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Reviewed June 11, 2012
AAA damaged my daughter's car and won't reimburse me for the charges. They came out 2 times to open my daughter's car and they damaged the door. I had it repaired and they won't pay for the damage.
Reviewed June 7, 2012
I arrived at AAA for assistance in planning a trip to Europe. I sat down with Ms. Trish ** and asked for her help for making reservations for seats on the Eurail with my Eurail pass. She proceeded to show me the Rail Europe website. There is no fault in this. Though, frankly, it was of no help to me. So, I then gently informed her that I had already done what she was showing me, but was hoping that there were more options. There were not. Ergo, since I quickly began to see that I was not going to make much progress in what I came to do, I decided to see if she might have any advice for someone traveling to Europe for the first time. I asked her if she knew any "tricks of the trade" and this was when my experience quickly went downhill.
Ms. ** proceeded to tell me that if I was planning on visiting any of the cathedrals in Italy (this was when she gestured to me and my outfit), she informed me that I cannot dress sexy or show any cleavage (implying that I was dressing sexily and revealing cleavage then and there). Her tone was full of condescension! I will admit that I had my sunglasses resting on the neckline of my shirt that, by their own weight, weighed down the shirt. However, I am a very modest individual. I was wearing black pants and a cotton blouse that did not have sleeves, but fully covered my shape. It is the summertime in Florida!
I felt extremely insulted and offended by her comments about my clothing. I have no intention of seducing anyone with my clothing and was taken off guard because I had no reason to suggest that what I was wearing was anything but modest. I intentionally try to dress modestly! Regardless, I have never had any issues with AAA or anyone working for AAA prior to this occasion. We appreciate the service that we usually get from AAA and consider this the exception to our normal experience.
Reviewed June 5, 2012
I had my first experience with AAA battery replacement back in February 2011, and at that time, I was glad to be a member and have that service available. The technician came, did the check, and was able to tell me that my current (original) was needing replacement. So finding out that it going to be $115 to change, I said to go ahead and replace it. That was a nice convenience when you are stuck at a fastfood parking lot.
The battery has been fine until just last Saturday and Sunday (June 2 and 3). Three times I needed to call for service! On the first call, I was stuck about 35 miles away from my home. It was checked to see if the battery was bad, and it didn't say in the report that it was bad. So, the driver said I could drive it and it would get its voltage back after about 30 minutes. The next time I went out to start it, it was dead. So the next day, I had made revised plans because I needed help to carry equipment from a friend.
The next day (Sunday), I called them again, got a jump to get going again, drove the car down on the freeway, and made a big loop to build up the voltage. This time, I let it sit for 30 minutes and tried to start it again; nothing. I called the service a third time (It's the same guy on the same day.). I was assuming that I could just ask for a replacement battery from AAA since I had this problem. This driver told me that he couldn't replace it if the print-out said that there's nothing wrong with the battery. He told me his hands were tied because of policy.
It seemed like no problem when they wanted to replace a battery made by a different maker! So, I jumped it myself and got it down to my trusted mechanic, and he said that battery was bad so I could fight for a replacement or just get one (with a trusted name) from him. So this is my venting by complaining about this service that I thought was a quality program, but by seeing other complaints, I guess I'm not alone.
Reviewed May 25, 2012
I have been an AAA member for 29 years and just realized today that attraction discounts are only available regionally. I am now in NY and am barred from any attraction discounts. Also, it took me 4 calls to figure that out as all the initial staff between regions said I could do it and kept on referring me on. Very frustrating.
Reviewed May 16, 2012
We purchased a battery two years ago from AAA with a five-year warranty and the battery began leaking acid after one year. AAA service was out 7 times on the battery issue, every time told us the battery needed to be replaced and the battery person would be out to do it. The battery person would show up and tell us he would not replace the battery; they would not honor the warranty. We finally replaced the battery and the battery cables damaged by the leaking acid. Never purchase a battery from AAA.
Reviewed May 15, 2012
My wife's battery, which was replaced by an AAA driver, died. It was still under a prorated warranty in which approximately 40% of the costs should have been covered. She called roadside assistance and they jump-started her car, but claimed they did not have the equipment to test the battery or replace it. She had her battery receipt in her glove compartment. The next morning, her battery went dead again. I jump-started it myself and she took it to our mechanic. He checked the battery and said it needed replacement and then cleaned the contacts. We called AAA to come out and replace the battery since we had the warranty. The driver claimed that the battery did not need to be replaced.
My wife's engine light kept going on and after jump-starting her car two more times, we had no choice but to go to a mechanic that we trusted and have the battery replaced. Since then, the car had been running perfectly. I called AAA three times to complain about the poor service we received and to request reimbursement and I was told that I will be contacted by a local rep for the company. It has been more than three weeks and I still haven't been contacted. I keep asking that something be done, but the person in the "Fair Play" division keeps telling me that it's out of their hands and that the local rep has to contact me.
Since no one had made any attempt to contact me, I have begun to lose my patience at the complete ineptitude and lack of caring that I am receiving from AAA. I don't know where to go from here since the people I talk to act powerless and keep passing the buck to someone who had made not attempt to resolve the matter with me. This is extremely bad customer service.
Reviewed April 19, 2012
Your associate Tina ** bragged that if we are ever in roadside trouble, she and/or AAA can assist. On 4/6/2012, my car had a flat tire on 77 at mile marker 11.9. The 1st associate showed up, saying my spare was flat and he would call in. Tina called me on numerous occasions. 2 hours passed, and there's no tow and no call from anyone but her. And IMAP could not touch my vehicle because of AAA. A friend had to come to fix the tire. To date, I've yet to receive an explanation as to why I sat on the side of road for 2 1/2 hours apologizing for poor service.
On another note, your driver would stand in bars drunk, bragging about how she can tow anyone. I hope she doesn't do that drunk, because her sober service is worse. Also, are your trucks supposed to be parked at the home of the drivers on the weekends? Maybe, that is why I couldn't get service. Needless to say, my father said his point was proven why he would not pay for your service.
Tina assured me she would.have reason as to why no one showed, and it is April 18 and nothing. I'm sadly disappointed and will not recommend your service. It seems more of your drivers are too busy partying the night before which hinders their ability to help those of us stranded on the side of the roads for 2 hours.
Reviewed April 19, 2012
AAA has been getting more and more expensive and it has reached to the point where I am unable to come up with the entire cost of a Premium membership (the standard membership has become so limited that it is almost worthless). I am forced to depend upon an older car and I am older and disabled myself with a small fixed income. I expressed this complaint when I was in FL and was assured that AAA was instituting a payment plan option for its dues. I moved to PA in the meantime and now am told that this option is not offered. Oh, they'll take payments but with no coverage during the time that it's taking place. Three months without any service and they are accumulating my money. I think that is discriminatory against the low income elderly population.
Reviewed April 15, 2012
When I opened the hood, he looked from 4 inches away and said this battery was fried, it was shot. I asked if he could test the battery and he did. He said it had a dead cell and the meter said do not try to jump start this battery because of this condition, it may explode and cause an injury. I finally got him to try to jump start the car with his battery pack. He said it would not start because of a dead cell. He said he had heavy duty batteries in the truck and if I had jumper cables, he'd try and start the car. All he tried to do was sell me a $105.00 battery I did not need. I was 2/12 hours late for work and I had to take the battery out of my other car so I would not have to transfer all my tools and equipment to my family car.
When I got home, I took the battery to advance auto. It needed to be charged, there was not a dead cell. It was a good battery. The driver tried to rip me off. My day started at 9AM and did not end till 9:30PM because of this service call and lost 6 hours of work hours.
Reviewed April 12, 2012
Battery will not hold charge. My mechanic charged it. I have also charged the battery, and it will not hold charge. Please replace battery or refund my money. I have been a member since 1969. For 43 years, I've paid the membership fees and expected to be treated fairly. I have not been treated fairly. My vehicle is now in my mechanic's shop being serviced.
Reviewed March 29, 2012
I called AAA to request assistance with unlocking my car. A man showed up 30 minutes after I was told he would arrive. He unlocked my car and then began making inappropriate comments about my body. I had my husband on the phone and told the man to stop. He then stood in front of my car in a fashion that wouldn't allow me to move my car. I told him to move again, becoming more upset and scared. I then hung up and called the police, reporting the man and his license plate. I called AAA later that night and reported the strange behavior and let them know how serious this was.
I was told I would receive a call within two business days to get more information and handle the employee. I never received a call and when I followed up with AAA I was told: "We realize it is the customer's choice not to renew their membership." The customer service representative I initially spoke that night with appeared to be sympathetic and responsive, but I never received an apology or follow-up. This kind of situation is very scary for a female and I am deeply disturbed that such a well-known company does not care about employees who intimidate their customers.
Reviewed March 29, 2012
The car broke down 2 miles from my house. I had the Jeep towed to a local auto shop. The guys wouldn't give me a ride home because it was out of the way! 2 miles! Little did they know I had a $50 bill in my pocket that I planned on tipping with, but I guess they were not interested. Come on, AAA—get your priorities in order. I walked home.
Reviewed March 19, 2012
I made my annual membership renewal (prepaid) in early January and it was accepted as a payment and cleared my bank in January 2012. At the time, (from memory) I sent a payment in amount that resulted in a shortage of $8 from the annual membership of $48.00. However, it was accepted and I did not receive any formal notice from AAA stating that I had a remaining balance due on my annual membership. On February 18th, I placed a service call to have my auto battery recharged using AAA's roadside service. The service call occurred, but the battery was not charged although the mechanic was able to start the vehicle. I was notified by the dispatch attendant that my account was deficient by $8.00 and I would receive a letter in the mail as a statement to pay the remaining balance due.
At that time, the dispatch attendant also confirmed that this was only my second call in the past 13 months and that no additional charges would occur. I expect to receive a transcript of that recorded conversation from AAA. This is the principal reason for my complaint. I was informed on February 18th that the service call was within the normal allotment of calls resulting from my membership. I would have not accepted the service call if AAA had stated that I would otherwise be billed for a roadside service call. Absolutely no mention of cancellation was brought up at that time by the dispatch attendant and therefore the service call went on as scheduled. I could also have taken care of the $8.00 deficiency over the phone on the same day if offered that opportunity by AAA. Instead, AAA chose to honor the longstanding membership agreement (probably due to the fact that nearly all of my membership had been paid early) and dispatched the roadside service vehicle. I have subsequently paid the $8.00 balance due amount, but only recently.
Here is the evidence of unfair business practices conducted by AAA: On February 20th, (I have postmarked envelope to support this testimony) or two days after the service call, I received the first notice from AAA that I still owed them $8.00 to bring my account to current. However, it is spelled out at the top of the letter that it was the second renewal notice when in fact, it was the first. Even so, it was predated to indicate that the letter was written on February 14, 2012. However it was actually written later then received on 2/20/12 (two days after) the 2/18/12 service call. So essentially, there was no good faith effort on the part of AAA for me to bring my account to current at the time of the service call despite the letter with attached payment coupon in the statement mailed to me on February 20th, 2012.
Furthermore, I have received an invoice for this service call for the incomplete service from 2/18/12 and in direct conflict with AAA's confirmation I received that the call was one of my paid normal roadside service calls. I contacted AAA by phone and was astonished after a conversation with someone who refused to give a name or supervisory number and arrogantly stated that "AAA had no intention of resolving the error and eliminating the invoice or even taking responsibility for the inappropriate action". At this time, I would ask to have my AAA membership renewed in full (nearly all of which was prepaid well before the service call) and the subsequent invoice be eliminated, any adverse credit reporting occurrences be immediately reversed with a confirmation made to me in the form of a formal letter. Additionally and at very least, an apology be extended by the appropriate managerial level representative of AAA for the obvious burden of inconvenience and poor customer service that I have experienced.
Reviewed March 7, 2012
I called AAA to have a tow around 4 am and spoke with a roadside assistant for 22 minutes and I was told one would be dispatched within an hour. I was called by the original driver and told he would not take me out of the borough so I call back AAA. When I did, they dispatched a truck from LI. When the driver was about 20 minutes away, AAA told him to return home.
The same driver (that had originally been dispatched from LI) came back at 8:15 or so in the morning and told me AAA roadside called off my tow when I repeatedly called in distress. I was completely broken in a bad part of Brooklyn all night, mostly on the left hand side of the road, 5 or 10 feet from a fire hydrant and in front of a commercial loading zone, all which was explained to roadside as I made panicked call after panicked call. I did not arrive at the garage where i was supposed to be towed until 10:30 or 11 am and was up all night in my freezing car, waiting for a tow. I threw up from the stress and adrenaline and caused me severe distress after breaking down in the worst spot (I have pictures). I repeatedly told AAA I was in a very bad spot and I needed emergency roadside service.
When I tried to complain, they redirected me around so much I am afraid my voice will not be heard. I had to get a car for my girl to get back to her apartment. She was okay, I am currently not. Why, I ask, would I call off a tow after frantically calling in distress? They even ask if I'm in a safe location and I say I am not, I am in the worst spot possible. Around 7 and 8 in the morning, the local businesses started opening and I had to explain why I was parked in front of their loading dock doors and in front of a curb with yellow paint. So my choice was to sit there and take it or have my car ticketed and impounded due to the call off. Another agent told me a tow would be there in 20 minutes after I complained again and it took them almost an hour.
I would like to speak so anyone who can tell me if what they have done is legal. I felt exposed and vulnerable and do not trust AAA to handle my roadside needs anymore. This is and was one of the worst experiences I've had with any roadside assistance.
Reviewed March 7, 2012
I recently renewed my membership in AAA for one year. Soon after renewal, AAA closed my local office in Norcross, GA. This was a deal-breaker because I visit this office many times during the year. When I asked them to cancel my membership and refund the pro-rated amount of my dues, they refused. They consider the money theirs and will not cancel my membership or refund my membership dues. Like most insurance companies, AAA lacks good customer assistance and their policies are hostile toward its members.
Reviewed Feb. 29, 2012
I called AAA Roadside Service for providing a jump to my battery. This battery was not a year old. I purchased this particular battery after getting my car (1999, 500SL) jumped by AAA several times even though the battery was not three years old. However, it was completely dead. I told the driver of the AAA Roadside Service that the car had not been driven for approximately 2 to 3 days. However, the driver put on the paper that the car had been sitting for approximately 2 to 3 weeks; therefore, the warranty is null and void. I have two other Mercedes Benzes (2000 and 2004) and neither have had any problems with their batteries. I believe AAA is short changing customers and taking advantage of them. Yes, I am going to court if I must file myself.
Reviewed Feb. 19, 2012
I just moved to Virginia Beach, and need to find place to bring my Saab for maintenance, for an oil change. My car is in mint condition, and has low mileage. I tried to explain that if I keep up on preventive maintenance, as I always have, I won't need any major repairs. The guy was unfriendly, and when I asked if they worked on Saabs, he said they do, but would rather not! I'm new to the area, and AAA people are jerks. I've had AAA for a long time, and this was awful. Sorry I have a Saab, but it's well cared for, and I need someone to continue the preventive side, so I won't need repairs.
