Ask Pete

[#1]

Here we are again! The start of another year! I have come to the conclusion that resolutions I make more often than not are broken, forgotten, ignored or just plain given up on. So this year, I have resolved to not make any resolutions that I am afraid I won’t accomplish. Instead, I am taking the attitude that if there is something I want to accomplish, I will just put my mind to it and make it happen, never looking back. Instead of a “resolution,” I prefer to look at it as a commitment!  

One year ago, I challenged all of you to resolve to take better care of your vehicles in 2011 so you didn’t become one of our road service statistics. To that end, did any of you make—AND KEEP—an automotive-related resolution in 2011? Better yet, did any of you make—AND KEEP—an automotive-related commitment? If so, I would love to hear from you. Please share your success with your fellow bloggers! 

I wish all of you a healthy, prosperous and trouble-free year! 

[#2]

when having work done at a AAA approved garage do I really get 10% off labor or do they just raise the price so it is a wash--or worse yet so it also covers the cost of the free 24 point inspection?

Thanks--Bill

[#3]

I have to admit, after being a member since 1985, I am finally discovering the limitations of my membership.  I am a Plus member, with two family members on my plan.  I only get 4 service calls/renewal year????  Really???  I have rarely used this service or the towing except recently.  I should have >80 service calls saved!!  I realize this is not an option on any membership, but really?  I've been a member for 26 years . . . I think when I purchase a new vehicle, I may take advantage of their roadside service and cancel my AAA.  Just sayin'!

[#4]

wfjohnson7

The 10% discount is taken off the shops normal labor charge.

[#5]

Hi Pete,

I have tried looking online to see what the free 24 point inspection entails but cannot find it. Can you either direct me to the definition or provide a definition of what is provided in a 24 point inspection?

Thank You

[#6]

To wfjohnson7.....

I found the link to the 24 POINT INSPECTION here...

http://autoclubsouth.aaa.com/GPContent/automotive_feature5.aspx

[#7]

Back to AAAPete's question, last year I resolved to file all of my car repairs immediately so that I could keep track of them. I'd say I was fairly committed and did a pretty good job over the course of the year. I'll maintain this commitment this year.

[#8]

That's a great commitment "scout11"!!! That sure makes things easier should an issue arise and you need to research a repair history. Thanks for sharing!

[#9]

Just yesterday I had an oil change but they recommended numerous other repairs were necessary--including a NEW RADIATOR  (cracked and leaking) and a couple of belts.  My car is 10 years old with approx. 85,000 mi. on it.  The grand total for repairs was about $1,300 (including a new set of tires).  Being the "skeptic" that I am (and total idiot regarding car stuff), where should I go to get a SECOND OPINION?  Can a radiator be patched?  Also, where is the best place to take my car--other than the dealership which has always been the highest with their estimates.  This is a lot of money for me since I am now on Social Security and I'm not sure it's a smart thing to put expensive repairs into a 10-year-old car.  HELP! 

[#10]

Radiators have changed dramatically over the past 10 -15 years and the art of radiator repair is one that is fading into the sunset. Anymore a replacement radiator can be ordered by just about any parts store and installed by most any general repair technician. AAA has a network of repair facilities they have inspected and approved for workmanship, customer service, insurance, etc. A list of the AAA shops near you can be found on AAA.com, go to the automotive tab and find the facility search feature.

And I DO NOT recommend using a stop leak of any kind!