The record number of aging vehicles on our roadways and colder temperatures in the coming months put drivers at greater risk of a breakdown this winter. With that in mind, AAA is urging vehicle owners to schedule car care now to avoid becoming stranded at the roadside when conditions change.
According to S&P Global, the average age of vehicles on American roadways is a record 12.5 years old, so the winter months will likely take a greater toll on tires, batteries and aging parts.
Previous AAA research shows that vehicles 10 years and older are twice as likely to end up stranded on the side of the road compared to newer vehicles. On top of that, the odds of needing a tow quadruples.
“During last year’s relatively mild winter, AAA responded to almost 65,000 calls for Emergency Roadside Service, just in Oklahoma alone, and almost half of those calls required a tow,” says Rylie Fletcher, spokesperson for AAA in Oklahoma. “October is Car Care Month to ensure that all vehicles, new and old, are ready for day-to-day driving and holiday travel, whenever winter arrives.”
AAA Offers FIVE Most Important Car Care Tips for Older Cars
- Check Battery – Automotive batteries typically last between three and five years. To avoid an unexpected battery failure, AAA recommends that drivers have their vehicle’s battery tested when it reaches three years of age and on an annual basis thereafter. AAA’s Mobile Battery Service offers free battery testing to AAA Members.
- Check Tires – According to the Department of Transportation, there are more than 1.2 million weather-related crashes on U.S. roadways each year. As winter approaches, AAA reminds drivers that worn tires can increase stopping distance and the risk of a crash. AAA urges drivers to check tread depth, replace tires proactively and adjust tire pressure for colder temperatures.
- Check Engine – System failures, such as the radiator, thermostat or water pump, or failure of engine parts, such as the timing belt, are most prominent in vehicles age 10 years and older.
- Check Fluids – Incorrect fluid levels can cause breakdowns or even serious damage. Check all fluids regularly to ensure proper vehicle function and longevity.
- Check Belts and Hoses – Belts and hoses are often neglected, but if they break, your trip will be interrupted. Make sure they are closely inspected and replaced if need be.
Despite advances in vehicle technology, including maintenance reminders and other dashboard alerts, drivers of newer vehicles are still at risk of a breakdown as well.
AAA Tips for Saving on Car Care
- Keep up with basic vehicle maintenance – Ensuring that your tires, your battery and vehicle fluids are all checked in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will minimize the risk – and expense – of a breakdown. Previous AAA research also indicates that putting off car care results in higher repair costs down the road.
- Take advantage of seasonal discounts – During Car Care Month, AAA Car Care locations offer discounts on tires and additional services. Explore your options.
In an effort to encourage car care, AAA is offering a variety of discounts at its local AAA Car Care Insurance and Travel (CCIT) Centers through the end of October:
