AAA is encouraging drivers to take charge of their vehicle maintenance as Car Care Month begins, warning that neglecting routine service could lead to costly and avoidable breakdowns.
In 2024, AAA responded to more than 27 million roadside assistance calls nationwide. The majority of those calls involved towing or battery-related issues — together accounting for nearly 74% of all service requests. That includes approximately 13 million tows and 7 million battery problems.
“We get a lot of calls about issues that could have been avoided with regular maintenance,” said Cliff Ruud, managing director of Automotive for AAA. “To avoid costly, inconvenient, and perhaps unsafe breakdowns, we really encourage drivers to stay on top of their car’s health.”
Electric Vehicles Represent Small Portion of Calls
Electric vehicles (EVs) made up a small but growing share of calls, with AAA responding to an estimated 215,000 EV-related incidents — or roughly 0.8% of total roadside calls in 2024.
Ruud said staying proactive is key for all vehicles, regardless of fuel type or age.
“Most newer vehicles have smart alerts for maintenance needs like tire pressure or oil changes,” he said. “But no matter what you drive, it still needs regular checkups to stay road-ready.”
Key Tips for Car Care Month
AAA shared several ways drivers can stay ahead of problems and keep their vehicles running smoothly:
- Get vehicle inspections: AAA Approved Auto Repair shops offer free inspections with a paid repair. Routine oil changes are a great time to inspect tires, batteries, and other systems.
- Stay alert to warning signs: Don’t ignore strange sounds, smells, or fluid leaks. Addressing them early can prevent bigger — and more expensive — repairs.
- Check for recalls: Use your vehicle identification number (VIN) at NHTSA.gov/Recalls to see if your vehicle has an open safety recall.
- Perform regular checkups: Set a monthly reminder to inspect tire pressure, tread condition, and fluid levels. Top off any low fluids and inflate tires to the recommended level.
“Taking care of your car makes for a smoother ride and can save you serious cash by avoiding pricey repairs,” said David Bennett, AAA’s Senior Repair Manager.
Digital Roadside Assistance Tools
If a breakdown happens, AAA encourages members to use digital tools for faster service. Text “HELP” to 800-AAA-HELP (800-222-4357) or submit a request online. After answering a few questions, members can track their technician’s arrival via text.
Trusted Repairs Through AAA
AAA members also benefit from access to more than 7,000 AAA Approved Auto Repair shops across the country. These facilities undergo rigorous inspections and employ technicians who are ASE-certified or factory trained.
Members save money on repairs and maintenance and can use the AAA Repair Cost Estimator to get a breakdown of expected costs, including labor and parts.
AAA also continues to invest in workforce development. Through a partnership with NAPA Autotech, AAA has launched a mentorship program that gives aspiring auto technicians hands-on experience in real-world repair settings.
For more car care resources or to find a trusted repair shop near you, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair.
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