Although designed to last longer than in years’ past, belts and hoses can be damaged due to seasonal temperature change, age and driving conditions. A leaky hose can damage the engine, a broken belt can cause the engine to overheat, stop running or even be damaged beyond repair. Avoid a tow by having drive belts, timing belts and coolant hoses checked for damage and wear.

With less daylight at this time of year, strong working headlights are a must. Make sure all bulbs working.  Unlike glass, plastic covers on headlights – found on most vehicles today – react to oxygen, sunlight, UV rays, high temperatures and moisture and can become cloudy and hazy.  There are a few household products that can improve clarity in the headlights, or a professional can restore or replace them. The important thing is not to ignore the problem…good visibility on the road is critical to your safety. For more on headlights and mechanics recommendations, check out this Your AAA article.

When roads are wet or slick with snow and ice, good tires may be the difference between getting to your destination or having to call for a tow. Tire treads below 4/32^nd of an inch of depth can take a dangerously long time to stop in poor conditions. Have a professional examine your tires. Discuss your driving habits to determine if winter tires would be a good investment. Learn more about winterizing your tires here.

Fluids – oil, transmission and coolant – are the life’s blood of your vehicle. If they are allowed to become contaminated or run low, they can cause catastrophic damage to the components they are designed to protect. A good technician will check your fluids at every visit and advise on replacement. And, don’t forget windshield washer fluid, especially in winter weather.

Brake wear is one of the few issues almost totally determined by the driver. In general, most car brakes can last 40,000 miles or more, although aggressive drivers or very cautious drivers can accelerate brake wear. Many vehicles have a warning sensor that creates a high-pitched squeal when the brake linings are almost worn out. Brake condition should be checked periodically by your qualified technician. Learn more about how to care for your brakes.

Running this family-owned business for more than 30 years, Marc and Paul Rego believe much of their success comes from being involved in the community. “Every customer is like family, and every experience with us should be a good one,” says Marc. The business has grown with the times, growing from an auto parts store (Marxparts Unlimited) into a full-service repair facility. They sell used vehicles as well and are a NAPA AutoCare Center. The owners promote Automotive Service Excellence Certification (ASE) for their technicians, knowing future growth lies in developing the technical, management and product skills of their employees.

 

Marx Auto Center maintained satisfaction scores of 97.1 with members!

 

Tom and Carol Elliott have run the company since 1987 and joined AAA as an Approved Auto Repair facility in 2000. The shop has consistently provided world-class service, which is reflected in their scores. Danvers is always willing to provide AAA with support for their programs and is a great ambassador of the AAA brand and the motto “to help and serve our members.”

 

Offering a wide variety of services from their trained technicians, the shop has maintained member satisfaction scores of 94.7 this year!

 

Owned and operated by Sam Ellahi, Tire Tech has been an AAR for 9 of their 17 years in business. The shop provides multiple repair services and AAA roadside assistance. Ellahi and his staff have worked tirelessly to serve their community, especially during the Covid19 pandemic. When other shops had to close or reduce services, Tire Tech expanded their business hours, worked in the community to provide meals to families who couldn’t leave their homes, and supported and raised funds for animal organizations. “It’s not a business decision, it’s a community decision,” says Ellahi. “Our team feels connected to the entire community, whether they’re customers of ours or not.”

 

The customers certainly value the shop, giving them satisfaction scores of 92.3 for the year.

 

Guilford Texaco is no stranger to winning awards, having been honored with the top Gold Award as a national Service Provider of Excellence twice. Key to their success is communication, hard work and attention to detail. Owners Jim and Ernie Betulia ensure their customers have the best experience possible, from keeping them informed about their service to bringing them water during summer roadside calls. “Every member interaction is an opportunity for success,” says Ernie.

 

Guilford is making the most of those member interactions, garnering stratospheric member satisfaction scores of 98.3!