When to Call the AAA

Many people are familiar with the AAA, or American Automobile Association, which is a nonprofit federation of motor clubs that are independently owned and operated. This organization is widely known for its help with travel planning, directions, and even roadside assistance. With the many locations and services that it offers to its members, it can be a valuable source, especially for those upcoming family road trips. It is good to be familiar with the basics of AAA, the extent of assistance that they can offer, and the other benefits of membership. Make sure you contact your regional AAA office to find information that is pertinent to your area, such as fees, special pricing, and other features and discounts.

Get Help on the Go with Roadside Assistance

One of the two things that AAA is most known for is the roadside assistance service. Members can to call their local or regional office to get help if the car breaks down or if you have an accident. Your membership will cover you even if you are riding with someone who is not a member. Your membership will cover the car in which you are a passenger or if you are driving someone else’s car. Some roadside assistance services would include towing, battery charging, and lockouts if you accidentally lock your keys in the car. AAA can provide referrals to AAA-approved auto repair shops that offers its members special pricing. Be sure to check with your regional office because each office is independently owned and the terms for these services will vary. For instance, one office may provide towing service for up to only three miles free to specific places while other offices will provide over three miles to a location that you designate. The approved auto repair shops would staff mechanics that have a variety of specialties to suit your needs, so you will not have to search for a particular service shop on your own. 

Get Help in Planning Your Vacations

Many people contact AAA for driving directions or for plans for family vacations. The driving itineraries could give you information such as the amount of travel time to and from your destination and which routes would be the best ones to take, especially during those seasons when some states are making road repairs. You may also get information about road closings that are the result of severe weather. You can get information about the weather conditions of your destination as well as lodging, attractions, dining, and entertainment.

Some Surprising Benefits

One thing that surprises people about AAA is that it also offers services such as discounts from various retail partners such as hotels, restaurants, and other stores. You will be able to save money through your membership on items such as shoes, eyeglasses, toys, shipping, jewelry, and furniture. Members can also use the travel agency service to get discounts on car rentals, hotels, and airfare.  A bail bond service, emergency cash acceptance program, and the 24-hour customer service toll-free number are just some of the ways AAA can become a valuable resource for you. If you need more information, you can always call your local chapter or the national toll-free number to get answers to any questions you may have. 

Benefits and Pitfalls of Owning an Asian Car Model

For many years, the American automotive industry has been lagging behind the Asian counterpart in terms of reliability, resale value, and prestige. They consistently earn awards, with some models winning the same awards year after year. Rising fuel costs, financial problems, and management mishaps have plagued the American automakers and the quality of the vehicles suffered. However, recent years have seen many improvements and there has been a slow shifting from the Asian vehicles to American ones. Some people are very loyal to import vehicles and will not accept anything else. If you are in the market for a new car, you should know some of the benefits and pitfalls of owning an import.

The Benefits of the Asian Car Model

America has had a love affair with the vehicle since its invention. America once held the title of being a premier car producer, but competition from the Asian market grew in popularity. They have been regarded as some of the most dependable, affordable, and reliable cars on the market and as a result, their resale value tends to be higher than a comparable American car. These models have the reputation of being made with quality materials and constructed with solid manufacturing standards to produce cars that tend to last longer and use less gas. The technology under the hood also reached the outside of the car and made them very attractive without being trendy. The ability to retain a high resale value while maintaining an appealing aesthetic has propelled Asian car to the top of the global automotive industry. 

The Pitfalls of the Asian Car Model

One thing that detracts from the attractiveness of these imports is that while the resale value tends to be higher than that of domestic models, refinancing imports is a bit more difficult, especially if you purchase a used car. Banks tend to not want to lend money for a used import and will want you to put down a higher down payment. The higher resale value can also place the purchase of a used import out of reach of some consumers who may want an import. Asian car models also tend to be smaller than domestic cars, which can deter some potential buyers who may need a larger car. While the size of a car has no bearing on its safety, some people do believe that a larger car is safer than a smaller car and will let this belief affect their purchasing decision.

What Should Be the Deciding Factor?

The first thing you should do is consider your needs and your location. If you have a large family or need to transport supplies, stock, or anything of size, you would need a larger car. Some foreign carmakers are beginning to fill the need of the American consumers for larger vehicles. If you live in an area that can have severe winters, you would want a car that receives good ratings in vehicle safety. You will want to find a car with such standard features as antilock brakes, driver and passenger seat airbags, and other safety features. The trunk should be roomy enough to be able to include a winter safety kit for emergencies and other roadside tools and kits. Any car that you purchase should be subjected to a rigorous safety inspection, which you can incorporate into your regular general car maintenance schedule.