Yahoo Autos Is AAA Service Worth It for Your Budget?
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The American Automobile Association, or AAA, is a nonprofit federation of motor clubs that services the entire United States. Is AAA worth it? The answer depends on a wide variety of factors, ranging from your budget to your driving and travel patterns.
AAA membership costs differ depending on the membership level you choose and where you live. Generally, the cheapest options are about $50 per year, while the most expensive options cost about $120 per year. The latter can seem like a large investment, but it might be more than worth it considering the number of benefits frequent travelers can enjoy from their membership.
Savings from AAA only follow if you use the company's services. Drivers who don't travel much might not have the chance to take advantage of everything AAA can offer, which means the money they're paying for membership isn't benefiting them fully. Additionally, certain insurance policies and warranties offer the same services as AAA. Find out if AAA is worth it for your budget.
AAA Coverage
When you have AAA, you can enjoy a wide variety of benefits. These universal benefits are available no matter which of the three membership tier levels you choose:
Battery Jumps
There are many reasons why you might need a jump-start, like accidentally leaving a car light on or having an alternator problem. While portable jump-starters can get the job done, most drivers don't have them readily available, which is why AAA includes battery jumps as part of its roadside assistance package.
Battery Changes
If you need to get your vehicle's battery replaced, AAA can take care of that for you. The service will go against the cost of your annual roadside assistance allowance, however, unless you agree to pay the full price of the replacement battery. If you cover the full cost of the battery, AAA will come to you and replace it at no charge, and it doesn't count toward your annual allowance.
Insurance Discounts
Several insurers have partnered with AAA clubs to offer member discounts, including Auto Club Family Insurance Company, AAA Life Insurance Company, and Automobile Club Inter-Insurance Exchange. The latter not only includes auto insurance but also renters insurance, life insurance, homeowners insurance, and excess liability insurance.
Maintenance Discounts
Regular maintenance is essential for every vehicle, and you can get yours at a discount as a AAA member when you use AAA-approved auto repair shops. Members get 10% off all parts and labor charges at these facilities, though the maximum benefit for a single repair is $50. Most of these affiliated shops won't offer this discount by default, so be sure to ask for it and be ready to show your AAA card as proof of membership. These mechanics must also guarantee that their work will last for at least two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Car Rental Discounts
Hertz has teamed up with AAA to offer discounts that range from a few percentage points to 20% off your rental. The rental location and vehicle model will dictate the exact discount. Additionally, your AAA membership includes a complimentary Hertz Gold Plus membership that offers vehicle changes, expedited checkout, and more. The amount of Hertz rewards points you receive for this membership depends on the AAA tier level you choose.
Travel Discounts
AAA branches out to all types of travel, not just cars. For example, you can access travel agency services, discounted and sometimes free trip planning, admission to attractions, travel booking, and cruise planning. AAA also offers travel guides for both national and international locations. Even short trips are covered with travel concierge services that can offer local weather reports, rentals, ticketing, and assistance with reservations.
Store Discounts
Several retail stores, including UPS and Best Buy, have partnered with AAA to offer exclusive discounts to members. While the offerings vary depending on the store, some discounts boast savings of up to 50% off retail prices. To get this discount, you must present your AAA membership card.
AAA Membership Levels
When you apply for AAA membership, you can choose from three tier levels. They all have plenty to offer, but the more expensive tiers are naturally going to come with more benefits. You'll be able to choose from the Classic, Plus, and Premier tiers:
