Why you need AAA
Why Every New Driver Should Have at Least a Basic AAA* Membership for Peace of Mind
*AAA = American Automobile Association
As a new student in the U.S., you’re likely navigating a lot of changes. From settling into a new academic routine to adapting to cultural differences, the last thing you want is to face car troubles without a solid backup plan. If you plan to drive while studying here, having a basic AAA membership is one of the smartest investments you can make for your peace of mind. Here’s why:
1. Reliable Roadside Assistance Anytime, Anywhere
Car trouble can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at the most inconvenient times. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or running out of gas, AAA’s roadside assistance is available 24/7 to help you. With a simple phone call or app request, a professional will be on their way to get you back on the road. Besides, to my eyes this roadside assistance is almost a monopoly, to the point where Americans don’t say « call a roadside assistance », they say « call AAA! ». As an international student unfamiliar with local service providers, having this reliable support network is invaluable.
2. Affordable Peace of Mind
The basic AAA membership is cost-effective, especially when compared to the potential expenses of an unexpected towing service or emergency repairs. For the relatively low price of $33 (for 1 year) , you’re covered for a variety of situations that could otherwise cost hundreds of dollars. For students on a tight budget, this membership is a practical way to avoid surprise expenses.
3. Towing Coverage
Even the basic AAA membership includes free towing up to a certain distance (7 miles). This is particularly useful if your car breaks down far from your school or accommodation. Without AAA, arranging a towing service on your own can be both costly and stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local providers.
Personal Experience
To my luck, or lack of it, I tested the AAA service quite a few times.. in my case the drive shaft on my Dodge Charger got disconnected from the rear axle, which made the car stop moving instantly. Fortunately, the guys at AAA got the old girl to the shop in no time !
3 months later.. I had to call them again because the battery died, and the engine couldn’t start. Initially, I thought a AAA agent would come and just jump start the car and would have to go straight to a garage and change the battery myself. But to my pleasant surprise after a 30 min wait, the nicest man comes with a truck loaded with brand new car batteries. I asked him how he knew which one to have, and he said to me that he has access to the model and year of the customer’s car to provide him with the exact needs prior to service. He also told me that he owns a Dodge Charger himself and knows the car really well, which definitely helped a little.
15 minutes later, a brand new AAA battery (3 year Warranty) was installed and I was back on my way.
This goes to show that, although my car has been quite stubborn and time consuming, problems like these can happen to anyone and any car (even Toyotas), a dead battery is a very common issue and can ruin your day very quickly. Another nice perk with AAA is that if you sign with them in North Carolina, they will assist you at no additional cost in South Carolina as well (both Carolinas). They also have various plans, that I have opted for considering the frequency and risk of my usage, which maxes out at 200 miles of free towing with the « Premier » subscription.
Hopefully you won’t have to ever call them, but I can assure that this company will have your back.
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