Reviewed Feb. 17, 2012
I seek if AAA might waive a charge on my part. I explained it to an AAA rep in exchange of an "I don't want to be bothered" type of behavior. Non-the-less, my overall experience with AAA had been great though. Unfortunately, I am considering another roadside service before my next AAA card expires.
Reviewed Feb. 17, 2012
I called AAA and was on hold for 15 minutes. Then I was told it would take two hours for someone to help change a tire. My spare was flat and was unable to change it myself. I have been a AAA member for 19 years. It is ridiculous and unsafe when a woman needs roadside assistance and has to wait for more than 30 minutes. I am definitely shopping for another roadside assistance program that will respond in a timely, safe manner.
Reviewed Feb. 11, 2012
AAA cancelled my policy on 01/03/12. They have told me they could not put the money back on my debit, so they would send me my refund! I have not seen my refund. They put the membership fees back on my debit, which they said they would not and could not do. This put me under in financing, it was 57 dollars short of what I paid. It's 02/12/12, were is my money? I paid all at once, so why can't I get paid all at once? Times are hard but this is business, it should be a nice and pleasant experience dealing with your company both ways, in and out! Help!
Reviewed Feb. 10, 2012
I received a bill saying that my daughter had used too many service calls or had received more than one premier tow or had used an invalid card and I owed $200. Nothing else--no specifics. However, my daughter has not had a car since 8/2011, and after that date I called AAA because my husband's car broke down and was assured that the 200-mile tow was still available (our daughter was in college and I wanted to check) and that my daughter had used the service a total of 2 times that year. I've sent them a letter (they told me to call my "local" office--tried, didn't work). In 20 plus years as an attorney, I have never seen a bigger scam. What am I being billed for and where did they get the $200?
Reviewed Feb. 10, 2012
On March 21, 2011, my SUV wouldn't start so I contacted AAA to come help me. The driver immediately told me that I needed a new battery and that he could replace it right there on the spot for $125.75, which included a 3-year warranty. On Feb. 2, 2012, my SUV would not start so I called AAA to inform them that my battery was dead. I was told if I had AAA come out, I would have to pay certain fees because my membership was expired, not in effect due to the fact that the recession/bad economy had given me no choice but not to reinstate my membership at the time of the renewal. Although my battery still was well within the 3-year warranty that I was told and I paid for when I purchased their (AAA) battery.
I called back and spoke with Tanya to reinstate my membership in hopes to eliminate the additional fees that I would've had to pay if I was not current on my membership before. So I got this issue out of the way. Now an AAA technician was dispatched to assist me at my home, ref. truck #** with no technician's name was given at my request. The technician arrived, asked me what was wrong. I told him I had taken the battery out because on my initial call to AAA, I was told that they were going to charge me extra to have a technician remove it. As soon as he heard this, he immediately retrieved back to his truck and told me that my battery's 3-year warranty was now voided due to the fact that I had removed it from my own SUV. The technician refused to help me at all. He called dispatch and dispatch informed me that the driver/technician would not be getting out of his truck to assist me. The driver left right away.
I made several attempts to speak to an AAA representative regarding my dilemma. The person I spoke with (Tyesha, the lead person) told me that she would not direct me to anyone because she was the point of escalation and no one else could do anything for me. She went as far as saying that no matter what I said, they were not going to replace it regardless of what your (my) previous conversation was earlier when I called to reinstate my membership. I paid for a service and I didn't even get that. I am aware of the many complaints against AAA's substandard products (in this case, my battery). I would like my money back, a full refund so I can purchase a quality product from an automotive parts store that honors their warranties immediately.
Reviewed Feb. 4, 2012
If this battery fails before the next 3 years is up, I'm going to hire an attorney and get to the bottom of these poor batteries. I'm about ready to dump AAA and get a real service company!
Reviewed Jan. 31, 2012
In regards to a phone call to AAA, about whether I could get any special discount, because of the incentive to new customers. I was given information, actually accused, of having a daughter on my plan that shouldn't be there (diverting attention to what I really called about). I was told that she was over the age requirement of 25, and if she calls in for a service, that the service would be provided, but I would be informed in writing that she is too old, and then told, her membership was cancelled when the new year came around. I emailed AAA, and asked for them to provide documentation where this rule exists, as it is not in my information, or in the website.
The response they gave was, "you are correct, in that the membership handbook does not spell out the rules of eligibility, where the age of associate members is concerned. This is, however, a rule that must be enforced, and I apologize if you were not aware of it. I will quote the rule to you, as it appears in our training manuals and job aids; unmarried dependents must be under the age of 25, and over the age 17, and reside in the same household as the primary member, or are full time students. Again, I apologize for our failure to provide this information in our handbook.
As the agent you spoke with stated, by your 26 year old daughter being carried as an associate, you are taking advantage of a discount that you are not eligible for. Therefore, the membership for Betty will be cancelled at renewal on 3/15/2012, making the new amount due for the remaining members of the household $127.00. Should she wish to continue membership, she has the option of purchasing her own separate primary membership at that time".
I was accused of taking advantage of a rule I had no way of knowing about (again diverting attention to the reason I emailed). My response was, "how am I taking advantage of a rule I am not aware of? That's a pretty bold accusation. Also, my daughter Betty, who is 26, is a full time graduate student, so she should be eligible to be on my plan, per the rules you state to me. I can easily send you proof she is a full time student. I'm not sure how it saves me, a member of 10 years, money on my membership, when someone gets in cheaper than me.
Oh, I understand how it spreads out the cost, but you also gain new members that spend more money with you as well. I bet my membership goes up in price next year, despite this incentive to new members. Oh yes, but not as much as it would have, if they didn't have the new members. I get it. My daughter Mary also will be going back to school to get her Masters degree this fall. I can also provide documentation of proof to that as well".
In short, it all started with AAA giving my daughter a bad company to deal with, when her keys were locked in. The guy took over 3 hours to get there, as they waited in the rain for him, then charged me $946 to make a key. I was not happy about the business they gave my daughter to work with, and then have the nerve to tell me I could apply to get $50 back, because my membership allows that.
They didn't even get it. $50? How about you giving us such an unscrupulous person to work with at 1 AM? I am now working with a guy that can email me his response, but if I have further things to discuss, to call him! I bet he answers the phone! This is a typical big business that cares little about the customers, only about the bottom line. Up to last summer, I had no complaint about my service, because it fell within their guidelines spelled out for a customer to see. How am I supposed to follow rules, I know nothing about?
Reviewed Jan. 30, 2012
I will never buy an AAA battery again and will be canceling membership. I was told my Honda battery needed replacement. The towing company used by AAA also lied. First, the service guy told me they don't get commission from selling the batteries. So I accepted the AAA battery with 3-year warranty. It does not hold a charge. If I don't drive my car for 4 days, it goes dead. So I called AAA up. The next guy tries to sell me another battery and I say I have one of theirs. He also said they do get commission for selling the battery.
Regardless, I wouldn't have minded if the battery held its charge. The original Honda battery could go two months without being driven. I am disgusted with AAA. They have become obsessed with getting people to purchase their products and services, and what makes it worse is the substandard product they are selling. Do not buy their batteries or believe the towing company they use.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2012
I called AAA for my 2005 Chvrolet Corvette. Accurate Towing was sent, and the driver hooked it to the wrong part of the undercarriage, damaging the front end of the car. I immediately called AAA from the parking lot and reported the incident. I was told to contact the tow company, and they gave me a phone number. After finally making contact with the owner of the tow company, he wanted to look at the car.
Four days later, when he showed up, he stated that he wanted to avoid his deductible, and have a guy he knew fix it. He said that he would have an AAA adjuster come out and determine the damage. After two more days of waiting, I called my insurance company which has now lead to out-of-pocket expenses. I have a rental car and a deductible which AAA refuses to reimburse saying that since I used my insurance, they no longer have control of the situation.
They backed out of having control when they pushed me off to the tow company, and never offered any assistance. I intend to take them to small claims court to collect this--the fact that their contractor is poor in how he handles complaints should not cost me money. Their denial of responsibility is unacceptable.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2012
I have been an AAA member for almost 15 years. I began my policy in the state of California. In May 2011 I moved to Washington State. My insurance was paid up to November of 2011. In November I went to the West Seattle Branch to renew my policy. At that time I was renting a room. My representative was Debe B. During our initial visit, I could tell that she was a little agitated and was not as friendly; but being new to the state I figured it was nothing. She acted like she did not know the computer system very well and I didn't pay much attention to it. Her dog kept jumping up and down and finally she had to hold him in her lap and it seemed to be quite a distraction for her, and causing my allergies to flare. Regardless, my policy became effective 11/6/11.
In January of 2012 I moved to an apartment complex in the same city so I emailed Ms. B. to let her know that I needed to make an address change and add renter’s insurance since that was the policy for the apartment complex. I emailed her on January 2nd; she contacted me the next day requesting information which I responded that same day. I did not hear back from her. On the 4th I emailed her again and she told me she was having "technical difficulties" and needed more time. I told her that Kemper (the company I use through AAA) will deduct for the current policy on the 6th; therefore, it was a time sensitive issue. She advised me the only way to prevent them from taking money from my account was to come in and sign a new policy including renter’s insurance.
I went in at 4:30 pm and waited a bit. When I sat down with Ms. B., she was extremely rude and agitated with me. She told me that had I initially added the renter’s insurance, she would not have had to write a new policy. I explained to her that when the initial policy was written I was renting a room. Now I live in an apartment complex where having renter’s insurance is mandatory. She was very upset and started to type extremely hard, making it clear that she was frustrated. She then said in a very rude manner "I need a voided check," in which case I pointed out to her that the check was right in front of her. After the very unpleasant visit, the conversation ended with a clear understanding that my old policy would be cancelled that day (the 4th) and the new policy would be effective that day as well; and, therefore, the amount of $156 was supposed to be taken by the end of the business day on the 4th and the old policy cancelled.
I noticed on the 5th the $156 was not taken out my account. On the 6th I noticed that $142 was taken out from my account which was for the old policy. I emailed Ms. B. right away and this is what she emailed me the same day:
"Kay, After further discussion with Kemper over your account draft today of $142, we have been informed they are sending out refund of $149.49 on Jan. 12th, at the latest; they must wait 3 days for the draft from today to clear. I apologize. There is nothing further we can do about that draft. We attempted to have this not occur, and it was too late for the electronic to be stopped."
I told her I no longer wanted her to touch my policy as I was going to call corporate to have them figure this out because I now had no insurance and she never even mentioned my new policy being effective, which at this point, I later found out was not in effect. And this was the disturbing response I got from Ms. B., leading me to believe that she intentionally messed up my insurance based on racial and religion discrimination:
"Kay, To reiterate on the cancellation, we did request the cancellation on the 4th. It was processed on the 4th and requested stop pay on the 4th when you came in. Originally I was informed by our CSU that Kemper was only going to refund you $6.66 until I advised according to you that they drafted another $142 today. The CSU (AAAs corporate customer service) contacted Kemper again to verify this and asked why the draft occurred when the request to cancel was made 2 days ago. They indicated they needed more time to cancel today’s draft and cancelling it would not have made that occur. Kemper is the company that did the draft and did not cancel the draft on the 4th. It is not in my ability to access their database accounting department to complete this."
Again, no reference to my new policy ever taking effect. I am of Fijian decent. Ms. B. is blonde hair, blue eyed, and the number 666 to me is very disturbing, especially since I wear a chain with a cross on it, signifying I am a Christian. Not only do the numbers not add up to $142, but why 666? And in return offer me $149.49 which is not even the amount I use to pay which was $142. It was not until January 9th at 5 pm PST that I noticed the amount for my new policy was taken out of my account which brought my account to a negative balance plus $70 of overdraft fees. I received a check from Kemper for $149 when I was out of town. When I returned to the States from Canada, I went to Bank of America explained the situation and they were kind enough to remove the overdraft fees.
I am mortified and beyond anger! If my policy is even in effect, it means that I went 5 days without insurance and I have never gone a day without insurance in my life. I emailed my landlord on the 4th with the new policy only to find out that it didn't go through. I have all correspondence between her and me and I would very much like to be contacted by an attorney.
Thank you.
Reviewed Jan. 20, 2012
On Jan.17,2012, my son was in a car accident. The next day, I called to find out how much it will cost to take the car out. I talked to a man, didn't get his name. He told my that if the car starts, it will be $130.00, if not, it will cost $170.00. So I went. I paid the $170.00 and waited for the car. I told the AAA let me see if the car starts and it did. I walked to the door and told the lady the car started. She said they don't want to take the change to burn the motor and closed the intercom. Was very nasty talked to me. Now, when I got the car home, the AAA drove the car up the drive way and backed it up. The car was fine. I want the $40.00 I had to move when the car can be driven. Nothing is touching the wheels just the top of the hood is smashed and the windshield is cracked on the driver side. The car can be driven.
Reviewed Jan. 16, 2012
On 1-5-12, I called AAA for a tow. The tow truck driver arrived almost two hours later. The tow truck drove around the corner and circled back. I jumped out to flag down the tow truck driver. My husband and son stayed in the car with the hazard lights flashing and the car parked. The tow truck driver cut the corner short and ran into the back of my car. I called my insurance company (GEICO) immediately. It was at 8:18 PM. The next phone call was to AAA. AAA gave me West Side Tow's phone number to get their insurance information from them.
I called West Side Tow, and Amir answered the phone. Amir told me that "MJ is the manager and that he has the insurance, but that MJ is sleeping and that I would have to call him in the morning. I took pictures of the tow truck driver. The driver allowed me to take a picture of his driver's license, and I wrote a note on the receipt, noting that it was the tow truck driver who damaged my car during pick-up of the vehicle. Since I was given a carbon copy of the receipt, I took a picture of the original.
On 1-6-12, my husband called West Side Tow, and Joe answered the phone. Joe stated that MJ the manager was on vacation and would be on vacation for at least two days. Joe identified that Mark was the owner of the towing company. Joe said to call Mark back in one hour. Joe told my husband that he was just helping. One hour later, I called West Side Tow, and my call was forwarded to a voice mail box.
My next call was to GEICO. I spoke to Charles about what I should do next. We 3-way called West Side Tow. Mark answered and told GEICO that MJ, the manager, is the only one with the insurance information. I had told Charles about calling the tow company back to talk to Mark, only to find that Mark answered the phone and forwarded me to a voice mail. I called AAA next, and James gave me a "case number" which turned out to be merely a complaint number.
On 1-15-12, I called GEICO, because at this point AAA and West Side Tow has given me a runaround. Andrea called AAA and apologized that the call was taking some time. I wanted to stay on hold. She also said that they were not being too helpful; she was talking to Linda at AAA. Andrea told me that according to AAA, the owner of West Side Tow is Ali **. Andrea called West Side Tow and was told that Ali ** is out of the country and that the only person that has the insurance information was MJ, the manager.
Andrea spoke to Joe. She asked when she could contact MJ, because they have been told several times to call tomorrow and that MJ is never there. He assured Andrea that MJ would be there. Andrea will call me tomorrow morning, and we will 3-way call MJ at West Side Tow.
