As Cars Age and Costs Rise, AAA Urges Importance of Auto Repair and Maintenance

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WALNUT CREEK, CA –  The average car on the road today is approaching its teenage years.  According to vehicle registrations tracked by S&P Global Mobility Data, the average vehicle age in the U.S. is 12.5 years. To avoid costly, inconvenient, and perhaps unsafe breakdowns, AAA encourages drivers to stay on top of their car’s health during Car Care Month.

In 2024, AAA received over 27 million emergency roadside service calls across the United States. 

•  The majority of vehicles required towing (roughly 13 million) or experienced battery issues (approximately 7 million). Combined, these two types of incidents accounted for roughly 74% of total calls and eclipsed flat tires and lockouts.
• AAA received an estimated 215,000 service calls for electric vehicles (EVs), representing about 0.8% of total roadside service events.

“We get a lot of calls about problems that could have been avoided had these vehicles been maintained,” said John Walter, Executive VP of Auto Repair with AAA Northern California. “Taking care of your car makes for a smoother and more enjoyable ride. Plus, it can save you money down the line by helping avoid costly repairs or surprise breakdowns.”

How to Keep Your Vehicle Running Longer

• Vehicle inspections – Get your vehicle inspected by a trusted auto repair shop. Oil changes are the perfect time to take advantage of convenient inspections to ensure vehicle systems, tires, and car batteries are operating at full capacity.
• Stay alert – to sounds, smells, or fluids leaking from your vehicle. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to a significant repair that could have been avoided otherwise. Newer models can now alert you when it’s time to change your oil or when an issue arises.
• Maintenance checkups – pick a day that’s easy to remember and mark on a calendar to check tire pressure, tire condition, and fluid levels like oil coolant and windshield washer. If needed, top off any low fluids and inflate tires to the recommended level. Check out AAA’s Do It Yourself “DIY” Car Care tips.

Approved Auto Repair You Can Trust 

•  AAA Approved Auto Repair shops offer a free vehicle inspection with a paid repair along with other types of service.
• Members save money on maintenance, inspections and repairs at more than 7,000 shops in the AAA network.
• Use the AAA Repair Cost Estimator to estimate costs associated with your car repair. Each estimate breaks down costs for auto parts and labor, and the member discount offered at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities.

About AAA Northern California

AAA has a proud history of serving Members for over 100 years. AAA is on a mission to create Members for life by unleashing the innovative spirit of 5,300 employees representing 6 million Members across Northern California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, Montana, Wyoming, and Alaska. In addition to legendary roadside assistance, AAA offers home, auto, and life insurance, travel, and home security services. Learn more at AAA.com.