By Joanna Newton

A certified mechanic at Dale’s Auto Service in Lutz, FL, gives a AAA member advice on what’s needed to repair her vehicle.

When AAA Auto Club South rescued more than 2.2 million drivers from the roadsides last year, it had the opportunity to learn about thousands of potential car problems. Unlike any other emergency road service provider, AAA has the size and history to identify almost every car problem. Therefore, AAA can determine what the average service bill should be for your next repair, and what shop in your area is the best at making that repair and giving you excellent customer service.

AAA’s experience servicing so many members with emergency breakdowns has resulted in major changes to the way services are provided. AAA has used its knowledge of common car repairs, and its experience working with hundreds of auto repair facilities for more than 100 years, to understand what it takes to provide members with superior service.

Through the Approved Auto Repair Program, AAA guarantees members will receive quality auto care service from facilities that have passed stringent standards for manpower, appearance, equipment, customer service and scope of automotive services provided.

AAA continuously monitors the performance of qualified facilities, ensuring that stringent minimum standards are constantly maintained. More important to you, these facilities have agreed, by contract, to accept AAA as an independent and final authority in the case of a dispute over repairs performed. They agree to:

• Offer you a written estimate, which cannot be exceeded by 10 percent without your authorization.
• Provide a limited warranty on repairs for a period of 12 months or 12,000 miles (for most repairs, unless otherwise noted), whichever comes first.
• Upon your request, make available to you any replaced parts, not including parts to be returned to the manufacturer under warranty or exchange policy.
• Cooperate fully with AAA in the investigation and resolution of any dispute involving the repair facility and a AAA member, and abide by AAA’s decision.

Don’t forget, as a member you are entitled to a Free Maintenance Inspection (a $24.95 value) at all Approved Auto Repair facilities, upon request. The facility will inspect your car for items most frequently contributing to roadside breakdowns, and will then provide recommendations for any needed maintenance or repairs.

So the next time you need a good auto mechanic, don’t just ask your neighbor or co-worker. Look to AAA for not just a recommendation on which shop to use, but as your independent automotive advocate.

Visit aaa.com/auto, call 1-800-AAA-HELP, or visit your AAA branch to find an Approved Auto Repair facility near you.

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