I called AAA, because they are a reputable company. AAA has stated that the tow truck company is liable. I regret calling AAA, and I think that they should be responsible for the people they contract out to.
Reviewed Jan. 13, 2012
My name and license number was involved in the accident falsely. I was shopping for auto insurance and I came to know that AAA involved me in some false violation. I have police report to prove and have faxed to processing department through AAA agency in Madison Heights, MI about 4 weeks ago but did not hear back. My auto insurance rate went high even though I had nothing to do with that violation. Will AAA compensate me with all the consequences I am suffering with?
Reviewed Jan. 11, 2012
It was awful! I called because I needed roadside assistance. I was told that my services had expired. This was after I was told that I had unlimited except for towing which is 100 miles each time. I asked to speak with a manager. Tiffany, who has always been rude to deal with, said if I wanted to cancel, I could, but that I do not have any service left until April. I never said I wanted to cancel. I called and spoke with Amy who is Tiffany's boss. She too said that she was sorry that I had been misled, but there was nothing she could do.
There were rules she needed to abide by. I asked to speak with Mark. She said no, he makes his decisions, and he is the president. I said "So, he could bend the rules one time." She said he could, but they would not on this. She had an attitude and I told her I would not join again. Why is it that those in power are so rude? She informed me that she has been with the company for 13 years, and they never had unlimited services. I rate this as low as you go!
Reviewed Dec. 31, 2011
My car stopped running and would not restart. I called AAA and requested a tow. I waited 55 minutes; finally, the truck arrived. It was old and unrepairable. The driver neglected to take the car out of gear, until it was made clear that something was wrong. The tow truck lurched and bumped violently; when I asked the driver about it, he said that somebody had hit the left front wheel. It was striking the inside of the bumper. At the garage, I noticed that the front tires were bald--this was clearly a vehicle that should not have been on the road in the first place, and would have dismally failed a safety inspection. The company is T&A Towing out of Bridgeview, IL.
It is evident to me that AAA fails to screen its contractors, looking instead for the lowest bid. I am paying over $50 yearly, and I can count on one hand the number of times I have used your services. I will not renew again. It would be cheaper to take my chances, and I would be able to select a reputable company when and if service is needed.
Reviewed Dec. 29, 2011
After 18 years, they ** me. One claim and they cancel you. I was without insurance for two months after they cashed my check for homeowners insurance. Agent did not call or help at all. Stay away. I switched AARP policies with better coverage and saved $500-plus.
Reviewed Dec. 19, 2011
My initial call to AAA was around 1:30 am in regards to my truck not starting. At around 4:00 am, a battery truck made it to me and determined that it was most likely the alternator and needed to be towed back to Weymouth. He called me a tow and I was quoted from that point that it should be within the hour for the tow. The tow didn't show up until 5 hours later at approximately 9:00 am.
I missed a day's pay and had to pay 70 dollars for a tow. While I don't feel anyone is liable for my day's pay, I would greatly appreciate at the very least the tow being reimbursed based on the considerable amount of time it took for a tow truck to arrive. I hope to hear from someone shortly on this matter. Thanks.
Reviewed Dec. 16, 2011
My battery that I bought from AAA Automobile Club Southern California went bad. The battery was less than 3 years old and should have been covered under the promised warranty. AAA delivered a battery and charged me $94.84 for the battery. The AAA driver was not familiar with warranty procedures. The dispatcher promised to get back. He never did. Nothing happened. I called AAA Automobile Club Southern California 2 weeks later and they referred me back to the towing company. At further calling I found out that if you do not have the original receipt, the warranty is void even if they have your purchase on record and you have the date and time.
Reviewed Dec. 15, 2011
On December 14, 2011, I became stuck in a lawn. I grabbed my AAA card and called for assistance. I have been a member since 2009. To begin with, they could not "locate" my membership and began transferring me to several other people. I realized that my membership had been cancelled on November 11, 2011. I had been ill and in the hospital since October--and was having surgery on November 4. I explained that my subscription had expired and promised to renew the following day upon getting paid (direct deposit).
One young man stated that his supervisor could approve a "complimentary call" or a "courtesy call" and the supervisor did. After transferring me to "my club," a rude woman retrieved my call. I explained my circumstances--that I was 245 miles away from home, and because I was just returning to work, I had no money but I had been a member since 2009.
I was getting paid the next day and could renew. Then, a supervisor had approved a courtesy call. The woman said, "We don't do that so I guess you're out of luck." I was out of town with no money and had been a member for three years! I will not be renewing my membership. There was a 14 day lapse. If this is how they treat loyal customers, they don't need my loyalty. A tow service in Niagara was nice enough to come pull me out that night and charge me half the tow the following day and another half in two weeks when I get paid again.
Reviewed Dec. 15, 2011
I was involved in a car accident and called AAA for a tow, as the other person involved and I exchanged information and were ready to be on our way. When I called them, I was informed I would have to pay for a tow because I had already "used all of my service calls." When in reality I had only used 1 in the entire year and the other 4 were used by a previous room mate. All the room mate needed to use my service calls, was my name and address. No ID was ever verified. I only know it was a previous room mate because of the make and model of the car placed during the service calls. I explained to them I didn't have money for a tow at that time and that the service calls had been placed without my knowledge, consent, and in they're employees negligence to verify any form of ID. I was basically told tough luck and I had to figure something else out.
Reviewed Dec. 7, 2011
On November 25, 2011, my car over heated on my way home to Brooklyn, NY. My car was towed, to the above station. I by accident did not leave my car keys with the station attendant, to tell me what was wrong with my car. On November 29, 2011, went back to Lake Service Station, with car keys and paid the $180.00 storage fee, no problem. Service attendant stated the problem with my car was a head gasket problem, not worth fixing. I agreed along with brother that the car should be junked. The station attendant indicated he need the title to the car before he can junk it. I said I would mail it to him, but after thinking about the situation, I felt I wanted my mechanic in Brooklyn, to look at it and let me know if it was worth fixing and how expensive it would be.
Called on December 4, 2011, spoke to someone at the station. I informed him that my name is Shirley **, owner of the Blue Dodge Intrepid, and I wanted to come get it. He told me that they don't release cars on Sunday, and the person I originally dealt with is not there. On December 6, 2011, he, a friend drove me to the Lake Service Station, to pay the storage fee and get AAA to take my car back to Brooklyn. The station attendant I originally dealt with was there. Informed him I'm here to get my car, he told me about the storage fee, and so forth. Then he informed me after looking on the computer and calling a employee of his that my car was junked.
I asked him how could that be, because he does not have the title to the car. He and I then went over the entire situation, that lead up to my car ending up there in the first place. But I asked him how can you junk someones car without the title. As I understand, I assume this was illegal to do. My friend, who drove me 80 miles, to get to this place, when did he junk it, he said last week, so that means anytime after November 29th, the day I came to pay the $180 storage fee. The means to me, he did not waste anytime getting rid of my vehicle. Also, this gentlemen had my name and telephone on paper work that I filled out on November 25th, he could given me a curiosity call and ask me what I wanted to do with my car. This man never call me, he took it upon himself to junk my car if that is what he did with it.
My car was in good condition inside and out. I also had a lot of work done on this car and I had new headlights installed this past summer. I greatly feel this person did an unjustifiable to me and I want to pursue this matter. Please contact me, by then I will have the name of the gentlemen I dealt with regarding this awful situation. I know this is a long letter, but I needed to give you all the details. Thanking you in advance.
Reviewed Dec. 5, 2011
I called to find out if I had free towing left on my AAA while I was stranded. I did have towing on my Farmers and on my rental car contract. But AAA assured me that yes, I had 200 miles left and that would be the last service call I had left that was free. So, I used them as I had before. Then two months later, they sent me a bill for $345.59 saying that they had incorrectly told me I was covered. But due to a computer problem they have, they incorrectly advised me the service was free.
The letter from them (Myisha) states that sometimes this happens, but they still expect me to pay them. It was an error on their part that they told me I had one tow left when I asked them if I had any left. But they state that I should have known I didn't have any left regardless of them telling me I did and therefore I need to pay them. Keep in mind, had they advised me I didn't have any left on my AAA, I would have used my other coverages for free. And the AAA tow driver forgot to lock down the car on the flatbed and it rolled off, on the highway, as we were driving down the road. They have horrific service. That's bad faith and just plain wrong.
Reviewed Dec. 5, 2011
The right front suspension broke on my 1999 Chevy Astro van, on or about 12-05-2011. I called AAA for a tow. The first tow truck, not a AAA tow truck, arrived within two hours. The polite man advised me, his truck was not equipped to safely tow my vehicle. Some hours later, an AAA tow truck arrived, with the proper equipment. However, the driver refused to use the (dollies) and wanted to drag my vehicle onto the tow truck. This would have caused more damage. He said that I must sign a damage waver. I refused. He got into his truck and left.
I called AAA and was told, "We cannot tow your vehicle without a damage waiver." I tried to explain to the dispatcher, my dilemma. She said, "AAA requires a damage waiver to tow any vehicle." It's something the first driver did not require. So, to have AAA tow a vehicle, one must allow them (AAA) to do any damage they may, and sign a waiver saying they (AAA) were/are not liable for it. What?
Reviewed Dec. 4, 2011
My car broke down. I was with my husband, it was like 5:00 am. I had two kids in the car with me so I had someone pick me up to get the kids in the house and then was going to come back to the car with my husband. The tow truck got there before I returned. When truck came per my husband's instruction, he open his door looked at the car and said that if he lifted that car, he would ** my car up. My husband said, "Oh no, you will not ** my car up. Use logs to put the car on the flat bed." That didn't happen. They exchanged words. The guy ended up not towing the car.
When I came back and called AAA, they said the guy had called and said my husband was the rude one. They tell me it was okay for them to be rude to my husband, he's not a member. I ask them what type of customer service is that. They were not very friendly. They then tell me another truck will come out and be there at 6:11a.m. So we wait and nothing comes. I call back, they tell me a truck is not coming and that I would have add my husband on in order for them to come back out to tow my car. Even though I'm a member and was stuck at my car, they were not coming back in unless I was going to pay regular price for a tow truck.
I canceled my policy right there. All they said was, "I hope you have a better day."
Reviewed Dec. 2, 2011
This is more of an issue that has been happening since 11/2010. Though my rep has always been polite, she has always seemed to have issues with my address. Previously, when we started my plan, she kept sending it to the wrong address. I guess she misheard me over the phone, either way, we finally got it settled and I had everything set up. In February, I moved out of my apartment and into my current address **. I called Mary in February informing her of my address change. She updated it and I received my new policy information in October at the correct address.
I knew my membership for AAA would be coming in November but I never heard anything. I thought this was odd since I knew it was expiring but I waited for it in the mail. Then the person who moved in to the apartment after me called in annoyed, informing me that she had been receiving my mail. But since I had told her my address had been updated, she figured it was a mistake and sent it back as return to sender, who no longer lives here. I called Mary the next day, left a message explaining my mail was somehow still going to my old apartment address and my new permanent address, so to please update and forward it to me since I wasn't getting anything related to AAA membership. She called me back apologizing, said she would update it and forward the mail correctly. This was two weeks ago.
I've since waited again for membership to come in the mail so I could renew and it's never come. I called AAA today to the membership department, explained the situation and they said they would reissue but since I had failed to mail in a timely manner, my coverage would be lapsed and I would not have coverage until I made payment, and if I didn't make payment by January 1, it would be termed. Now what's unfair about this situation is that I updated my address as I was supposed to back in March. Yet your company made the mistake of updating it incorrectly and I don't have coverage. I will be more than happy to pay for the membership and mail it back the day it comes in but I feel that it is very unfair that I am penalized for your reps mistake.
If I am in an accident, I now have to pay for the tow and that's not fair because she made a mistake, I did my job. I explained all this to the rep that I spoke to today, she did not seem to care. It was not her problem, my coverage would still be lapsed. I understand mistakes happen, but I should not be at fault for this.
Reviewed Nov. 27, 2011
My battery died after 14 months of service. They came out said my car was OK but would not replace the battery saying I needed to get it charged. I got it charged and after 24 hours it was dead again. They still won’t replace it. I had to buy a battery from another shop for $129.00.
Reviewed Nov. 21, 2011
My son had a flat tire, and his friend used my car to go to work, and he got a flat tire, and were unable to change it. They called AAA, and they told me if I wasn't present with the card, they cant help him. My son and his friend sat on the side of the road in Wellesley for 3 hours, until a police officer came and called their tow truck company. My son and his friend, got home at 1:30AM on a school night. They waited for 3 hours, and they had to pay $95 for the other man, to change the tire for them. I don't know why I pay for AAA, if they are of no help at all. What if the officer didn't show up? Anything could have happened to these boys.
Reviewed Nov. 17, 2011
I went in to get a quote for car insurance in the Upland, CA office. Daniel, the agent was having problems with the computer and told me that he would stop by my house that evening and give me my final quote and take pictures of my house and have me sign the paperwork. He never made it to my house and didn't call but he did charge my credit card anyway without any authorization or signature from me.
Reviewed Nov. 17, 2011
I call AAA to first change my tire. The technician didn't fix the screw very well and I lost it while I was driving. My car got stock and they didn't send the right truck. I had to wait for one hour before getting service. Now, I have to wait another hour before to get the right truck. I went to drop my daughter home as she just came out from school. Couldn't find a cab to get back to my car. They called me to say that the truck was there and he couldn't wait for me after 15 min. I had waited two hours! I was under the rain trying to come as soon as I could. No cab, no taxi. I had to go back home and leave my car there ! AAA doesn't serve nothing. Better to pay a $75 fee with a company that will send you the right truck when you need it without waiting for two hours before somebody gets available!
Reviewed Nov. 16, 2011
My debit card was charged twice for my membership and they would not refund me my money! I've called several times and they said that they will give me a refund but it has been 9 days without anything.
My husband is on his Army duty for 2 weeks in California and I told AAA that he needs the money for gas and food. My checks are going to bounce if I don't get my refund and they keep telling me that they will refund me but until now I haven't seen a single cent put back into my bank account.
Reviewed Nov. 15, 2011
I went to AAA in Lakeland, Fl to get tickets to animal kingdom, magic kingdom and universal studios for my family. I was referred to speak with Cathy. I told her, I was in need of 3 child tickets all under 9 yrs of age to animal kingdom and magic kingdom over 2 days. I needed 2 adult tickets for the same as well as one day in universal. This was stated 3 times total while Cathy was putting the info into her computer. Cathy said yes, ok. She then said it would be cheaper to do a 3 day pass for the adults. I asked her if it would be the same price at the gates as it would be here at AAA, she replied yes. We can take the tickets to the gates with animal and magic kingdom but universal we would have to have them exchange them for a paper one due to they have a different scanning process.
The tickets were paid for as well as two other adults that were with us who received the same tickets. We all spent our first two days at animal and magic kingdom. The lady at magic kingdom told me I should have bought the tickets from her. It would have been $9.00 cheaper for the kids under 9 yrs old due to AAA sold me all individual passes. The 3rd day, we went to universal and were denied entry due to the card was not right. I told them Cathy from AAA said they would exchange them for a paper card. She sent me to guest services, they told me they are not part of Disney and I need to take that up with AAA.. We had to buy more tickets. The next day (Monday), I went back to AAA, talked to Cathy.
