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Ignorance isn’t bliss when it comes to car problems—they can be costly and dangerous. Steer clear of car problems down the road by taking action if you experience these six cautionary signs. Follow the links to learn more about each one.
Your nose knows. Some car problems can first be detected by their odors, including scents of rotten eggs and burnt rubber.
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.
Lights on your dashboard can be anything from friendly reminders (your cruise control is on) to dire warnings (your engine is overheating). See how you should react.
Car 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 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.
Car care
At AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities, members get a free multipoint vehicle maintenance inspection upon request and a 10% discount (save up to $50) off labor on regular-priced services. Plus, repairs are backed by a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty.
‡Offer valid through 4/30/2025. Offer valid for Classic/Basic Memberships only. Pricing valid at member join only. Offer excludes Motorcycle coverage. Payment of full AAA Membership dues is required upon renewal. Offers, terms, conditions and restrictions apply and are subject to change without notice. Not combinable with any other offer. Offer not valid in FL, GA, MI or PR. A member can add one eligible family member for free for up to one year. Additional Associates are half price. Associate memberships are available to the Primary member’s spouse, one other adult living in the household, and their children living at the same residence or away at school. Associate members must have the same type of membership as their Primary member, with the exception of Motorcycle. Associate membership expires on the renewal date of Primary member.
Upon activation and with proper identification, AAA will provide regular AAA services and full privileges for the new member. Roadside benefits begin three days after payment of dues. Some restrictions apply. Roadside assistance is provided by independent facilities contracted by AAA. Coverage in taxis, limousines and other ride-sharing conveyances is excluded. Visit AAA.com/MemberHandbook for details about member benefits, including any limitations or restrictions. Offers, terms, conditions and policies are subject to change without notice. Savings partners subject to change. Source: 2023 AAA U.S. Market Track national surveys. Includes service vehicles owned by clubs and service vehicles owned by third parties under contract with AAA to provide services to AAA members. Taxes, fees & options excluded. Terms apply. Partners and offers are subject to change and restrictions apply. For a complete list of offers, visit us online at AAA.com/Save or your local AAA office.
