Articles and Videos
The Best Time To Buy a Car [To Save You Money]
Learn about the best time to buy a car, especially if your vehicle needs frequent repairs. Timing your purchase strategically can save you money and stress....
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Time-Stamped Car Maintenance Checklist
Maximize your vehicle's lifespan with this comprehensive car maintenance checklist, organized by time periods, ensuring no maintenance task is forgotten....
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How To Change a Tire in 11 Easy Steps
Knowing how to change a tire is a helpful skill if you are ever stranded with a flat tire. AAA breaks it down into 11 easy steps to get you back on the road....
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How Much Does It Cost To Paint a Car?
How much it costs to paint a car depends on several factors, including vehicle size and type of paint, but the average for a mid-range job is $1,000 to $4,500....
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How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Windshield?
A wide range of factors can increase the cost of replacing your windshield. We'll explore several of these factors and give tips for saving money on repairs....
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How To Drive a Stick Shift Like a Pro
In a stick shift, the driver manually changes gears to control the car's speed. With a bit of practice, you can learn how to drive a stick shift in no time....
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What Is MPG? [+ How To Improve It]
MPG stands for miles per gallon. Learn how this figure impacts your vehicle's fuel efficiency, how to calculate it and how to improve yours to save money....
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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. ...
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11 Ways To Know You May Need New Brakes
How do you know when you need new brakes? From grinding noises to vibrations, read on to learn 11 signs your vehicle needs brake replacement....
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How To Pump Your Own Gas: 11 Steps To Do It Safely
Whether you're just learning to drive or need a refresher, learn how to pump your own gas with our 11-step process, from pulling up to the pump to driving away....
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Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: Which Is Better for Your Car?
While most manufacturers recommend conventional oil, synthetic oil is better for high-performance vehicles and extreme driving conditions....
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What Is a Car Tune-Up?
Car tune-ups are vital for maintaining vehicle performance. Explore what's involved, how frequently to schedule tune-ups and their importance for your vehicle....
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9 Car Battery Maintenance Tips for Peak Performance
Learn effective methods for identifying when to replace a car battery, along with expert car battery maintenance tips to extend its longevity....
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What Coolant Does My Car Need?
Most drivers overlook engine coolant, though it's crucial for smooth car operation. Learn about coolant types and how to select the right one for your car....
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Car Overheating: 8 Causes and Solutions
If your car is overheating, it's most likely due to a problem in your coolant system, such as a thermostat failure, damaged radiator or water pump....
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Hail Damage to Your Car: Everything You Need To Know
Discover everything you need to know about hail damage to your car, including prevention tips, repair solutions and whether it's covered by insurance....
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How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
Change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles depending on the type of oil you use and driving conditions. Defer to your owner's manual's maintenance schedule....
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7 Tips on How To Get Unstuck From Snow
Learn how to get unstuck from snow this winter with these helpful tips and tricks....
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How To Check Tire Pressure: Everything You Need To Know
Maintaining proper tire pressure of 30-35 psi keeps you safe on the road, helping you avoid potentially dangerous situations like tire blowouts and flat tires....
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What Is a Hybrid Car?
A hybrid car is any vehicle that has both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. Learn how they work and what to consider before you buy one....
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14 Reasons Your Car Won't Start
When your car won't start, it can be difficult to identify the cause. AAA shares 14 of the most common reasons plus how to fix them to get you back on the road....
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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....
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AAA Advocates Awareness for Slow Down Move Over Law
For more than 15 years AAA, along with other industry and safety stakeholders, has been instrumental in passing Move Over laws in all 50 states....
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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....
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7 Tips on How To Get Unstuck From Snow
Learn how to get unstuck from snow this winter with these helpful tips and tricks....
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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...
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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...
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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....
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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....
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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....
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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. ...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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....
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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....
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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....
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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....
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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...
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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?...
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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...
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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...
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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. ...
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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....
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Windshield Wipers 101
AAA shows you how to remove and install new windshield wiper blades plus how to add windshield washer fluid....
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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...
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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....
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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....
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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! ...
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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....
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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....
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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. ...
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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....
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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...
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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....
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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!...
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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....
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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....
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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...
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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....
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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....
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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....
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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....
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5 Ways To Know You May Need Brake Repair
Know the five warning signs that it may be time for brake repair service....
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Avoid Cruise Control On Slippery Roads
Myth: Cruise control can be used all the time regardless of driving weather. ...
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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....
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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! ...
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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....
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Top 5 Things To Know About An Extended Car Warranty
Want help deciding whether or not to purchase an extended warranty for your car? ...
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Changing Windshield Wipers Seasonally
Myth: Regular windshield wipers can be used year-round. ...
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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....
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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....
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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?...
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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? ...
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When the Mercury Drops So Does Electric Vehicle Range
AAA finds that icy temperatures cause drop in electric vehicle range...
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ADAS Technology Naming
Many consumers may not realize that some Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have been available for nearly 30 years....
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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...
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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....
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How To Avoid Pothole Damage
Driving through a seemingly innocent hole in the road could result in costly car damage. ...
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Top 10 Ways To Get Better Gas Mileage
The way you drive directly affects your fuel economy. ...
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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. ...
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How Long Can You Drive On a Spare Tire
Myth: You can drive normally on a smaller-sized spare tire....
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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. ...
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How Do You Choose The Right Auto Repair Shop
Ask your friends and family, Check for autotech certifications, Look for shop affiliations. ...
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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? ...
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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....
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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....
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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...
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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?...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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....
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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....
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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...
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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...
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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...
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When To Replace Your Cars Battery
How to extend the life of your car battery, and AAA tips for selecting a replacement....
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Flood Damaged Cars
AAA tips for auto flood damage recovery and how to avoid buying a flood damaged car....
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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...
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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....
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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...
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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....
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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 ...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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 ...
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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 ...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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. ...
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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....
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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...
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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...
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