May/Jun 2009 Issue

Drivers will spend $22 per day during 2009

For every mile you drive, it will cost you 54.0 cents, which is essentially the same amount that motorists paid last year, according to new figures released by AAA.

While the cost of fuel at the pump has dipped from last year’s record prices, many of the other costs associated with car ownership have climbed, bringing the total cost to drive to $8,095 for the year, which averages out to $22.18 per day for a motorist who drives 15,000 miles per year. The cost per mile fell about one-tenth of a cent compared to driving costs in 2008, when it was 54.1 cents per mile. These results are published in a free brochure called “Your Driving Costs.”

Vehicle operating costs–gasoline, tires and maintenance– dropped by 1.58 cents to 15.42 cents per mile compared to last year. However, ownership costs–insurance, taxes, registration, finance charges and depreciation–rose by 56 cents per day to $15.84 per day. The driving costs are based on the average costs for the five top-selling models in three categories: small, medium and large sedan.

2009 Driving CostsAAA also estimates that the driving costs for four-wheel-drive SUVs will be 68.3 cents per mile in 2009, 1.4 cent less per mile than last year. And the driving costs for minivans will be 58.7 cents per mile, 1.1 cent more than last year.

AAA’s cost estimates are different for business-related use of a personal vehicle. Such payments usually cover operating costs for actual mileage and only a portion of the fixed ownership costs.

To find out what you spend annually on your car, the brochure contains a work sheet. It also features information on vehicle maintenance and more.

For a free copy of the brochure, send a stamped, self-addressed, business-size envelope to: AAA, “Your Driving Costs,” 12901 N. Forty Drive, St. Louis, MO 63141. You can also determine your ownership costs online at www.AAA.com in the automotive section.

brochure

Learn how to maximize your AAA membership

To showcase the services, savings and benefits available to you as a member, AAA is hosting informational presentations at select offices all year long.

The presentations, called Maximize Your Membership, will help you get the most out of your membership and demonstrate how AAA can enhance the quality of your life and save you money. The next meetings will be on Thursday, May 21, 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 presentations will be held at the following locations:

  • 12901 N. Forty Drive in West St. Louis County, (314-523-7350);
  • 4201 S. Noland Road, Suite Y in Independence, Mo., (816) 373-1717;
  • 2277 Highway K in O’Fallon, Mo., (636) 272-2362;
  • 2552 B. South Campbell in Springfield, Mo., (417) 882-8040.
 

 

AAA revs up new online travel booking engine

With AAA’s newly revamped online travel booking application, travelers can experience the convenience of one of the most advanced online travel sites with the peace of mind of AAA.

The new online reservation system, available at AAA.com, offers expanded booking capabilities and faster searches. When you book flights, hotel rooms and rental cars, the system provides easy-to-use tools at competitive rates. A recent study showed that compared to other major online travel sites, AAA.com offers the lowest hotel rates 69 percent of the time.

By using AAA.com, members get new advantages: international flight booking; travelers’ reviews of hotel accommodations and amenities; live round-the-clock telephone customer service; and additional savings when members book flight, hotel and activities together.

AAA.com has also released a new cruise research and booking application. View more cruise lines, see the latest specials and search for cruises faster. You can also see deck plans and videos of select ships. Once you select a cruise, book easily online or contact a AAA Travel agent.

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