She said she does not remember me saying the 3 different parks and cannot give a refund due to I already used the other 2 park days. I educated her on the order that the park passes were put in and that I repeated the parks 3 times to her with witnesses there to confirm and the universal brochure right in front of her. She then went to her manager Peggy **, who told me AAA does not give refunds on already activated passes. I explained the problem again and she said Cathy has been there a long time and she would not make a mistake. I told her we were leaving at 2:30 to go back to Maine today and something needs to be done. She said, I could still use the pass today. Really? We fly out in 4 hours. How is that going to work? I asked her what she is willing to do. She replied there's nothing she can do. AAA does not refund money on tickets.
Reviewed Nov. 12, 2011
AAA customers, as well as AAA staff, are not being made aware of policy changes such as the one that applies to replacing AAA auto batteries. Apparently, now AAA is insisting that prior to them replacing a AAA battery that is under warranty, the consumer must go out and pay a fee to gain a report to prove the battery is dead even though their own technicians can determine that information with their equipment. Additionally, the consumer is told there are authorized AAA repair shops that do NOT charge a fee for this report, yet when you call AAA and request the list and actually contact their approved mechanics, not one of them will perform this service for free. Do you think this is right? I rate this experience F for failure.
Reviewed Nov. 11, 2011
I work at The Quarry, in Minneapolis. I got off work early 9:30 PM . I tried to drive away in my truck, but felt something wrong with my tire on the right rear. It was flat, so I called AAA. I got through to a rep. She took all of my information. She said that there would be someone there in a 50-minute time window.
I let my fellow workers go, because I thought I would be there only for, maybe an hour. Well, the dispatcher or supervisor rep of the Minneapolis branch cancelled my assistance call. So, an hour goes by, and the parking lot is empty, and I am alone. I am a 52-year old woman. Not a great area of town. I called back get put back in touch with Mellisa, she told me that I called the driver of the tow truck, and cancelled my roadside assistance . How would I have done that, if I had not known information on the tow truck.
Mellisa dropped the ball on this one. The tow truck driver showed up at 11:38pm. He goes, "pop your hood for a jump". I am sure that would be great but I only have a flat tire. Not only did she drop the ball, she also gave the wrong information to the driver. I have an hour drive home. It got fixed at around 12:05 AM, and I got home at 1:10 AM.
I am truly angry, and scared for anyone, who had to deal with the Minneapolis office. They hold no responsibility, or respect for any AAA consumer or customer.
Reviewed Oct. 27, 2011
When I first moved to Torrance, I had to get my own AAA membership off my mom's. AAA took a payment from me, then I guess they forgot to tell me I owed a previous payment. So they kept sending me my membership cards. But when I went in a few months later they said, "Oh, oops, you don't have a membership - you didn't pay the initial fee". Ok, fine...so I paid it and got it renewed.
After that, they kept messing up with my membership. But the more upsetting issue happened after I moved out of Torrance, and back in with my mom in LA.
I had to close my bank account (which was automatically deducting my monthly payments), and I drove right over to AAA and told them to change my bank info. I signed some papers and handed them a voided check. (I found out later they had no record of my visit that day except for the physical check I left for a payment. ) I started getting calls a month or so later saying my insurance was canceled. So I made a payment over the phone and the lady said that she'd deduct the monthly payments from that account.
Obviously not. They canceled me yet again. I walked into the branch and demanded to speak to the branch manager. This was last month, September. She straightened it all out as best as she could, she couldn't find any record of my initial visit except for the payment I left. I told her I wanted automatic deduction so I don't have to worry about this every month. We talked about my remaining balance and whatever amount I owed. She and I came up with 310.00 so I could lower my monthly payments. I agreed! I just got paid, so I was more than happy to give them whatever I could so I'd be insured. I made a check for that and gave her yet another voided check and signed the documents for the automatic deduction again.
On 10/25/2011, Bank Of America emailed me with a overdraft notice saying I was over drawn $452.05. I went to Bank Of America on the 26th during lunch (and after they cleared my savings to cover this over draft, which wasn't enough because as of right now 7:32AM 10/27 I am negative $13.00) and asked what happened. I know I had money! I found out that AAA withdrew $940.20! I got the print out of my statement and went to AAA again. I spoke with the branch manager and demanded an explanation. She called the finance team and I over heard her saying, "Oh, you guys caught that and sent a check to her for $333 today? " They had no explanation as to why they took all my money, but over 24 hrs after taking it, they "caught" it. My total to AAA is a little over 600.00, with 7 more payments left. So the total amount was bewildering to the branch manager and me. After some emails back and forth with the branch manager, they decided to deposit $850.20 into my account. According to the email from the branch manager, I should "cross my fingers" that I get the money on Friday.
My paycheck comes in tonight at midnight. I'm over drawn and I'm sure they're going to hold my money. I've had to hold off with other payments. I have no cash or savings anymore and I have to "cross my fingers" that I get the money from AAA that they stole from me with no explanation as to why. So they've messed up with my membership numerous times, they've caused me to drive without insurance because they couldn't keep their records straight, and now, they've robbed me blind! But hey, at least they finally got my correct bank account and I'm insured...right?
Reviewed Sept. 26, 2011
Horrible, deceitful and utterly dishonest service by the Notary Republic who would not notarize my official US Gov. Disabled Veterans papers, which I have had done here for several years. I have been an AAA member for over 35+ years and until this horrible person came to be involved, I had great service. She not only lied and refused to give her name (which I got from another person, otherwise I would not know), she refused her name, her Notary ID and commission which are required by law. I now have nothing good to say about this AAA office. To be lied to and discriminated as a 100% disabled veteran is terrible. She should be fired.
Reviewed Sept. 19, 2011
I like AAA. Every time I am stranded or need help, they are there. Sometimes, it might take a while, but there are others who need help also. Even in bad snow storms, they seem to do their best (awesome tow truck drivers). I've been a plus member for 5 years. Recently, I needed a tow due to a rusted fuel line. The tow truck driver maybe, accidentally, but just as well pushed the fork through my bumper and damaging my car. The bumper pushed things back. My car is now not drivable and nobody is taking responsibility. I have put in a claim with AAA. My husband called them back and said they talked to me and told me the claim was denied when I never talked to them. AAA owes me a rental car and repairs. My situation is not solved (to be continued) but right now, it's looking like they are screwing me over.
Reviewed Sept. 17, 2011
I renewed my Plus Membership online for March 31st 2012. I called AAA for service when my daughter was in an accident and I was told that I only had basic membership and would have to pay for anything over three miles.
I had to pay $36 for the tow truck driver to take my daughter's car home, which is fifteen miles.
Reviewed Sept. 9, 2011
I had my car repaired at AAA center in Durham, NC. After that repair, they suggested that my car brakes need replacement as it had worn out and it would cost me $350. Then, I decided to get my brake rotors and pads replaced and took it to the same AAA, who charged me $450. After a few days later, I moved from Durham to Towson, MD. I had to get my car inspected and registered in Maryland state. During inspection, they found out that the wrong rotors were installed and it was unsafe to drive the car.
Finally, I got it replaced at AAA Towson, who charged me an additional $500. They assured me that they had spoken with AAA Durham and the whole charge would be reimbursed. I contacted AAA Durham regarding this and after many days of argument, they finally decided to reimburse only $350 out of $500. It has been two weeks since they decided on reimbursing and I still have not received any check from them.
Reviewed Sept. 8, 2011
I had a terrible experience with AAA, and I want to cancel my membership! On 31 Aug 11, I was in a car accident and called AAA. After an extremely long wait on the phone, your representative answered and I, clearly traumatized, told her that I'd just been in an accident. The police were here, and I needed my car towed. She seemed confused, asked me if I was in NY. I stated that I was in VA and gave her the exact address. She put me on hold and then right back into the cue to wait for another representative! I was furious and upset.
Previously, I was disappointed that AAA was unable to provide a map of the county I live in. (This map is readily available on the web, but not in large format). So, no maps and no response to my towing response? I want my money back! And my rating is minus one star!
Reviewed Sept. 7, 2011
I joined AAA-Florida in August 2009. On 24 June 2011, I sent them an advance payment of $66.00 for my club renewal membership for the August 2011 - August 2012 membership year. On 9 August 2011, having looked at the AAA membership discounts for eye exams and eye-wear given at their participating partner, Sears, I decided to take advantage of the multiple vision discounts offered to AAA members.
After I had my eye exam, I proceeded to order my two pairs of reading glasses and frames and two pairs of distance glasses and frames. Then, I was told by the Sears vision representative that they don't honor more than one AAA vision discount and there would be no discount for the eye exams. Well, that was a surprise. I handed the vision representative the AAA website member vision discount information to show her the multiple discounts listed which said nothing like "only one discount applies." It just listed all of the discounts that a member would get for the exams, lens and frames. I was again informed that the only discount Sears could give me was $5.00 off for two pairs of glasses. In total, I would receive $10.00 off of my bill for all four sets of glasses and no discount for the eye exams. I needed the new script and glasses so I paid the bill.
I was truly disappointed and confused because the AAA website for member vision discounts didn't say anything about no multiple discounts. And so, on 14 August 2011, I sent an email to AAA for a clarification on their advertisement. Their response back to me was a little sketchy and they said that they would check into it. When they did get back to me, the information they tried to give me clearly did not pertain to me so I told them that they had the wrong vision patient information and to please get it corrected. That went by the wayside.
On 25 August 2011, angered over this advertising issue, I called AAA and cancelled my membership renewal which had gone into effect on 1 August 2011. I asked for an email confirmation of my cancellation and a refund of the membership dues I had just paid since I wouldn't be using AAA effective that date. I was told that although they would cancel my AAA membership on 25 August 2011, my membership would remain in effect until August 2012. Huh? I thought immediate cancellation meant right then and there.
Also, when I inquired about a refund of my newly-paid membership dues, I was told that refunds only apply to new members and it's only in the first 30 days. Huh? I was clearly within the 30 days of my renewal which started on 1 August 2011, so, what's that about? It says nothing about that on the AAA website in their refund policy. If someone calls or sends email to cancel their membership, would you not cancel it right away but instead keep it in effect for another year? None of that makes sense. This is a scam which is as bad as the advertisement of the vision discounts they have on their website and in their membership brochures. Someone from AAA was supposed to get back to me on the vision discounts and my membership refund, but obviously that has not occurred.
I have since joined another auto club since there are many but I still feel that I am entitled to my $66.00 membership dues back from AAA since I cancelled in the appropriate time frame and since I won't be using their services ever again..
Reviewed Sept. 7, 2011
On August 28, my car had been stuck in a puddle of water after the aftermath of hurricane Irene. After pushing the car out, I contacted AAA who then released Dom's towing to pick up my car. After having requested for the car to be taken to Sears, I was persuaded by the driver that it was being taken to The Garage which works in conjunction with the company.
The real problem was when the tow driver deemed my car's engine potentially ruined and the next day the mechanic said that the engine was completely hydrolocked and flooded. The solution was to get a new engine or a used engine for a couple thousand dollars.
After wanting to get a second opinion, I had my car taken to a friend's mechanic and within the day, the spark plugs where changed along with oil and transmission fluid, costing me $300.
It is a shame that a company would want to take advantage of a person in time of calamity.
Reviewed Sept. 2, 2011
I purchased AAA battery a little over a year ago. The serviceman told me that the battery had 36 months warranty, regardless if I remain AAA member or not during this period.
My car sat in the garage for about 3 weeks, and now, when I try to take it out, the battery is dead and the car would not start. I called AAA (888-912-6678) number for warranty service. They connected me to local AAA office in West Hills California. The lady refused to send a technician to provide warranty service until I agreed to pay for the serviceman to come to my place. I asked her why I would have to pay if the battery is under warranty. She told me the only way they would not charge me is if I become a AAA member.
I asked her if I had purchased battery from another company, would they send somebody for warranty service and not ask me to be their member. Why are you asking me either to pay for the warranty service or be an AAA member? Warranty on product has nothing to do with being a member. I did not call for AAA member benefit service. She would not buzz so I had to end the conversation and call the head office again. Then I was transferred to a guy who said the same thing.
I would never encourage anybody to buy battery from AAA. You will regret. They are selling refurbished battery at much higher price (because they know you are in the middle of the road and you would pay any amount to get out of that situation), and when you call for warranty service, they will do nothing for you.
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2011
I have been trying to file a complaint since two weeks ago. I called but no answers and when they do answer, they say they will call me back. I am still waiting for that call. So if you can please contact me ASAP because I have been waiting for a long time. If one is going to help me, then I would like to get my money back for the membership I paid for the whole year because until now, I haven't used it and the time I was going to use it, they didn't help me at all. So if you can please contact me, I will appreciate it.
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2011
I called to have my dying brother removed from my membership. He is in hospice and will never drive again. I've paid for a year of coverage for him, starting in June of this year. I was told that AAA does not refund, reimburse for the discontinuation of coverage despite the circumstances. I'm sure that is the "policy" but I challenge the legality of charging for a service that cannot be provided because the covered person is deceased. I simply wanted a rebate for nine-10 months of "insurance" that will not/cannot be used.
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2011
I am a 77-year-old man who was stranded at the intersection of US 90 and US 49 waiting for an AAA tow truck for over two hours in 100-degree temperature today. It is not as if I were lost in the boondocks or Cleveland or somewhere inaccessible.
I have been an AAA member 41 years, though I have only used your services fewer than half a dozen times. Please consider our relationship terminated! My card has been ritually burned.
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2011
While on vacation at Walt Disney World, my car battery indicator lit up and my car shut off. I called AAA and they sent someone to check my vehicle, and if necessary, replace the battery. When the gentleman checked the car, he informed me that it was not the battery but the alternator. We called AAA again and "Tim" informed us that the AAA Car Care Center was closed (it was Sunday), but that they could tow my car Monday morning and have it repaired. I questioned him regarding prices and although he did not tell me the cost directly, he reassured me that they do not gauge prices.
Because they were AAA, I believed them and agreed to have my car towed on Monday morning. When the service representative called me on Monday morning, he informed me that they had checked my car. The problem was the alternator and it would cost me $579 to replace it. I told them that it was too much money. They said that to have my car picked up, I would have to pay $79 for the diagnostic. To pay the diagnostic or to tow the car to another shop, along with a two-year old kid--I figured I didn't have much choice in the matter and agreed to have them fix the car.
I trusted AAA not to ** me over but they did. It is true that I could have had my car towed elsewhere, but they made sure it wasn't convenient to do so. We did call shops around the area for comparison and the highest was $370. We even called the closest Mazda dealership who would sell us a brand new alternator for $317. The one we got from AAA Car Care Center is a rebuilt one. Its truly disheartening to know that AAA cares so little for their clients. And I can imagine how many people are being taken advantage of in there.
