Yeah, I get where you’re coming from. It’s not just you—wait times are creeping up everywhere, even in places you’d expect to have a ton of coverage. Like you said:
Used to be you’d get someone out in 30-40 minutes tops. Feels like they’re just stretched thin everywhere now, not just rural spots.
- Had a similar experience last fall. Got stuck on the shoulder right outside Philly, figured I’d be outta there quick. Ended up scrolling through my phone for almost 90 minutes before anyone showed up. Not exactly what I signed up for.
- I’ve heard a lot of folks say it’s a staffing issue. Maybe too many people using the service, or maybe fewer tow companies partnering with them? Hard to say, but it definitely doesn’t feel as reliable as it used to.
- On the flip side, I had one random instance where they showed up in 20 minutes flat. Total fluke though—most times lately, it’s been an hour or more.
It’s frustrating because AAA used to be my go-to for peace of mind on road trips. Now I’m always second-guessing whether it’s worth renewing or if I should look at alternatives (though honestly, not sure any of the other options are much better).
Guess we’re all just rolling the dice these days. At least you’re not alone in feeling let down by the wait times... seems like it’s become the new normal, unfortunately.
Yeah, I hear you—it’s a real toss-up now. Used to be, I’d recommend AAA to friends without even thinking about it, but lately those wait times are rough. I had a client who waited almost two hours for a flat in the middle of the afternoon, and that’s just not what you expect. I get there’s staffing issues everywhere, but when your whole pitch is peace of mind, that’s a tough sell. I still keep my membership since the roadside coverage is better than nothing, but honestly, I double-check my spare tire every trip now... just in case.
- Totally get what you mean about peace of mind... lately it feels more like “cross your fingers and hope for the best.”
- I still renew for the towing, but I’m way more careful now—keep a portable air compressor and tire sealant in the trunk just in case.
- Had a similar experience last month—waited 90 minutes on a busy highway shoulder. Not ideal with a car that cost as much as a small condo.
- Guess it comes down to risk vs. reward. Still better than nothing, but I’m not relying on them like I used to.
- Double-checking your spare is smart. These days, can’t be too careful.
I get the frustration with long wait times, but I’ve noticed that’s not unique to AAA—seems like most roadside services are stretched thin these days. One thing I’d point out: the towing coverage still saves a ton if you ever need a long-distance tow. Had a client who needed a 60-mile tow last winter, and AAA covered it when their regular insurance would’ve charged extra. Not perfect, but sometimes it’s still worth it for those rare emergencies. Just wish response times were more consistent...
the towing coverage still saves a ton if you ever need a long-distance tow
That’s fair, but how often do most people actually need a 60-mile tow? I get the value in emergencies, but if you’re waiting two hours for a jump, is it really worth the yearly fee? Maybe I’m just too impatient...
