I've had decent experiences with AAA overall, but you're right—it's not always consistent. If you're budget-conscious and safety-oriented, I'd recommend comparing your insurer's roadside coverage carefully: check response times, towing distance limits, and service call limits per year before switching...
I've generally stuck with AAA because it's familiar, but I agree consistency can be hit or miss. Had one experience where they showed up super quick in the middle of nowhere, then another time waited almost two hours in the city...go figure. Curious if anyone's found roadside coverage through their regular insurer that's actually better overall—especially in terms of reliability and response times?
I've had similar mixed experiences with AAA. One time, they arrived within 20 minutes when my battery died at night—huge relief—but another time, I waited nearly two hours for a flat tire in broad daylight. I've been thinking about switching to roadside coverage through my regular insurance (State Farm), but I'm hesitant... Has anyone tried them? I'm mostly concerned about reliability and quick response times, especially in less populated areas.
"I've been thinking about switching to roadside coverage through my regular insurance (State Farm), but I'm hesitant... Has anyone tried them?"
I've been with State Farm's roadside assistance for a couple years now, and honestly, it's been pretty solid overall. AAA definitely isn't as consistent as they used to be—I had a similar experience waiting forever in the middle of the day. State Farm contracts local tow companies, so response times really depend on who's available nearby rather than their own fleet. In my experience, that's usually a good thing because it means there's usually someone close by, even in rural areas.
Last winter I got stuck on a back road after dark—middle of nowhere—and they showed up within 30 minutes. On the flip side though, I've heard from friends that sometimes response can be slower if you're unlucky and no one's immediately available. Still, for what you pay compared to AAA membership fees, I'd say it's worth giving State Farm a shot. At least you won't be paying extra just for roadside coverage you're rarely using anyway...
I've thought about switching to State Farm too, but I'm still a bit wary.
"response times really depend on who's available nearby rather than their own fleet."
Doesn't that mean you're kinda rolling the dice every time you call them? I'd worry about consistency, especially late at night or in bad weather...
