Preventive maintenance

Each year, AAA receives millions of calls for its Roadside Assistance.

In 2019 alone, it got more than 32 million calls for assistance nationwide. Of those, almost half—more than 15 million—were for just 3 kinds of trouble: dead batteries, flat tires, and keys locked inside vehicles. Many of these issues could have been prevented with basic maintenance, but a AAA survey found that more than a third of Americans have skipped or delayed recommended services or repairs, a decision that can have painful consequences.

3 issues combine for 15.6 million calls to AAA annually

Dead batteries

23.8% of calls

Flat tires

13.1% of calls

Lockouts

11.2% of calls

American motorists frequently put off service

Despite the headache and potential danger of experiencing a mechanical problem on the road, a 2015 AAA survey found that 35% of Americans had skipped service specified by a factory maintenance schedule, or put off a repair recommended by a mechanic. Similarly, 65% had never had their vehicle’s battery tested before it failed, and 60% didn’t check their tires’ air pressure at least once a month, even though these are 2 of the best ways to help avoid a Roadside Assistance call.¹

Even drivers who want to have service done may not be able to pay for it: A 2017 AAA survey found that 1 in 3 motorists can't afford the average repair bill.

How to help your car avoid trouble

Have your battery tested

Batteries typically last 3–5 years, depending on driving habits and climate. Once they enter that range, it’s a good idea to assess their health regularly. Learn how AAA can take the hassle out of battery testing and replacement.

Check your tires monthly

The classic nail-on-the-road flat isn't avoidable, but other scenarios are. Underinflated or unevenly worn tires can lead to sudden blowouts. Learn how to take good care of your tires.

Don’t ignore warning lights

When the Check Engine light or another indicator turns on, it can be tempting to wait and see, but doing so could mean worse mileage and severe trouble down the road Learn more about how to read your dashboard warning lights.

Get regular vehicle service

Factory-scheduled maintenance can go a long way toward uncovering potential problems before they’re bad enough to require a tow. Not sure where to go for service? Consider a AAA Approved Repair facility.

Keep a spare key handy

Despite wide adoption of “smart” keys among car manufacturers, AAA still gets millions of lockout calls each year. Having a backup key (and knowing where it is) can make lockouts easier to resolve.

AAA Virtual Assistant on a mobile phone in front of a AAA tow truck

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