If you’re a member of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), roadside assistance can be one of the benefits. Unexpected breakdowns are a risk that many drivers face, so it’s important to invest in reliable protection that can help you to manage these events with minimal inconvenience. Learning about this roadside service can help you to take advantage of it effectively. Keep reading to know about AARP roadside assistance.
What Is AARP Roadside Assistance?
AARP roadside assistance is a service offered by AARP to its members through Allstate Roadside. This service involves helping you to get your vehicle the help it needs, so you can continue on your journey and reach your destination. Here are the major services AARP Roadside Assistance offers:
- Towing: AARP offers nationwide towing up to 100 miles to the nearest dealership.
- Tire changes: If you have a flat tire, you can get it changed with your spare at no extra cost.
- Gas refill: Up to two gallons of gas are provided to car owners stranded due to empty tanks. Dispatch costs are covered by AARP, and you will only have to pay for the fuel.
- Lockout: If you’re accidentally locked out of your vehicle, AARP provides lockout services to get you back in your car.
- Battery jumps: In the event that your engine needs a boost, AARP will provide the means to jump-start it. If it does not start, service personnel will help you to get your battery replaced.
Key Advantages of AARP Roadside Assistance
Here are the benefits of investing in this form of roadside assistance:
- It covers a large area. Currently, AARP covers car owners in America and Canada. Its nationwide coverage in the U.S. enables car owners to depend on accessing roadside services.
- It’s consistently available. You can access AARP roadside assistance at any time. This 24/7 availability lets you access the help you need in an emergency.
- It can be extended to household members. Your roadside assistance service can be shared with other members of your household. Adding a few more people to your package does not cost you anything extra. The specific number you can add will depend on each AARP policy.
- It can be extended to cars you don’t own. If you’re renting or borrowing a car, you can continue to benefit from your AARP roadside assistance benefits. This makes it easy for people who have long commutes and are using a borrowed car.
- It offers discounts. You can reduce your rates through discounts. For example, AARP members receive 20% off the annual subscription fee for roadside assistance. Also, you can receive 25% off for automatic renewals.
- It can perform minor repairs. Your AARP roadside assistance service will complete any minor repairs to your vehicle that can be completed quickly. However, major repairs, such as an auto part replacement, will not be covered under the roadside assistance package.
- It can provide reimbursement. With this service, you can claim a trip interruption cost of $1,500 under the AARP Roadside Elite plan.
- It can improve your peace of mind. With your roadside assistance, you have fewer things to worry about in relation to roadside assistance.
How To Get AARP Roadside Assistance
To obtain your AARP roadside assistance, follow these steps:
1. Become an AARP Member
Get your AARP membership to access the roadside assistance service as it’s a key member benefit. While this membership targets people over 50, other age groups can access many of the benefits. Here’s how to become an AARP member:
- Visit the AARP website. When you access the website, find the membership application form.
- Fill in the form with your personal information. You will need to complete the form with your basic information, such as name, date of birth, and the name of your spouse.
- Choose the membership term. Choose from several different terms, such as terms that span one year, three years, or five years. Keep in mind that by paying for multiple years, you can keep your annual subscription cost low.
- Make the payment. Once you have chosen your term, make the payment and get your AARP membership. Membership is $16 per annum or $12 if you sign up for automatic renewals.
2. Identify What You Need
Consider your unique circumstances, such as your household, driving distance, and vehicle age as these factors impact what you need from your coverage. Next, consider your budget and evaluate the necessary roadside services. For example, if your commute takes longer than average, opting for a service that covers a relatively large area, such as 100 miles, makes sense.
3. Research AARP Roadside Assistance Plans
Decide on the roadside assistance plan that works for you. AARP provides two plans, Roadside Assist and Roadside Elite. Here’s a look at these options in greater detail:
- AARP Roadside Assist: This plan costs $62 for the first year and can be extended to two people. Key features include a 10-mile towing coverage and three rescues a year.
- AARP Roadside Elite: Costing $119 initially, this package can offer coverage for two people. It offers a $1,500 benefit if your trip is interrupted as well as seven rescues a year. This package has a 100-mile coverage for towing.
4. Choose the Plan That Suits You
Once you have done the necessary research on your circumstances, preferences, and available AARP roadside assistance plans, choose the plan that suits you best. Read the terms and conditions, such as renewal rates, carefully and make sure to meet the requirements. Make sure to clarify any questions you may have with an AARP or Allstate Roadside representative before purchasing the coverage.
Consequently, AARP roadside assistance can offer you several advantages. After purchasing it, assess your satisfaction and opt for another plan if necessary. This will help you to find the roadside assistance solution that works for you. Get ready to benefit from AARP’s assistance on the road.
At FIXD, our mission is to make car ownership as simple, easy, and affordable as possible. Our research team utilizes the latest automotive data and insights to create tools and resources that help drivers get peace of mind and save money over the life of their car.
