ORLANDO, Fla. (Apr. 1, 2025)— In 2024, AAA received over 27 million emergency roadside service calls across the United States. Of those calls, the majority of vehicles required towing (roughly 13 million) or were experiencing 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. During April, which is Car Care Month, AAA encourages all vehicle owners to keep up with car care basics to prolong the life of their vehicle and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
“Car care month is a great reminder to keep up with vehicle maintenance,” said Cliff Ruud, managing director of Automotive for AAA. “We get a lot of calls about towing and battery problems that could have been avoided had these vehicles been maintained…To avoid costly, inconvenient, and perhaps unsafe breakdowns, we really encourage drivers to stay on top of their car’s health.”
Most vehicles equipped with newer technology are likely to have helpful alerts that remind drivers when it’s time to perform basic vehicle maintenance, such as checking tire pressure, changing their oil, or inspecting the brake system. But no matter the age of a car, it still needs regular maintenance to stay in tip-top shape.
Car Care Tips:
- Vehicle inspections - AAA Approved Auto Repair shops offer a free vehicle inspection with a paid repair along with other types of service. Oil changes are the perfect time to take advantage of convenient inspections to ensure all vehicle systems, tires, and car batteries are operating at full capacity. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to get to know your mechanic and stay ahead of any more significant issues down the road.
- Stay alert – to sounds, smells, or fluids leaking from the car. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to a significant repair that could have been avoided otherwise.
- Check for recalls – easily check if a vehicle is affected by a recall by locating the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on a windshield or driver-side doorjamb. Visit NHTSA.gov/Recalls to search for any open safety recalls on a vehicle. If a vehicle has an open recall, don’t delay – visit AAA Approved Auto Repair shops to learn more.
- 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: Do It Yourself “DIY” Car Care
“Overall, taking care of your car makes for a smoother and more enjoyable ride. Plus, it can save you some serious cash down the line by helping you avoid those pricey repairs or surprise breakdowns,” said David Bennett, Senior Repair Manager
If you find yourself in need of roadside assistance, the fastest and most efficient way to submit a request is to use the AAA Digital Roadside Request online tool or text “HELP” to 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357). AAA will then send you a link to a self-service digital request service. After answering a few quick questions, help will be on the way! Stay updated with text messages from your technician and track their arrival.
Approved Auto Repair You Can Trust
AAA provides important tools and information, so you know ahead of time what to expect and have the right details to make informed decisions.
- 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. Members save money on maintenance, inspections, and repairs at more than 7,000 shops in the AAA network.
- AAA Approved Auto Repair shops undergo rigorous inspections and offer trustworthy, dependable service. All AAA technicians are ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified or factory trained, which means they have met the ASE standard for excellence in automotive repair. For shop owners that are interested in participating in AAA Approved Auto Repair program, click here.
- AAA partnered with NAPA Autotech to launch a mentorship program for aspiring auto repair technicians. The program, made available to AAA’s Approved Auto Repair facilities, is designed to provide valuable hands-on experience through expert guidance from industry leaders. Approved auto repair shops looking to enroll should visit https://networkofsavings.aaa.biz/aar-apprentice-program.
About AAA
Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services – all to enhance the life journey of our 65+ million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.