AAA aids motorists who are keeping cars longer

With increasingly reliable cars, a lingering recession and a tight credit market, motorists are keeping their cars longer than ever, so AAA is offering two solutions to aid motorists who are visiting the mechanic more than the new car showroom.

The downturn in the economy led to a decline in new car sales in the United States by nearly 20 percent in 2008. With fewer new cars on the road, the risk of repair increases for consumers’ older cars. To help, AAA’s Approved Auto Repair (AAR) program and mechanical repair agreements can minimize those risks for members.

From older cars to the latest models, AAA’s nationwide network of AAR shops is ready to meet your automotive maintenance and repair needs. These facilities have been inspected and are tested annually to ensure they meet the stringent quality service criteria established by AAA.

To be approved, facilities must be able to handle almost any type of automotive problem. They must be staffed by certified technicians and have the up-to-date equipment needed to diagnose and repair a wide variety of cars. The facilities must also demonstrate a high level of customer satisfaction.

Any motorist can look to the AAR logo as assurance of a facility’s reliability, but AAA members get extra benefits, including guaranteed written estimates, a free vehicle inspection with any paid service and a 12-month/12,000-mile warranty. In the unlikely event you have concerns about a shop’s performance, AAA will investigate and resolve the situation. For a list of AAR shops, turn to page 15, call (800) 222-7623 ext. 6821 or visit the Web site www.AAA.com/repair.

To further protect you from unexpected and costly repairs, AAA has mechanical repair agreement plans with flexibility to choose coverage and terms (months, miles and deductible) to match your vehicle and driving habits. Issued by AAA partner The Warranty Group, each plan is valid at any licensed repair facility, transferable if you sell your vehicle and can be cancelled at any time on a prorated basis. Repair facilities are paid directly by the plan.

If your car has less than 100,000 miles and is under 10 years old, you may be eligible to take advantage of these plans. For more details or a free quote, call (800) 222-7623 ext. 6820 or visit online at www.AAA.com/ warranty.

Facilities in AAA’s Approved Auto Repair program must meet strict service criteria.

Learn how to maximize your membership

To help you get the most out of your membership, AAA is hosting informational presentations at select offices all year long to showcase the services, savings and benefits available to you.
The presentations, called Maximize Your Membership, examine how your membership can enhance the quality of your life and save you money. The next meetings will be on Thursday, March 19, at 2 p.m.

Among the topics will be AAA’s competitive auto and homeowner’s insurance and the exclusive discounts offered by AAA Travel. Members also will learn about the Show Your Card & Save® program, which offers discounts at thousands of retailers nationwide.

The meetings will be held at the following locations:

• 12901 N. Forty Drive in West St. Louis County, (314-523-7350);
• 8235 Forsyth Blvd. in Clayton, Mo., (314-862-8021);
• 15810 B Shawnee Mission Parkway in Shawnee, Kan., (913) 248-1627.