Repair Costs for Your Car

According to AAA, 64 million American drivers (one in three) would be unable to pay for unexpected car repairs without going into debt. This indicates that many drivers underestimate the ongoing cost... Read More

Don't Confuse Gasoline Octane And Quality

Is there a difference between regular and premium gasoline? If you don't use the gasoline required or recommended by the manufacturer, could it cause problems? To understand the answers to these ques... Read More

Car Repair Labor Rates Explained

Auto repair rates vary widely across the country, with rates ranging from as low as $47 to as high as $215 per hour. Know what you're paying for by understanding how car repair shops establish their ... Read More

How Often Do Cars Need Service

If you're like most vehicle owners, you may wonder how often auto repair services are really necessary. Though you want to take good care of your vehicle, you don't want to spend your hard earned mon... Read More

Insist On A Written Repair Estimate

Getting a written repair estimate from your vehicle repair shop can be a pain. However, there are several reasons why it may be a good idea. AAA vigorously encourages vehicle owners getting a car rep... Read More

How To Find An Auto Mechanic You Can Trust

In order to trust a shop with your car maintenance and auto repair needs, there are certain qualifications the shop technicians should possess. Learn more about questions you can ask to help ensure t... Read More

Vehicle Warranties Offer Low Or No Cost Repairs

This guide explains modern vehicles and diagnostics, offers tips on communicating with repair shops, explains the benefits of written estimates, explores the qualifications of technicians, and helps ... Read More

Understanding Modern Auto Repair

This guide explains modern vehicles and diagnostics, offers tips on communicating with repair shops, explains the benefits of written estimates, explores the qualifications of technicians, and helps ... Read More

Quick Tips For Checking Vehicle Fluids

Vehicle fluids require attention more often than the 5,000- to 10,000-mile service intervals common today. Incorrect fluid levels can cause breakdowns or even serious damage. Here's how to... Read More

Changing Your Cars Engine Air Filter

Do you replace your engine air filter too often? For years, service technicians and the Environmental Protection Agency encouraged motorists to change their car's engine air filter frequently to... Read More

Not All Gasoline Is Created Equal

New testing from AAA has uncovered significant differences in the quality of gasoline sold at fuel retailers in the United States. The independent laboratory testing compared gasolines that... Read More

The Importance Of Proper Tire Inflation

For a safer car that's less costly to operate, keep your tires inflated to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressures... Read More

Give Your Car A Brake

The brakes are the most important safety system on your vehicle. Proper maintenance and prompt attention to suspected problems ensure that your brakes will perform as designed... Read More

Prepare Your Car For Summer Travel

When planning a summer road trip, use the AAA car care checklist to be sure your vehicle is ready for the ride. AAA provides car maintenance tips for tires, brakes, batteries, fluids, windshield wipe... Read More

What Does It Cost To Own And Operate A Car

If someone asked you what it costs to drive your car, the first thing that might come to mind is the price of your last fill up at the gas pump, followed closely by car payments and insurance bills. ... Read More

What To Do About Cloudy Headlights

Properly functioning headlights are key to safe nighttime driving. With 50 percent of crashes occurring at night, drivers cannot afford any reduction in visibility.... Read More

Finding an Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust

AAA believes the best way to maintain a vehicle is to choose a quality full-service repair shop and have the vehicle serviced by professionals trained to identify potential problems... Read More

Selecting Automobile Replacement Parts

Parts are parts, right? Well, maybe in chicken nuggets, but not when the subject is replacement auto parts. Whether you service your own car or have a facility do the work, you can sometimes be faced... Read More