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– Updated August 2026 –
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AAA Members receive a free vehicle maintenance inspection upon request with any paid service at a nearby AAA-owned Car Care Center or AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, a 36-month/36,000-mile guarantee on repairs at AAA-owned Car Care locations, and a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. Members also receive a 10% discount on repair labor (save up to $75).
Ignorance isn’t bliss when it comes to issues with your car, as they can be costly and dangerous. Steer clear of car problems down the road by taking action now if you experience any of these six cautionary signs. Follow the links to learn more about each one.
A wet spot on the pavement under your car isn’t necessarily a crisis, but any leak needs to be investigated right away. It could just be water condensation from your air conditioning, or it could be something more serious. Identify what that puddle is and where it's coming from.
When you hear a noise that you haven’t heard before, don’t assume it’s just the sound of your vehicle aging and is nothing to worry about. Here are car noises you shouldn’t ignore.
Illuminated lights on your dashboard can be anything from a friendly reminder (your cruise control is on) to a dire warning (your engine is overheating). See how you should react.
If you’re a DIYer who only goes to a repair shop when necessary, take note: AAA Members save 10% off the retail price and earn NAPA Rewards at NAPA Auto Parts, both sitewide and in-store, on thousands of automotive products. Plus, save $22 off retail pricing on AAA vehicle batteries.
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Vehicle problems described in recall letters are serious—and depending on the safety issue, driving an unrepaired vehicle can be dangerous. Find out how to handle a recall notice.
Even small windshield chips should be repaired. If left alone, they can grow or take on water, fogging up the windshield and obstructing vision. Here’s what to do when your windshield takes a hit.
Look for damage and unusual tread wear—a sign of under- or overinflation, poor wheel alignment or a problem with your car’s suspension. See how to use a quarter to check your tire tread depth.
Taking your vehicle to the shop for routine maintenance, such as an oil change or tire rotation, is one of the best ways to prevent it from breaking down on the road, but that alone isn’t enough to ensure a vehicle won’t ever break down. Having it periodically inspected by a certified technician helps identify problems before they stop you in your tracks.
Not a AAA Member? Learn how your membership can help you in all stages of life, on and off the road.
Join Today!Investigate it immediately. It could be harmless water condensation from your air conditioning, or it could signal a serious issue. Identifying the source of the leak early can prevent costly repairs down the road.
Any noise you haven't heard before is worth taking seriously. Strange sounds are often early warning signs of mechanical issues, and ignoring them can lead to bigger, more expensive problems.
Dashboard lights range from minor notifications (like cruise control being active) to urgent warnings (like an overheating engine). Always investigate an unfamiliar light as soon as it appears.
Take it seriously. Driving a vehicle with an unresolved recall can be dangerous. Contact your manufacturer or dealership as soon as possible to arrange a repair.
Yes. Even a minor chip can grow over time or trap water, fogging up your windshield and reducing visibility. Fixing it early is far cheaper than replacing the entire windshield.
Look for visible damage and unusual tread wear, which can indicate poor inflation, wheel misalignment or suspension issues. You can use a quarter to check your tire tread depth at home.
running smoothly
AAA Members receive a free vehicle maintenance inspection upon request with any paid service at a nearby AAA-owned Car Care Center or AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, a 36-month/36,000-mile guarantee on repairs at AAA-owned Car Care locations, and a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. Members also receive a 10% discount on repair labor (save up to $75).
