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AAA warns of increased breakdown risk as U.S. car age hits record


Traffic in Baltimore (WBFF)
Traffic in Baltimore (WBFF)
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With the average age of vehicles on U.S. roads reaching a record 12.8 years, AAA is urging summer travelers to take precautionary measures to avoid breakdowns.

Ragina Cooper Ali, spokesperson for AAA in Maryland and Washington, D.C., highlighted the importance of ensuring vehicles are summer-ready, especially as more than 61 million Americans, including 1.3 million Marylanders and 1.65 million D.C. area residents, prepare to travel for the 4th of July holiday.

"With the excessive heat we’re seeing, ensuring your vehicle is summer-ready is even more critical," said Ali, via a press release.

S&P Global Mobility reports that the average vehicle age is two months older than last year and four months older than the year before. AAA research indicates that vehicles 10 years and older are twice as likely to experience roadside breakdowns compared to newer models.

Ben Perricone, AAA’s Approved Auto Repair Territory Manager, noted that last summer, AAA responded to over 138,000 Emergency Roadside Service calls in Maryland alone, with more than 27% related to battery issues and over 44% requiring a tow. In the D.C. Metro area, AAA handled more than 241,000 service calls, with similar statistics.

"From batteries to tires and literally everything in between, summer’s heat can take a toll on your vehicle," said Perricone, via a press release. "Drivers who have side-stepped basic car care may pay a steep price."

To help drivers avoid breakdowns, AAA has released a seven-step preventative maintenance checklist, which includes battery testing, tire checks, brake inspections, fluid maintenance, wiper blade replacement, electrical system checks, and belt and hose inspections.

"It’s not just about the inconvenience and expense of a breakdown or tow. Basic maintenance of car parts such as tires or brakes is critical to driver and vehicle safety," Perricone added.

AAA also offers tips for saving on car care, including free bumper-to-bumper health checks at AAA Car Care Centers, discounts on repairs, and budgeting advice for unexpected car repairs.

Despite advances in vehicle technology, AAA emphasizes that even newer vehicles are at risk of breakdowns.

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