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2011
I am stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire in Phoenix, Arizona (4th largest city in the country) on a Friday morning. I placed my call at 11 a.m. and here I sit, going on an hour later, with no one here to help me. I pay $140.00, annually, for two 'plus' level services with AAA. This is a horrifically bad experience. It's 100 degrees and my car is non-motoring.
Reviewed Aug. 19, 2011
I called on 8/5/11 at 2:15 for tow service. The operator told me that the truck would arrive within the hour. The truck did not arrive within the hour. After several calls to AAA we were told (around 4:00 p.m.) that they finally found a truck for us to be towed and it would not arrive until about 4:45. The truck did arrive and the service person was very courteous and professional (this was Casey Towing.). I think that when a call is placed for towing, the operator should first contact a towing company and then call us back when they found a truck that would tow us instead of giving us an hour time frame. This was very poor customer service and very frustrating.
Reviewed Aug. 17, 2011
My husband called AAA to get my car towed. I am in Phoenix, AZ, in the middle of summer, the actual date is August 17th 2011. My husband had to go to work because they took over an hour and a half to arrive here and they refused to pick my car up! I was stuck on the side of the road with my son and the tow truck driver was so rude to me, it was one of the worst experiences I have ever had in my life. My husband has paid his AAA for years and hardly ever uses their services, yet, when we really need them, they left my son and I abandoned on the side of the road in 110 degrees weather!
They should face charges for such incompetence, unprofessional, and rude service! I forgot, my husband had advised the person on the phone that he would not be able to be here if they took any longer than the hour that they had promised they would take. They took almost two hours!
I was stuck on the street with my son for four hours at 110 degree temperatures! I lost my car, due to not being able to get it towed and not being able to get it out of the road! I cannot afford to get my car out of the tow yard now!
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2011
Monday evening, 8/8/11, en route home, the car stopped and would not start again. Having to walk quite a distance from home did not do my husband any good as he is having leg and back problems.
We called AAA for roadside assistance around 20 to 7 p.m. I was told someone would call back shortly. One hour later and not hearing anything, I called AAA again. I was told it should be only another 10 to 15 minutes and my husband should go back to the car to wait. Having no other car, we enlisted the help of a neighbor to drive my husband back to the car.
Two hours later, they were still waiting at the car. I made another call to AAA. The agent apologized but that was no consolation for all the stress and strain. Someone finally called my husband on the neighbor's cell phone and was told someone would be there within the hour.
Unbelievable! My husband finally got home around 10 p.m. letting the tow truck take the car to the service station. A total of almost four hours wait! There was no explanation on why the delay. I can not believe a big outfit like AAA would be so lax. I will now have second thoughts in dealing with AAA.
Reviewed Aug. 8, 2011
I bought a AAA battery with a 100% 36 month free replacement warranty on 8/5/2010 here it 8/8/2011 and I need a new battery and what to my surprise do u think happened??...Not a damn thing. They sent out a technician who tries for over an hour to charge the battery and of course it won't hold the charge, to which he tells me that because he cannot properly test the battery because my husband was working on the timing belt and while it looked as if the car was dismantled the only thing off the car was the tire, but I was informed that the car has to be in "proper working condition" .... hello the only thing not on the car was the tire.
Either way the technician advised us to get a portable battery charger and run an extension cord out the window and try charging the battery overnight...in the rain nonetheless. So after the technician tries to charge me for the service call and I call his supervisor they decide not to charge me and send out another technician who gives me the same run around....in the end I'm going to be charging my battery overnight through the window with an extension cord. I truly wish that after 7 yrs with AAA Gold membership that I had gone to Autozone and saved a few dollars and bought the damn battery there.
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2011
Worst Service .. Called AAA emergency road service and then they transferred me to Morris County NJ club AAA ... who logged my call at 0110 PM EST and the towing car arrive at 0330 PM EST. After that the rude towing guy parked my broke car in middle of the apartment parking and refused to correct it and drove away. the towing service used was Powder Mill Towing Inc, Littleton Rd, Parsippany. Dont wait for NJ AAA towing service .. they suck. They charged me $175 for 27 mile drop to my apartment at commercial rate.
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2011
My car broke down on the very busy Baltimore beltway. It was mid-afternoon on a record hot day (100 degrees at the time). I couldn't stay in the car because as soon as the engine cut out, the heat instantly became unbearable (130 degrees inside the car within two minutes).
AAA's terms clearly state the following: "Remain with the vehicle to receive service; however, under extenuating circumstances exceptions can be made." When I called, I informed "Tammy" of these terms. She was unaware of them, and said nothing could be done for me. I reiterated the situation, and she agreed to ask her supervisor. In less than 15 seconds, she was back on the phone with the same answer: "No sir. There is nothing we can do for you. You have to be with the car."
Of course, the car is 50 miles from my home, and I have no other car. I paid extra for AAA's "plus" membership, and it took me 13 tries to get through on their "help" line (several disconnections while on hold, several calls simply didn't go through, several busy signals).
Reviewed July 23, 2011
I went to a local AAA Office in Fresno to renew my car registration. I was told by a woman who was assisting me that she would be unable to renew my registration at this time since they can only renew registrations that were to expire by the end of the month (my registration was not to expire until the 8th of the following month) She told me to go to the local DMV office or to come back next month when registration was to expire.
I thought that this was one of the conveniences of having a AAA membership. So much for customer service. I guess I'll just renew my registration online with the DMV. It's hard to believe that they have better customer service!
Reviewed July 23, 2011
First, I am a member since 2005. On July 21st at about 3:20 PM (Arizona Time), I had a flat tire while driving in highway 60 towards east (of course, that is in Phoenix). So, I called for road assistance to telephone number 602-274-1114, and using my mobile phone number **. I gave the lady all the information that she asked for, including which exit was near to where I parked my care (I managed to park on the right of the carpool). The lady told me that a tow car will be there to help me at around 3:55 PM. I waited; nobody called, or came as told.
Thanks to somebody who stopped, my car was towed to a safe place, and the damaged tire was replaced with the spare tire. Of course, I paid him whatever he asked for. After the completion of this task, I called to see what happened to my service using the same number (and pressed option 3). To my surprise, the lady told me that there was no such service. It means to say that I would have been stranded with my wife under that heat forever. The lady asked whether I would request a new service and I said, “Forget it. I no longer need it, but I want to speak to a supervisor.”
At almost 4:30 PM, I was connected to a supervisor. He took all the information and asked me what I want. I replied that, “First, I would like my first call to be tracked and see what happened. It is because I don't think that I would be feeling safe anymore, if AAA cannot help me when I have such an incident. Secondly, you must reimburse me the $120.00 I paid to the guy who helped me.” Just imagine you are in a crippled car on the left side of carpool, with cars passing by at a speed of 70 MPH and above. The biggest joke which shows how confused AAA gets is that at 5:30 PM, somebody called from AAA asking me if I am with my car, and if it is in a safe place.
Reviewed July 14, 2011
My truck stopped running while on the road and I needed to get it towed. I called AAA and the representative called me back at 3:37 pm and told me that the tow was set and the average time in my area was 45 minutes. One hour later, the AAA representative called back to say that they had not been able to find a tow service yet. Around 5 pm, AAA called to let me know they had found a tow service but he would be around for another 90 minutes. At around 9 pm, I cancelled the tow because the driver called and said he would be around for at least another hour.
The next day, I called again to try to get my truck towed. The AAA representative asked if I would like to have it towed to the AAA Car Care Center in Winston Salem, NC (the closest one). Even though my first experience with a AAA Car Care Center in Greensboro, NC had been negative, I decided to give them the benefit of the doubt because I have been very pleased (up to now) with the service I have gotten from AAA. The Car Care Center called me and told me that the mechanic had "tested" both fuel pumps and could not tell which one was bad (?). They wanted to replace both pumps for $1000+-. I told them that I could not afford this and they called back with an offer to replace the in-tank pump for $650 +-. I knew that this was a high price for the work, but I knew that I could not replace the in-tank pump myself and since the truck had already been towed to their shop, I felt that I was "over-a-barrel" and agreed to have them replace the in-tank pump only. They said they would call me and let me know if that fixed the problem.
They called the next day and said the truck was fixed. When I went to pick it up, they told me that the mechanic had removed the gas tank and found that the in-tank pump was not the problem and so they reinstalled the gas tank (no charge). Then they replaced the front pump, which I had not authorized them to do and which was much easier to do (less than half the labor) and charged me $630+- for the work. When I protested, they reduced the bill by one hour labor. In order to get my truck, I had to pay the charge. When I inspected the gas tank, I could clearly see that no one had tried to loosen any of the bolts. The front fuel pump average part cost is +-$125. It's a fairly simple job, which I have done several times in the past to my vehicles. Had they been honest and told me it was the front pump, I would have replaced it myself rather than pay their overblown price.
It was a clear case of bait-and-switch. It was clearly stated on the paperwork that I only authorized the in-tank pump to be replaced. This was clearly a violation of ethics and may be actionable under the law. I hope that we can resolve this incident and that you will take actions to ensure the continued good reputation of AAA.
Reviewed July 12, 2011
Two years ago, I traveled to North Carolina for my daughter's wedding. On the return trip home to Pennsylvania, my car broke down twice because my alternator broke. I had AAA Plus, which allowed 100 miles of towing maximum. I had to use the service, which I purchased, in order to get to the auto mechanic to repair my car so that I could get back home. I was under the limit for that year. The following year, I was notified that I was no longer allowed to have AAA Plus; Classic AAA was my only option. I was very upset, needless to say, and felt that this company did not honor the service that I purchased. However, I reluctantly went ahead and paid for Classic AAA. It is now two years later, and they are still refusing to allow me to purchase AAA Plus. I have been a member since 1997. I am 55 years old, a single mother, and I need AAA Plus. They have not honored their company's policy.
Reviewed July 9, 2011
I am a AAA member. I pay $89.00 a year and this member ship service me no purpose. I tried on serveral occassions to let the Antioch, Ca AAA office assist with travel. Corporate had to get involve and resolve the matter the first incident. They ask me to give them another chance and stay a member. I ask for assistance a few weeks ago. Nothing, from the Antioch, Ca location. I just paid June 2011 to renew my member and I'm upset. Had I knew they weren't going to be of assistance again. I would've renewed my membership. I've left messages at AAA Executive office and no call back. I need help
Reviewed July 6, 2011
I moved from Alabama to Vermont. I paid a local Vermont locksmith to open my apartment since I have premiere membership. I was not aware that this service would not be reimbursed by AAA.
Reviewed June 30, 2011
My brand new 2011 Honda CR-Z was towed by an AAA garage from my home to a local Honda dealership. When I picked the car up from the dealership that night, the front wheel was damaged. It looked like it was bent from the car being on an angle (like when it was towed). In my very first conversation with AAA, they asked me how I knew it was the tow truck driver's fault. They scheduled an appointment for an adjuster to come see the vehicle, but never showed up or called. Two days later, they promised to call me back and took another day to do so. When the adjuster came out, he said that he didn't think the tow truck driver did it without further explanation. He said that the dealer must have done it and advised me to call the dealer. The dealer, of course, said they did not do it and referred me back to AAA. In subsequent calls to AAA, I was told that my only option was to take it to small claims court. They did not offer me a process by which I could submit a complaint or claim for the repair in writing.
Reviewed June 29, 2011
On 06-28-11, I went to the AAA auto care facility in Gastonia to have my car inspected. I saw no customers but 4 employees. One was in the bay playing with his cell phone; one was standing in a corner; and two were at a desk. Neither of them looked up until I walked up to one of them. I asked if they could inspect my car and he said, "Yeah!" I left my car at the bar door. I cannot remember an inspection taking more than 20 minutes and this one took 45 minutes. I went to check on my car twice and it was up on a lift and no one was around it. I was not sure where everyone was or what they were doing. Finally, they finished. I paid and left. I did not get a copy of my signed receipt, only the inspection form.
Today (06-29), I had to get my tag and found out that the wrong VIN number was entered into the system so I could not get my tag. The representative at the Lincolnton DMV said that the inspection facility just needed to re-enter the VIN number (they entered a W instead of a 3) and it would override the error. I called AAA Auto Care (I had to look up the number since I didn't have a receipt) and after going through the options and the music while on hold, a guy answered and I explained the situation. He said he was the manager, but he didn't know how to fix the problem. I told him what the DMV representative said, and he said he would check and get back to me. When I did not hear back from him in 10 minutes, I called again and he said for me to bring the car back and they would re-inspect it.
I explained that I did not have time to drive 20 miles back to Gastonia and wait another 45 minutes -- I had to get back to work. I again told him about re-entering the number and asked if he wanted to speak to the representative with the DMV. He said he would call the DMV and get back to me. Again, I called and he said he was trying to call the Lincolnton DMV, I had already offered him the opportunity to talk to them before. Finally, he called me back about 40 minutes after my first call and said he talked to the DMV and they said he had to re-inspect my car. I told him that was absurd, that I just left the DMV and that was not what they told me. I told him I was not driving back to Gastonia.
After he hung up (or got disconnected) twice, he said he would just reimburse me for the inspection. I wasted 45 minutes of my time getting it inspected, then going to the DMV and waiting another 40 minutes for him to tell me he would give me my money back. This is totally unprofessional and poor management. There were 4 employees. No one was doing anything, and then they still make a mistake. And then they don't care that I have to get off of work again and get my car inspected and go back to the DMV. I can understand why they did not have any customers and I will make sure and tell everyone I know to never use them. What a waste.
Reviewed June 17, 2011
I have AAA Plus with RV. Our RV had a broken axial and we needed a tow. We were told that someone would be out within 2 hours. After 2 hours, I called back and was told to call the tow company direct to find out when. The man told me that he was too busy to look for a hauler big enough today and that maybe he could tomorrow. We were stranding in a parking lot. I called AAA back and she said that she would try elsewhere. She called me back a while later and told me that they could not find anything.
That we were on our own and that if we find something, they would reimburse us. So, we took our chances and drove it to the nearest garage who was able to have a hauler in 5 minutes (we didn't need it then as they are fixing it). So, AAA just left us stranded with no help! This was in Salisbury, Ma. I went to my local AAA and was told that they should have found someone and that they will give me a $30.00 credit for RV coverage for next year. This does not solve the problem that I was told that they could not do anything for us and we were on our own in a strange place. We drove the 4 miles to a garage where the people are very nice. We left the camper and they are fixing it. I was very worried that the axial would fall off before we drove it to the garage. I just want this resolved so that AAA does not tell anyone else that "you are out of luck to get any help from AAA."
Reviewed May 25, 2011
I just came from the gas station, filling up my diesel costs $104. It made it home and would not start so I made an arrangement to have it fixed.I called AAA to tow it to my mechanic. When he made the repairs he called me and told me it was low on fuel. The fuel light was on.
This guy is a close friend of mine that is why he is the only person I let work on my autos. And I know he did not drain the fuel out of my truck. It took the tow truck driver almost two hours to make a 15-mile trip to my friend's place. And now I have an empty tank. A 26-gallon tank drained at $4.49 a gallon. I am not happy about this. I want my $116 of fuel back.
