AAA South Jersey — September/October 2012
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Tips For Managing Car Repairs

Tips for Managing Car Repairs

If you’re like most consumers, you spent more than $7,700 on vehicle ownership last year. That’s more than 17 percent of the average family budget. And, because vehicle repairs often occur at inconvenient times, additional stress may surface due to the financial strain.

Proper vehicle maintenance is one way to decrease mechanical breakdowns and their associated repair costs. Performing routine maintenance like tire rotations, oil changes and other fluid checks can keep your vehicle’s engine parts in good working condition. Maintenance visits also provide your technician the opportunity to inspect your vehicle and alert you to potential problems, so you can plan for repairs.

But, even well-maintained vehicles can break down. Managing unexpected costs is a challenge. An extended warranty plan is one option for covering mechanical repair costs. These plans, also called mechanical breakdown insurance or vehicle service contracts, cover major repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

You pay a one-time fee, plus a deductible for each repair, and your vehicle is covered for the mileage specified under the coverage you select … up to 100,000 miles!When selecting an extended coverage plan, carefully compare each offering, as covered repairs may vary from plan to plan. And, to avoid unpleasant surprises,i. e., exclusions, special conditions, etc., make sure you read the “fine print.” Look for a policy that covers all major repairs and allows you to use your choice of repair providers with no hidden clauses.

Perhaps the toughest question you face at repair time is where to take your vehicle.AAA has solved this challenge with the AAA Approved Auto Repair Network – facilities that are inspected by AAA and meet its stringent criteria. Look for the AAA sign, or visit aaa.com to find a facility near you.

A good rule of thumb is to find a repair facility before you need one. Develop a relationship with a technician – visit the facility, schedule routine maintenance, ask questions. You’ll feel more confident – and comfortable – when repairs are needed.

Car problems can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to manage auto repairs.

AAA has a solution that can help you control vehicle repair costs. The AAA Repair Assurance Plan covers your vehicle’s major repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired. This simple plan offers three levels of coverage so you can select the one that best meets your needs and, depending on the coverage you choose, may cover all major repairs for up to 100,000 odometer miles. And, even better, a unique benefit to AAA members is the reduced deductible when repairs are performed by a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility.

The AAA Repair Assurance Plan makes it easy to get your car repaired – no complicated paperwork or claims procedures. Repairs can be completed by one of AAA’s more than 7,800 approved shops or at the facility of your choice.

Find out more about a AAA Repair Assurance Plan today and get on the road to stress-free car repairs. For details and a free quote, call 1-800-476-0770 or visit aaa.com/repair
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