AAA – Before Hitting the Road

• Battery & Charging System: Have the battery and charging system tested—especially if the battery is over three years old. Clean corrosion and ensure connections are secure. AAA Mobile Battery Service and AAA Approved Auto Repair can test/replace batteries.
• Wipers & Washer Fluid: Replace streaking wiper blades and fill the washer reservoir with a bug and debris removing solution.
• Coolant: Check coolant when the engine is cold. Add a 50/50 coolant mix if low. Inspect belts, hoses, and clamps for wear.
• Tires: Inspect tread depth, examine wear patterns, and check tire pressure when the tires are cold. Tires with less than 4/32” tread provide less traction on wet roads. Remember to check the spare tire as well.
• Brakes: Have brakes inspected per manufacturer guidance or if you notice warning lights, low fluid indicator, pulsation, pulling, grinding, or other noise when braking.
• Lights: Check all bulbs and clean cloudy lenses. Weathered headlights can be restored professionally or with DIY kits.
• Oil: Change oil and filter at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals using the correct oil.
• Engine & Performance: Replace the air filter as recommended. Address “check engine” lights and fix issues like hard starts, rough idling, stalling, or low power.
• Transmission Fluid: Confirm fluid is full; top off if needed. Some newer vehicles have sealed systems requiring service only if a leak is present.

AAA Emergency Kit Musts
• A well-prepared emergency kit should include a phone and charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, or a jump pack, and a set of basic tools.
• Drivers should also pack a tarp, rain gear, gloves, and cleaning supplies such as rags, paper towels, or wipes.
• Warning devices such as flares, triangles, or LED beacons are important for roadside visibility, along with a first aid kit, water, snacks, and washer solvent.
• For added traction in slippery conditions, items such as sand, salt, non-clumping cat litter, or traction mats can also be helpful.
• AAA members save 10% off the retail price of thousands of quality auto parts at participating NAPA Auto Parts Stores.