Reviewed May 23, 2011
I waited almost two hours for a tow last night. After the first hour I called their dispatcher who told me that the truck was on the scene. That was a flat out lie. After the second hour, I called and was told that a flat tire became a tow for another customer, so it would be another hour probably. Since I didn't feel like waiting three hours total, AAA suggested that I get a ride home and they will arrange for the pickup of my car and take it to my repair shop later that night.
Well, I called my repair shop this morning and they didn't have the car! I called AAA and they had no idea where my car was! After many frustrating phone calls, I find out that AAA never even picked the car up. Since the problem occurred on a Sunday night, my car was sitting in an open parking lot, and since they needed to flat tow it, there would have been easy access.
Today it is blocked in and they won't be able to get to it until maybe tonight. So it's not going to be repaired until tomorrow at the earliest. This is totally unacceptable. AAA service is terrible and not recommended by me. They need to fix things or other similar services (like Progressive) will replace them pretty quickly.
Reviewed May 19, 2011
I called the branch manager in Warwick (Frank) and asked for an exception so I could return my 92-year old mother in-law's registration and plates there. He refused. I had spoken to the Providence earlier (called that office in error) and she was more than willing to accommodate. I have four memberships in my household and rarely use them. I am very upset that he did not have enough compassion to make an exception for a woman that age with many health issues. I have lost all faith and respect in your company.
Reviewed May 14, 2011
second. I assume Ginger was a manager. To make a long story short, I decided to cancel because I, at this point, did not trust anyone at AAA.
I asked Ginger to cancel my membership right away and refund the $56.00 charge plus refund my check of $10.00 deposit. Ginger said my account would be credited right away. My $56.00 was pending at this point but the next day taken out of my account. Five days later, nothing because AAA decided to steal my money. I filed a complaint with BBB but they have not yet been contacted by AAA Auto Club South, here in Florida.
Reviewed May 3, 2011
My AAA membership expired and I had just enough money on me to renew my membership, well it turns out the basic membership was not what I needed. So I need to upgrade so I can get my car towed for unlimited amount of miles rather than pay $5.00 each mile after the first 5 miles which are free. Well it turns out that for the PLUS membership, that I have to wait 3 days to roll over before I can even use the PLUS benefits.
I had to wait a full day to find an affordable tower and still had to pay almost close to the amount for my car to get towed. Now I complained on the phone for 30 minutes but got nowhere and they didn't even call me back to work something out or even ask for assistance. It was an emergency situation and they did almost nothing.
Reviewed April 20, 2011
My jeep was towed on Friday night because it would not turn on. According to the mechanics, the jeep had an issue with fuel pump and needed to be replaced. The charge for it was about $687.00. The jeep was supposedly ready on Wednesday, April 20, 2011. The vehicle turned out fine but then it would not turn on according to the mechanics. Now, it is the fuse box that needs to be replaced. He stated that it was about another $350.00. The secretary does not even bother to give updated phone calls so one must constantly keep calling to make sure that the job is being taken cared of. I feel that I am being taken advantaged of with the price, that they are giving me the run around for my money and playing guessing games. In addition, the place closes at 5:00 p.m. and the secretary does not again bother to call the clients to inform them regarding the status and update on the vehicle.
Reviewed April 11, 2011
I called AAA to tow my car to a near by garage for repair. I was waiting nearly 2 1/2 hours for the truck to show up. When I called to complain, I was put on hold for around ten minutes. When that operator gave me the person with whom I could file a formal complaint, she put me on hold for fifteen minutes. It is moved on to three hours of waiting time, and still no tow truck. As an AAA member who never uses their services because of keeping our cars in good repair, we think this is ridiculous service.
Reviewed March 30, 2011
I bought new car that included roadside assistance. I called to cancel my AAA membership. They said it would be cancelled when it expires next February! They referred me to member services department. After waiting 10 minutes, I got a voice message saying that the voicemail box was full! Also, my 90-year-old father mistakenly paid his membership twice. I called and they said they would apply the extra payment to his next year membership. If he wanted a refund, he'd have to submit it in writing to Member Services. We did that, and haven't heard a word.
Reviewed March 22, 2011
Requested assistance from Carolyn to book a flight, hotel, and shows in Las Vegas. She hasn't returned my call in a week. I left a message for the supervisor Tegist on 3/21, explaining that she never returned my call. Also, in 3/2010, AAA screwed up my hotel and show reservations in New York, New York.
Reviewed March 12, 2011
I recently moved from Florida to South Carolina. I renewed my AAA membership with my new address over three weeks ago. I am still waiting for my membership card and my husband's membership card. At the time of renewal, I was informed it would take 5 to 7 business days. I have placed three calls to AAA in South Carolina regarding our membership cards.
I was informed that I needed patience, it is in the mail. Please assist us in obtaining our membership cards. Thank you.
Reviewed Feb. 25, 2011
AAA is not an honorable company. We've been paying dues for AAA for four years and have only used the service twice--once for a battery charge and another for unlocking a door. When it came to our first tow, we did not know that you had to call AAA first (again, we've hardly used the service). You cannot simply provide your card after the driver arrives even though they accept AAA.
AAA would not pay for the $75 tow. After weeks of arm twisting, they finally paid a $20 reimbursement. We feel that they should pay for this particular (first) tow given the amount we've paid over the years and the infrequency of our usage. They evidently value the easy money in their pocket rather than long term members. We feel duped and canceled our membership. Beware of what you may expect from AAA as they did not come through when we needed them. Save your due money for those rare times when you do need road service because AAA might simply try to get out of it.
Reviewed Feb. 22, 2011
On December 16, 2010, my jeep broke down in downtown Raleigh. The engine was not turning over; this had occurred one other time a month before, and it resolved itself when the weather dried up.
I called AAA; they came to tow the vehicle to their shop on Avant Ferry Rd. They had called and told me that they did not know what the problem was but noticed that the crank sensor was bad and the valve cover gasket was leaking. They called and I authorized them to replace them. They did tell me that they were unsure if that was the problem. Then I went to pick up my jeep on December 21. It was 5pm, when they called me to come get the jeep. My mother drove me to pick it up, and they made us wait 30 minutes as the jeep was in the garage still. When the keys were handed to us, the lights went off and the technicians were leaving.
That is when I discovered that my windows did not go down, the time and temperature gauge did not work, and the dome lights and headlights had to be manually turned off instead of being on a timer. We went back inside and were told the technicians had left the premises. The man at the front then said, "At least we fixed one problem." Disappointed, I then called the AAA closer to where we live (Glenwood Avenue) and told them about our experience. Now I had a jeep that started but with all new electrical issues.
I could not drive the jeep in fear that something else was going to go wrong. After the holidays, I brought the jeep to AAA on Glenwood Avenue. This time, I was told that the master switch was bad ($98.83), then I was told that the computer in the door ($546.96) wasn't sending a signal to the main computer called bcm. Then once again, AAA called and said it wasn't the switch or the door's computer but was the main computer itself ($880.38). The new estimated amount was now quoted at $1404.15 total. We asked that the cost be as low as they could get it. On February 2, 2011, I picked up the jeep and the total was slightly lower--$1034.17.
Within 3 days, the jeep went right back to the windows not working, the time and temperature gauge also not working, and the dome lights and headlights to being manually turned off instead of being on a timer. I paid a total of $1367.84 for nothing with no warranty offered other than "a sucks-to-be-you look when I expressed my concern."
Please note I am an unemployed individual with no income, no money for a lawyer, and a car that is still not fixed. I was told by the mechanic Danny that "nobody can guarantee the vehicle will work; it's these new cars." I had to remind Danny that I paid money for service that was not provided and 1999 cars are not new.
Reviewed Feb. 21, 2011
My wife and I bought a cruise (Royal Caribbean International) to the Mediterranean because we wanted to see the pyramids in Egypt. Because of the trouble in Egypt, the cruise line canceled its Egypt stop and instead was going to another port. We then canceled our trip because the pyramids were the reason we even booked the cruise. AAA has told us that they would refund money except $558 insurance, $175 each airfare that was included in the tour package, and AAA $35 processing fee. To me, that is like selling you something, then not having it, but charging you money anyway. I did file a claim to the insurance company to recover money from AAA and the airline. They denied my claim. I am out $943 because the cruise line cannot provide what I originally contracted for. Can you help me?
Reviewed Feb. 21, 2011
Their people were rude, obnoxious, ruthless, just no help. I just thank God, I was not out at night and stranded. I think I was treated very badly and don't appreciate it. I have been a member for about 19-20 years and this is the first time for AAA to go wacko on me, and I just don't appreciate it.
I need to get a full refund of my money and I can take my business elsewhere and hopefully be treated better. AAA sucks, yes AAA is slipping; personnel need to be checked, you cannot be nice about it. I am just fed up with paying out my money and getting nothing in return and also, when you ask to be turned over to a supervisor, they act like they don't even know what you are talking about.
People do not need to be interrogated or hassled when they are already broke down with no transportation. What am I paying for? What type of people, insensitive people, do you have on staff? I am not a happy camper and I am so fed up with AAA. You are not the only ones in town with a tow truck. Just refund me my money. Another thing, your people do not listen when you are speaking to them and they take down the wrong information. This is just not right.
Reviewed Feb. 9, 2011
Monday, Feb 7th, I called AAA at 1pm to have my car towed to Car X. Due to previous winter conditions. They said it wouldn't be until 3:45pm until they would be able to get me.
No problem, I understood. Once it was 4pm, I began calling several times to check status. My office closed at 4:30pm. They finally told me that they would not be able to reach me until 6:00 that evening.
How the **** did we go from 3:45 to 6pm? That is ridiculous and unacceptable. Once my office closed, I had to sit in my car for an hour and a half waiting and they still hadn't showed up.
By that time I was beyond fed up and left the car at my job then had a friend use his uncle's truck to tow my car. If I'm going to have to do that, what is the purpose of me paying for AAA?
Reviewed Feb. 3, 2011
In a nut shell, we left for a vacation on a Disney Cruise from the 6th to 13th. We did not have documentation at all for the cruise or air fare. We are going to sue AAA Chicago office, and demand for a full refund. We are afraid we can’t go on our trip.
Reviewed Feb. 3, 2011
I moved from Vermont to Connecticut. I called to report my change of address. My membership card is **. I was advised that I would have to be transferred to another zone, but I said nothing about my having to do it. I presumed AAA would make the transfer. My card expiration date is 1/09/12. I was not aware that you would be so crass as to give me a two-year card, but I would have to pay annually. The New England office did nothing because I moved. My membership evidently expired. When I called in today to ask for help about my dead battery (only the second time I've ever called you for assistance), I was advised that I was no longer a member, and my membership had expired. I am so pissed about this; I'm 84 years old, a retired Connecticut state trooper. I served the public faithfully, and I never heard of getting a two-year card, but only a one-year membership! Northern New England made no effort to help me or properly advise me. Right now, in my mind, AAA sucks!
Reviewed Jan. 29, 2011
The driver of the AAA truck refused to let me and my son through the street even though I pulled short so he could pull over into an open space to let us by. He not only refused to pull over to the space, but he also drove up to my car so I could not pass, forcing me to back down a two-way street.
After a long stand off, I asked him if it wasn't kind enough of me to stop and let him by? He just smirked and ignored my comment. Then, he threatened to come out and accost me. My son was shocked as he saw his dad trying to do the right thing, only to see an ugly example of a human being who not only threatened me, but also tarnished the image of AAA, which I had been a member of. I'm sure he too will have second thoughts about joining such an organization. That person should not be driving for you and on the road. Someone who threatens the public should not be in a position to work to help the public. Again, this person driving the ** truck on January 29th 9am, in Somerville, MA should not be driving for AAA. It is a shame that such people represent you.
Reviewed Jan. 26, 2011
I have been an AAA Plus member for 15 years. My alternator went out last night approximately 35 miles from home. I called for battery service around 9 pm. I was told that the service was not available. I then asked for a tow. And they said that was also unavailable for anything more than 10 miles (I have 100 mile coverage). When I asked what I should do, they responded that I should get a private company tow and seek reimbursement from AAA. Do I need to say anything else? Fortunately, a local AAA guy responded and said he would tow my vehicle. I had a friend in the area who gave us a ride because AAA also said that they would not get us home.
Reviewed Jan. 21, 2011
I was stuck in the snow on 12/26/10. I called AAA, as I am an AAA Plus member, at 10 pm. They kept saying that they were trying to get to me, but were too busy. After 13 hours, an AAA rep told me that it was "okay" to just abandon my vehicle, and I will be refunded for any charges. My car was towed by an AAA towing company, who charged me $220 in cash to get my car. After I submitted for my refund, AAA sent me a check for $40.
Reviewed Dec. 28, 2010
I was pressured into buying a Great Choice plan which they told me would cover everything I needed on my vehicle. Well, after almost a year, I had a problem and nothing was covered. My mechanic told me the claims process in itself was the worst he had ever seen and that this was something called a product warranty which I don't know what that means but my mechanic made it sound like it wasn't a real warranty.
Well then, they wouldn't let me cancel which I was told I could so I had to chalk it up as a $2000 loss. But it wasn't all bad. A friend sent me to a company AVP. I think it's American Vehicle Protection and I got real warranty for $500 less and they were pretty nice during the whole thing too and no one could beat the price. They didn't pressure me and I am happy so far but I have only had one claim paid but it's still better than my previous experience.
Reviewed Dec. 14, 2010
My car hit a patch of ice and ended up stuck in the ditch. After repeated calls and delays, we were told that the wrecker could not make it up the hill to our car and we would need to contact someone else to help us. If we are stranded in the ditch, please tell me how we are going to have the yellow pages or other resources available to us to do this? Isn't this what we are paying for? Shouldn't they have made an effort to have found someone else for us? Makes us not want to renew, when you are paying for something and not getting decent service.
Reviewed Nov. 21, 2010
On October 28, 2010, I had started a membership with AAA and i had to pay $91, but 5 minutes later , I had called AAA back and cancelled the membership and they told me I would receive my refund of $91 back on my debit card within 2 to 3 weeks. Every time I call AAA, they say that they are going to put my money back on my card. It has been more than 3 weeks and still no money. What can I do?
Reviewed Nov. 20, 2010
I have had AAA on auto and home since 1996 (in California). In 2007 I moved to Oklahoma and transferred insurance here. I had never had a problem with AAA-Southern California. Since moving here, I have had the following problems:
The insurance agent, Tmia ** in Tulsa, tried to sell me a non-AAA policy. Two years later, she sent me documents to sign that, I think, were fraudulent and which I corrected. I believe her intent was to be able to deny a claim because I had submitted fraudulent documents (the ones she submitted). Tmia, if you see this, know that I have the documents and I am prepared.
I recently filed a claim for auto damage where I hit a refrigerator that was dumped in the right lane of an expressway. The van in front suddenly swerved left to the middle lane, and in front was a "box". It was a refrigerator that had been dumped in the lane. The middle lane had traffic and my only option was to brake hard. Crash! AAA sent me a letter that they concluded that I was "unable to control the vehicle", based on their investigation. I've sent 3 emails to the adjuster regarding this and one voice mail message and have had no response. I doubt that there was an investigation. My next step is to take this to the Oklahoma Insurance Commission and file a complaint.
