I get the frustration, but I’m not sure it’s just the app or staffing. Traffic’s gotten worse, and I’ve noticed more people using roadside services in general. Last time I called, the guy said he’d already done six jumps that morning. Maybe it’s just higher demand?
That’s a good point about demand. I hadn’t really thought about how much busier the roads are now—feels like everyone’s out and about, and half of us are driving cars that probably need a tune-up. I do wonder if AAA just isn’t keeping up with the times, though. Like, shouldn’t they be hiring more folks if calls are up? Or maybe updating their tech so it’s easier to track where your driver is?
Last time I had a flat, I waited almost two hours. Not the end of the world, but when you’re sitting on the shoulder watching your coffee get cold, you start wondering if it’s worth the yearly fee. Is it just me, or does it seem like they used to be faster? Maybe my memory’s just fuzzy... or maybe my patience is thinner these days. Either way, I’m starting to keep jumper cables and a tire inflator in my trunk—just in case. Anyone else going full DIY lately?
I totally get where you’re coming from—waiting on the shoulder is the worst, especially when you start counting every car that passes and wondering if you should just try to fix it yourself. I remember back in college, AAA would show up before I even finished explaining where I was. Now, last winter, I had a dead battery at a rest stop and it took them almost three hours to get to me. I ended up making friends with the guy parked next to me, but still, it was a long wait.
Lately, I’ve been packing more gear too. Got a jump starter, a tire plug kit, and one of those little air compressors. Never thought I’d actually use them, but last month I helped a stranger with a flat in a grocery store lot. Felt good to not have to wait around for help.
I still keep my AAA card, mostly for the longer trips, but I don’t rely on it like I used to. Maybe it’s just the times changing, or maybe we’re all getting a bit more self-sufficient. Either way, can’t hurt to be prepared.
I still keep my AAA card, mostly for the longer trips, but I don’t rely on it like I used to.
Honestly, same here. Used to feel like AAA was a safety net, now it’s more like a backup plan. I’ve had better luck with my own jump starter than waiting for roadside lately. Guess being prepared is just part of road tripping now.
Yeah, I get what you mean about AAA feeling more like a backup these days. Used to be, I’d call them for anything—locked keys in the car, dead battery, even just a flat. Now I’ve got a portable jump starter and a tire inflator in the trunk, just in case. Feels like you have to cover your own bases more than ever.
- Wait times seem longer than they used to be. Last time I called for a tow, it was almost two hours before anyone showed up.
- The coverage isn’t as broad as I remember. Some of the perks (like free maps or discounts) don’t really matter much now with smartphones and apps.
- I still keep the card for peace of mind on longer trips, especially if I’m driving somewhere rural or unfamiliar.
I’ve had better luck with my own jump starter than waiting for roadside lately.
Same here. Those little lithium jump packs are a game changer. Used mine twice last winter when my old battery kept dying. Didn’t even bother calling AAA.
One thing I do worry about is bigger breakdowns—like if the car just quits on the highway or something more serious than a dead battery. That’s where AAA still feels worth it, even if it’s not as fast as it used to be.
Curious if anyone’s actually dropped their membership? Or switched to something else? I keep thinking about it but haven’t pulled the trigger yet... just feels risky not having some kind of backup, even if it’s not perfect.
