Three reasons why you need a roadside assistance package

Roadside assistance

I recently re-upped my contract with my roadside assistance provider. A change in banks blocked an automatic payment so I had to pay more attention to matter. And it got me thinking — there are three very good reasons why every driver today needs a roadside assistance provider.

12-volt Battery

The first is your 12-volt start battery. I’ve had three go flat on me over the years and the last two times, they gave virtually no warning. The last time, it worked in the morning and not that afternoon while away from home. The charge system warning light warns only of low voltage in the charge system, not a failing battery, despite its appearance.

In that instance I ended up calling a friend for help, after which, to his relief, I immediately signed up with AAA.

Flat Tires

The second is flat tires. I’m perfectly capable of putting a spare tire on my car, but like all too many of us today, my car does not have a spare. I’m also embarrassed to admit that I’m not sure how to use the inflation kit that is provided, but I do know that the inflator will only work in limited cases. Ripping up a tire in a pot hole, for instance, will require new rubber, and a tow.

Lock Outs

Finally, the third is lock outs. From the dead battery we spoke of above to the failure of a key fob, you may very well find yourself unable to open your car. And having an app on your smart phone is not a panacea — if the phone’s battery is weak it will automatically shut down the necessary Bluetooth connection to save power.

And you’ll want that juice to call for help!

Note that Hyundai, Kia, and BMW all have models that provide a separate mechanical key, not one embedded in the fob. Also, We have opened fobs from Ford and Land Rover that were missing the mechanical keys that were supposed to be inside!

Roadside Assistance Numbers

As I noted, my provider happens to be AAA, but there are plenty of others. We have a list on our website you can see here.

Of course, if you are under warranty in a new or certified pre-owned vehicle, you likely have roadside assistance from the manufacturer. Our list includes those numbers as well.

But, if you are like most drivers out there, your car is not carrying a roadside program. You may have coverage through your insurance company. Check you policy (we have insurance company phone numbers on the site as well).

One way or another, we highly recommend that you carry some sort of roadside assistance. Even a problem only a mile or two from home can become a major headache.

——————————————————————-

The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

Privacy Policy