Part of the complaint will be that I've received renewal notices ranging from $600 to $1000 (approximate) for this policy. Nothing I have received verifies which amount for the renewal is correct. Some of this is based on AAA-Oklahoma not crediting me with completing the safe-driving course for seniors (I wonder how many other seniors weren't credited if they didn't complain). I don't think that accounts for a $400 delta in their increase in premiums. If they have this many problems with me (one customer), do they have problems with others who aren't diligent and don't check, as the teen-agers obviously recognize as a reality?
A minor issue is that I have been a customer of AAA since 1996, but they show that I have been a customer for 2 years. That's not a big thing. However, longevity as a customer does affect rate. Therefore, my rates have been higher. Is there a reason this hasn't been corrected even though I've requested it? In fairness, I will say that AAA (in California) never made a mistake. In Oklahoma, it has been one screw-up followed by more. I'm not suggesting you not do business with this company (it is a good one). But in Oklahoma, they don't seem to perform as well as elsewhere. I will follow-up with the results of my complaint which involves attempted fraud by an agent (supervisor, company).
Reviewed Nov. 15, 2010
I called for roadside assistance for a dead battery. The person on the phone told me that they could do a jump start, check the battery, and replace it if necessary. Upon arrival, which was very prompt, the technician said that he could not check the battery or replace it because it was night and he could not see to get to the battery. I have a Chrysler PT Cruiser, and I told the dispatcher on the phone this information.
The technician should have been prepared for this, but obviously was not. He proceeded to try and jump my car, but he did not have a jump box and his jumper cables would not fit. I gave him my jumper cables and he was able to jump the car. I told the tech that I had another car in my garage with a dead battery, but that AAA informed me that I would have to make a separate call to jump that car.
The tech said that he would do it for me. He asked me to move my PT Cruiser to an area closer to the garage since it had to stay running to build a charge. I moved and parked in the only free area near the garage which was a tow away zone. He attempted to jump my other car, but was unsuccessful. During this time, the PT Cruiser had died. While trying to jump it again, the tech broke my jumper cables and was unable to perform a jump. He said that he would come back first thing in the morning, and told me to call the office directly.
He did not offer to help me move the PT Cruiser back to a safe parking place. I did not think about the tow away zone since the car was in a parking lot in an apartment complex and it was already almost midnight. I left the car there and went to sleep. At 6:00 am, I went outside to check on the car and call the AAA office for the callback and the car was gone. I checked everywhere, and then I realized the car had been towed. After calling the apartment office and locating the impound lot the car had been taken to, I called AAA and tried to get them to cover the fees so I could get the car out.
They said that I would have to get the car out myself and file a claim for reimbursement when I had the receipt for the fees. I did not have the funds at that time, so I had to wait until I could get the money. The car was in the impound lot for five days. Finally, I was able to get the money and get AAA to install a new battery and get the car working. After sending the receipt and talking to Vera Ortiz, the only fee AAA would cover was the towing fee. I pleaded with Vera to take it up with upper management to get the entire amount reimbursed. She informed me that management wanted to deny the entire claim, but she convinced them to refund the towing fee as a courtesy.
I am very disappointed with AAA service and will not renew my membership. I will not recommend AAA to anyone. I have been a member of Allstate Motor Club and have never had any issues with the service. I plan on going back to Allstate when my AAA membership expires.
Reviewed Nov. 12, 2010
I specifically told the AAA national call line staffer to set me up for an automatic renewal for my car insurance plan, as it was up for expiration within a couple days. Apparently, she did nothing. Not only did she not renew my insurance, she didn't tell me she didn't and implied that she would go ahead and do it. I believed that she had set me up for it until I found out a month later about that she had never renewed my insurance plan. I had no idea that this was the case. So, for a month, I was driving around with no insurance at all.
I got a ticket for no insurance, which is a misdemeanor where I am. It's on my record and greatly inflated my insurance rates. I'm really furious that I was driving around for a month with no coverage when I had been driving with the belief that I was fully protected. So, when I got into a fender bender and told the police, "Oh yeah, I have insurance, I just didn't have the updated policy with me." I was unknowingly committing fraud by telling the cop inaccurate information that I believed was true.
Well, the driver I got in a fender bender with is now threatening to do all sorts of things, including getting me in trouble for "lying" to the cops. I only found out that I'd been driving without insurance because I got in this fender bender and the other driver called me up, furious! I'm paying a fortune for a lower-type insurance plan now. AAA sucks.
Reviewed Nov. 6, 2010
I locked my keys in my car at about 3:30 am on Saturday, November 6 at a Turkey Hill on Rt 901 in Levelle near Ashland, Pennsylvania. I called AAA for roadside assistance and was transferred to Allentown branch. They got my info about my car and my location and told me help would be there in about an hour. Three young men stopped for smokes and offered to keep me company until help arrived.
We went inside the store to stay warm. It was about 35 degrees outside. We were asked not to loiter after a half hour and stood outside by our vehicles for another half hour. I then called AAA again since by this time we were all pretty cold and taking turns sitting in their car to stay warm and still no help had come. I was informed that no one was answering the phone and the closest help was 62 miles away, and they refused to make the drive. AAA suggested I call the police. They didn’t know how to help. They would keep calling places.
I called the police who refused to help me due to liability reasons. They suggested a locksmith. I dialed several from the Turkey Hill with a phone book, but of course at 4:30 in the morning no one was open. I had some random folk offer to help by giving me a wire hanger (which I accepted) or helping me smash my window (which I declined).
I called AAA back after getting hold of a locksmith who ran a 24-hour emergency service but was nearly an hour away. They told me I had to pay his bill and send them the receipt and they would refund me. While I waited, me and the young men tried getting the door with the coat hanger. It worked after nearly half an hour of trying. I called AAA and told them I got in, but I couldn’t get hold of the locksmith since he wasn’t in his shop anymore. They asked me to continue to wait until the smith got there who would want to be paid for driving an hour and not being needed.
I’m not upset with dispatch, but with the many garages that are about. I’ve dealt with AAA now for three years and used their service many times. While not always prompt, they get the job done satisfactorily. I think that if you sign up to be a contractor to work for AAA and help folks out on the road, you know it will be at all hours of the day or night. To have several garages ignore phone calls for help is disgusting. I stood out in the cold for nearly two hours in all with no help from AAA. To be rescued by three total strangers who stood in the cold with me instead of the folks vie paid to do just that blows my mind. I suppose there were no real ramifications to my wait. I was upset and cold in just a sweatshirt but I doubt there was any lasting damage.
Reviewed Nov. 3, 2010
I'm a Fare Club Member. I charge every month to my Onyx Free Spirit Card, my membership doesn't show up online when I put in my # at spiritair.com. I've called my credit card, they verified that I'm a member and that I charge every month to get the complimentary member. However, I've talked to Spirit Airlines and they don't see my statements.
I've been trying to book flights for 3 months now and I didn't want to pay without my discount fare club price. I've been on the phone with at least 30 people in the last 3 months. I got the run around. Some tell me check Oct. 1st, I did, nothing, some say check Nov. 1st, I did, nothing. Now the guy told me to check Dec. 1st. I'm fed up because I am a member and now I just booked a flight and had to pay full price. I want this fix now! Why can't someone help me? I've called and called and called, they don't want to help and I don't know where else to go.... Please help!
Reviewed Nov. 2, 2010
I called AAA on September 24, 2010 to renew a membership, which I decided to cancel that same day. I was told that the membership fee would be refunded in a few weeks. I asked for a confirmation number for the cancellation, and was refused. After a couple of weeks, I checked my bank account and the money had not been refunded. I then notified AAA, and spoke with a representative who said that they didn't have a record of the cancellation but she would take care of canceling the account and refunding the money. I called back the following week (October 18, 2010) and the account had not been cancelled; this time the representative assured me that the account had been cancelled, and the money would be refunded.
I received an email on October 18, 2010 about the cancellation, nothing was mentioned about the refund. I contacted AAA on October 26,2010, and was told by a representative that the money was credited to my visa debit card on the evening of October 25, 2010. My bank told me to wait 3-5 business days to see if the money will be in my account; it wasn't. I waited a couple more days, and on November 2, 2010, the money has still not been refunded. I called AAA and they told me that the money was refunded on October 28, 2010, which I now believe is another lie. Every time I call AAA, they refuse to put a supervisor on the phone and they are flat out lying about refunding the money. Not only did AAA not refund the money for the account, I had to pay for a vehicle to be towed.
Reviewed Oct. 28, 2010
Below is my letter addressed to AAA Chief Executive Officer Thomas **
I am a longtime AAA member in good standing. I received your "Be Sure To Vote" guide, including your recommendations on some of the upcoming Propositions on California's ballot. I'm deeply disturbed and offended that a company, whose members are sure to be of various different political leanings, should impose its right-wing anti-environmental agenda on its paying customers. The descriptive wording that you use to argue your point of view on the initiatives is dangerously misleading and deceptive and, to put it kindly, is not based in fact.
You clearly take your cues from the Oil industry, which I guess is understandable, given your reliance on oil to "fuel" your own income. However, it is not appropriate for you to take a public political stance in this election nor in any other; nor is it appropriate for you to send glossy opinion mailings (masquerading as the truth) out to all of your subscribers. I find this pandering disgusting, and beneath a corporation that has long been in good standing. I urge you to abstain in future from advertising your own personal Corporate political agenda dressed as public good to your consumers at large.
I look forward to a personal reply from Mr. **. Please be advised that should I not receive one, I shall cancel my AAA subscription and post this letter widely on numerous social networks and blogs.
Reviewed Oct. 22, 2010
A technician failed to properly tightened the oil drain plug during an oil change. The oil plug fell out, the oil drained out and the engine started smoking, leaving the driver (my daughter) and her vehicle stranded on the interstate in another city. We had to leave the vehicle at the dealership in Columbia SC to get checked out (at the time we didn't know why the car was smoking) and had to use a rental car in the meantime.
While acknowledging their mistake, AAA would only offer to reimburse for the cost of the oil change and diagnostics, but not for the cost ($90) of the rental car required while the car was in the shop (2 days). So, my daughter is out $90 through no fault of their own. I have lost a lot of faith in AAA based on their failure to take responsibility for their mistakes. I can't help but wonder what their position would be if the engine had been ruined. It turns out that they are "a federation of clubs". I wrote the President and CEO and they have no leverage over the local clubs. I will be looking for another roadside assistance plan.
$338 for diagnostics, another oil change, and rental car. Gas and time to travel between Charleston SC and Columbia SC to retrieve the vehicle. Aggravation and insult that an organization as large as AAA would have to be "forced" to do the right thing.
Reviewed Oct. 22, 2010
The service address was **. The date was 10/21/2010, the time was 6:45PM. The service truck said "only AAA" on the side. I did not waste my time getting more details as I had already waited 1 hour and 15 minutes for service. My complaint involves the "you need a new battery scam". This started on the phone with the rep asking me if I had an AAA battery, stating they would have to test the battery. She said this even after I explained that I had inadvertently left the ignition key on for 5 hours and that this mistake had killed the battery and I just needed a jump start. The service truck arrived and the driver said the "company" required that he test the battery and this would just take a few minutes. I explained to him what had happened and that I did not need a new battery, just a jump start. He insisted on running the test and when he was done, surprise, surprise.
He proclaimed that I needed a new battery, but that was no problem because he just happened to have one on his truck. I said "the battery is fine, this is scam to sell people batteries they don't need". I said just jump start it and let me get on my way. He put the booster battery on and the car started instantly. I got in my car and left. I happen to be an engineer and know a lot about batteries. I throughly tested this battery when I got home and it was fine. So either this driver did not know how to test a battery or this whole thing is scam designed to sell naive motorists batteries they don't really need! I did not think AAA engaged in deceptive scams like this and I was seriously disappointed.
Reviewed Oct. 9, 2010
After attending a live performance of 4Troops, a group of Army veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan, at the Grove of Anaheim Theater, 2200 E. Katella Ave. I discovered that my keys were locked in my car at approximately 10:30PM. I called the 800 roadside service number and was told within 20 minutes, there would be a service provider from Top Towing. I waited 30 minutes and called a second time. They told me another 10 minutes. I asked to speak to a supervisor and was connected to a towing company. That individual was curt and disrespectful. When I said that I was scared to be in this parking lot for a long time as I was one of only three cars left and lights were beginning to be turned off. A woman alone in a dark parking lot was scary and it was beginning to rain with no shelter to go to. He responded, "you are not in Compton ma'am, you are in Anaheim!".
I replied, "if that is supposed to console me, it doesn't as I am frightened and it has already been 40 minutes!". He then said, "do you want me to cancel this order then?" in a gruff and abrupt manner as if to say I will leave you stranded! I said, "no sir, I need assistance and I am a Premier AAA card member. I pay extra for this service and I am afraid here all alone". Then he proceeded to tell me I was rude to him and he would cancel the order! Then I called back and spoke to Ms. **, a supervisor who assured me within 5 to 7 minutes, a truck would be there. It took another 15 minutes so I called again and spoke to another supervisor named Randy whom I told my experience to. I reported the towing man's name Sienna, who was so curt and snidely. All he said was "sorry for your troubles Ms. **. If you have any further roadside needs, call us back".
I had been out in the cold, rain and dark parking lot for an hour from 10:50PM when I first reported the incident! Now, I am sick with a cold and so disappointed with AAA services after having been a member for more than 20 years! I always thought that I'd be safe, but felt abandoned, frightened and berated by the towing representative. I am in the process of writing the corporate headquarters as well. This was an experience I wouldn't want another Senior Citizen to have to go through. I am lucky that I don't have Pneumonia as a result of having to be left out in the cold rain for an hour, frightened and alone!
Reviewed Oct. 7, 2010
Their transporting /towing my mini could have easily damaged the mini, if it was pushed in gear in the wrong direction.The transmission destroyed.
Reviewed Sept. 22, 2010
Sept 14, 2010. My truck broke down at work in Ontario, Ca. My wife suggested AAA since they tow up to 100 miles, we heard. After signing up online and paying the membership fee, we were sadly informed that the towing service can take up to 7 days to activate. Probably for this very reason. Minutes later, she receives an email saying all of our services have been activated.
Great, we thought. Let’s call AAA and find out. The phone rep says he (he/she can’t remember) can see we just made a payment and should be covered for either 100 or 40 miles towing, but he couldn’t determine the exact plan purchased. Why he didn’t know which level plan we purchased is beyond me, but what I did know was that he said we were covered for at least 40 miles. My home was around 38 miles away, great. Tow truck driver shows up and reconfirms we have covered service per his electronic computer device. Off we go. Half way there, the tow truck office calls the tow truck driver and says they want me to confirm with AAA about coverage.
I contact AAA (2nd time) and the phone rep reaffirms that I am covered for the towing as per her computer information and will contact the towing company. Upon arriving at our destination the tow truck driver calls his office. No contact made by AAA. My truck cannot be released without coverage consent from AAA, so I call AAA for 3rd time. The 3rd rep tells me she is sorry for the confusion, but since we were new customers we didn’t have towing coverage for first seven days. Even after explaining all that happened, she says it all does not matter but to read our contract. She said if I didn’t pay $279, my truck would be impounded. I was deceived to believe I was covered when I wasn’t. The tow truck driver even said I was ** and allowed me to take a picture of his computer screen for proof.
Reviewed July 10, 2010
I put my trust in the AAA approved shop network but the shop, C&D Garage, in College Park, MD ruined the transmission on my Volvo by neglecting to put synthetic fluid in. The manual clearly stated that this 5-speed required synthetic. I communicated with AAA's "master mechanic" for two weeks to resolve what happened thereby communicate with the dealership and the shop that did the work.
The shop didn't even know the car was a five-speed until I called a salvage yard that seemed to know more about transmissions. So after re-ordering the correct part we agreed to install it at a reduced rate. The issue is that the 12000-mile guarantee and mediation process is worthless if the customer has to prove liability and do all the research. I found that this transmission is also manufactured for some Toyota and failure is rare. The response from the master mechanic about the fluid was, "your car slips gear in third, while it should slip in first if fluid is the problem". I’ve had to take time off work and spend $2000 for parts, labor, and rental cars.
Reviewed May 21, 2010
After booking a 4-day Disney vacation with triple A, in which I specified that I did not want park hopper to save money, but one park per day, I took my family on vacation. On the second day at the park, I was told that my tickets were not valid.
Even though I was staying at a Disney resort for four days, I purchased the Dining Disney plan which to be used at the parks and traveling with a child, the triple A representative assumed that I wanted to go to one park for just one day and that was it. She should have reiterated such a strange request to make sure it was valid. Instead, I had to pay an extra 500 dollars at the gate to have park access for the remainder of the vacation.
Reviewed May 9, 2010
AAA Roadside Assistance Representative finally picked up the phone after being on hold for 20 minutes. AAA stated that their system was down. The first representative stated that it would take 45 minutes for someone to get out to me. After waiting for one hr, I decided to call AAA back for an ETA. Again, I was placed on hold for 20 minutes. This is ridiculous! Roadside Assistance is considered an emergency situation! You wait 20 minutes for someone to pick up the phone and another 45 minutes for someone to get to you.
When I called back, I asked to speak to a supervisor who then told me that it would take 75 minutes for someone to get out to me. I am paying for this service! AAA has a message when you're holding to request for roadside assistance online. Who wants to sit through a series of questions when they are stuck on the side of the road or whatever situation they might be in? That is defeating the whole purpose of having AAA.
Reviewed April 13, 2010
My car broke down on N US-131 on March 31st due to issues with the rear strut and a smoking engine. As an AAA member, I was refereed by a AAA representative to Peterson Services of Cadillac, MI. To avoid additional towing fees, I decided to have my car serviced at Peterson's. Upon arriving at Peterson's the only issues that I was having were with the rear strut and smoke coming from the engine. My car is a 1994 Dodge Intrepid and due to the age of the car, I specifically told the mechanic at Peterson's that I would pay whatever necessary for them to diagnose any issues that the car had and that I would make my decision on whether or not to repair the car based on the quote that they deliver to me.
When they returned with the quote, they notified me that the rear strut would need replacing and that the engine smoke was caused by a Valve Cover Gasket for a total repair value of $767.70. I approved the work for that total shortly after and was told I would receive a call when the work was completed. After not hearing from them for a few days, I called them back and was told that not only had they forgotten to tell me that the car was done but that they had gone ahead and replaced the sway bar link and bushing, work that I had not approved (4-403 Unauthorized Repair). Unaware that unapproved work done to a car is illegal, I went up there to pick up my car (now costing $793.75).
Upon arrival, I was not told that there weren't any other issues with the car so I drove away. I did not even make it a block before my car started shaking and the transmission became stuck in neutral (4-404 Repair Resulting in Additional Damage). I shut the car down, restarted it and was able to drive it the half block back to Peterson's. When I got there, they insisted that there was no issue and after adding some transmission fluid, they told me the car was fine. I then left again and was fortunate enough to make it safely home.
When I arrived at home, I decided to check the transmission fluid again only to find that the engine was smoking again, which was an issue Peterson's was responsible for fixing (4-401 Improper or Inferior Repair). Next, I attempted to start the car only to find that the engine would now not start at all (4-404 Repair Resulting in Additional Damage). I attempted to call Peterson's and was told I had to wait until Monday to talk to the boss. When I called back on Monday (4-12-2010), the boss, who was very rude and unreasonable with me, told me that I would have to pay to tow the car back to their shop and then pay again for any additional issues that they find with the car.
As of now, I am left with a car that does not run and an $800 bill for work that did not fix the issues that I asked to be fixed. The sway bar link and bushing that I was forced to pay for was unlawfully replaced on my car and charged to me. The car itself is also left with issues that were not present before I brought my car to Peterson's (car now won't start and transmission is now having issues). I appreciate any help that Consumer Affairs may be able to give me in dealing with this crooked business and hope that these issues can be resolved as soon as possible. The technician who did the work is Phil. The Boss I talked to was Scott (last name unknown). Conversations were also held with Don *** (owner) who was as uncaring and unhelpful as the rest of the staff.
Reviewed April 13, 2010
I tried to test AAA Texas to see how they would respond to a service call from a member. They said the service call would take at least 1 hour. When I said that I (am member of AAA) would call another provider they seem relieved that I was calling someone else. This is not what I would expect from my preferred service provider, especially if I was a member. I just don't feel that I could trust AAA Texas to meet a needed service call if needed.
Reviewed March 31, 2010
Hello and thank you for considering my complaint submission for publication. I have revised it since more has happened since I first wrote to you today. I can also send photos as well. I also wanted to fix up the typos and I copied my revised version below. thank you again. The incident happened on Sunday March 28, 2010 at 11:00 AM in Federal Way Washington, the tow truck that AAA sent to tow my vehicle completely ruined my entire front end fender of my car. The tow truck company that they sent to help me is called a U.S. Towing and it is based in Seattle Washington.
The driver's name was Abdul (he did not provide last name when I asked). He spent most of the time speaking on his cell phone in a foreign language including when he was in the process of both raising my car up onto his flat bed tow truck and when he was in the process of lowering my car down from it. The distance from where he picked me up at the Walmart parking lot to my destination at the Firestone auto service center is less than two miles.
Once at the Fire Stone parking lot, the driver lowered my car from his tow truck. He did so raising the front of the flat bed very high. As a result the car rolled down off it at a steep incline angle. The result was the front end of my hood banged the ground/tip end of the flat bed steel and bounced down and popped up like it bottomed out very hard. The chains that were attached to my car from his tow truck ripped my front end fender entirely breaking off the headlights, damaging the chrome fender, and damaging the radiator. I immediately took photos of the damage the driver caused.
My purpose for being towed to Firestone was due to a front end harmonic balance pulley that fell off and snapped my serpentine belt. When they saw all the fender damage they stated they could not help with that. I noticed now that my radiator was leaking and that a small pool of fluid was now under it. I took a photo of it. I informed the driver that there was not a fluid leak problem before now and he agreed. I also took photos of his flat bed as proof to show that prior to the damage he caused the flat bed was completely dry.The tow truck driver got off the phone with his dispatcher and said they would pay for the damage they did but I would have to have my car worked on at a specific shop. I asked if the shop was AAA approved and he said yes. He then put my car back on his flat bed with car now leaking fluid and began to drive me to this shop.
Half way to the shop the driver then said to me he was not responsible for the fluid leak because he now remembers it leaking when he first towed my car and that they will not pay for any radiator damage. I said he was responsible and he did not now care what I had to say because according to him I could see for myself the fluid leak on his flat bed when we get to shop and he lowers my car off. He did not know I took photos of his dry flat bed before he put my car back on it. So this is the first lie to my face the driver that AAA sent to me said to me.
The shop he took me to ended up being 15 miles away. It was a small little junk yard-looking shop that was part of a man's house property in south Seattle. The shop name is Preet Auto Body Repair. I found out the shop is not AAA approved, so that is now the second lie to my face this driver told me. Once there, I had no choice but to leave my car for them to fix the front end damage because the tow truck driver said this is the place that his work will pay for because other detail shops are too expensive. He then wanted to leave me there and not give me a ride back home. He said he had other things to do and all he was sent for is to tow me and that was what he did. I had no way home and insisted he drove me back and he finally did. Once home, I called AAA customer service and reported my troubles.
On Monday March 29, Rick **, AAA district manager for Washington State called me and I informed him what happened. He called later and said he went to the shop and that he thinks the shop is good and recommends it. I said that local Better Business Bureau never heard of them and also the tow truck company they sent me is not accredited. Rick Q. talked like he did not care and said this shop mostly fixes taxis so they are not a commercial shop so that was why no one knows of them and that he does back ground checks on tow trucks and they are a good company. He also then argued with me defending the tow truck driver saying any radiator problem was not their fault because they just ruined my fender is all. He then said for me to find a mechanic to prove that when my front end bottomed out and banged down and bounced up off the ground could be specific cause of radiator damage. I called AAA customer support to report how this local district manager was treating me and they did not care saying he is assigned to my case and to work things out with him.
Rick Q. also stated that it is not the tow truck company's fault, I have no transportation currently and that the only reason he thinks I picked Firestone was because they were open on a Sunday. I said yes that is the reason and that now since my car is 15 miles away out of my bus lines, I need to take days off to deal with this and go back and get it. He said that was not their problem and that he will only credit me for one tow. I told him even when they fix the fender damage, I still need my car towed to a shop to fix the original work and that this fender work is adding days to my not having transportation to get to work. He said they could help tow me to another shop at that time but that would be my one credit. This makes no sense they towed me and created twice as much damage and then take me someplace so far out of my way and now this Rick Q. will not even help with crediting my AAA account for two tows? It is now Tuesday and the AAA district manger basically told me he thinks the original damage is not worth fixing based on the year of my car. It is a 1990 Ford Thunderbird. This has been the worst experience and both AAA company and A U.S. Towing have treated my poorly.
Today on Tuesday March 29, 2010 around 2pm I received a phone call from the AAA Washington district manager Rick Q. He told me that he just spoke both A U.S. Towing and to the repair shop Preet Auto Body Repair on my behalf. He said that the repair shop quoted him an estimate of repair work for my car and that it would require them to remove the engine to work on it and that it would be a minimum seven hours of labor alone at around $100 per hour. Plus the parts and that he said the final cost would be around $1000. He then continued to say that he arranged a deal with the A U.S. Towing and that they would offer me $200 for only my fender repair work and nothing about the radiator damage that was done by their tow truck driver. Or they would offer me $400 to take my car now as it is from the repair shop lot. He told me that this was what he thinks is the best option for me because now that he has a appraisal estimate quote from the mechanic at the shop that the cost of fixing it is not worth it since my car is only worth $1200. He suggested I take that offer and wanted to know if I could get to the shop to meet the tow truck manager to sign over the title over to him so he can tow my car away and he will pay me the $400. I told him I was not even at home and I have been taking the bus and would first have to make now new spur of the moment schedule changes again to make it home because that was where my car title is. Also, that I still had no transportation to make it at this such short notice to the repair shop that the tow truck company took my car to that is 15 miles away and that it would take at least three bus transfers to get there. Rick Quintus sounded eager at this point and said he could call the tow truck guy now to probably come pick me up and drive me. I again stated I would have to get back to him because I was far from home and had to finish my obligations at the location I was currently at.
After this phone conversation with Rick Quintus I felt as if something was odd about it because on Monday late in the day the head mechanic at the shop told me he would call me when he had a chance to look over my car to give an accurate estimate. He said he was behind because a car he was working on was taking longer than expected and said he would get to my car when finished with that one. I had not heard from the shop mechanic prior to the Washington AAA district manager phone call so I called the repair shop to check if they would actually confirm what Rick Q. was quoting them at.According to the head mechanic at the shop the shop's policy is to only give such monetary estimates to the owner of the vehicle and not third person parties looking into quotes. He then stated as head mechanic he is the one that would give such an estimate for my car and reiterated that per our conversation Monday he would call me himself. He then said that he never spoke to Rick Q. regarding any monetary quote so he was confused how Rick Q. to quote me what they would charge because he was still behind schedule with another car and has not even looked at my car yet to begin inspecting it for an estimate.
A little later I talked to him again and he said that no one at the shop gave Rick Q. any repair estimate for repair work to the engine of my car. They also told me that the fender work alone would be at least a three hour job if not three and half hours because at minimum by just looking at it they had to fix the fender cracks, fix the broken headlight pieces, attach the entire fender, blend the paint to match my car, and also varnish the chrome to buff out the dent and scratches done to it, but again that was only by glancing. So by Rick Q. telling me that at $100 an hour for just the fender repair and detail would be more like $350 not $200 what he said the tow truck company will give me based on what the fender repair would cost?I feel that the AAA Washington district manager Rick Q. telling me that he spoke to the shop and gave me their quote when the shop denies any such conversation with him and then him suggesting I take the tow truck company deal he worked out before the repair shop even has had a chance to inspect my car for an estimate is basically fraud. This is misrepresentation on behalf of AAA Washington and as a paying member customer I would think they would try to work in my best interest not the best interest of some deal they can make with a contract third party company they work with. Following up from your email. I am sorry could not contact your company directly via email because it would return my reply to your email as not able to send.
Reviewed March 30, 2010
On Sunday March 28, 2010 at 11:00 am in Federal Way Washington, the tow truck that AAA sent to tow my vehicle completely ruined my entire front end fender of my car. The tow truck company that they sent to help me is called A U.S. Towing and it is based in Des Monies, Washington. The driver's name was Abdul (he did not provide last name when I asked). He spent most of the time speaking on his cell phone in a foreign language including when he was in the process of both raising my car up onto his flat bed tow truck and when he was in the process of lowering my car down from it. The distance from where he picked me up at the Walmart parking lot to my destination at the Fire Stone Auto Service Center is less than two miles.
Once at the Fire Stone parking lot, the driver lowered my car from his tow truck. He did so raising the front of the flat bed very high. As a result, the car rolled down off it at a steep incline angle. The result was the front end of my hood banged the ground/tip end of the flat bed steel and bounced down and popped up like it bottomed out very hard. The chains that were attached to my car from his tow truck ripped my front end fender entirely off, breaking headlights, damaging the chrome fender, and damaging the radiator. I immediately took photos of the damage the driver caused.
My purpose for being towed to Firestone was due to a front end harmonic balance pulley that fell off and snapped my serpentine belt. When they saw all the fender damage they stated they could not help with that. I noticed now that my radiator was leaking and that a small pool of fluid was now under it. I took a photo of it. I informed the driver that there was not a fluid leak problem before now and he agreed. I also took photos of his flat bed as proof to show that prior to the damage he caused, the flat bed was completely dry. The tow truck driver got off the phone with his dispatcher and said they would pay for the damage they did but I would have to have my car worked on at a specific shop. I asked if the shop was AAA approved and he said yes. He then put my car back on his flat bed with car now leaking fluid and began to drive me to this shop.
Half way to the shop, the driver then said to me he was not responsible for the fluid leak because he now remembers it leaking when he first towed my car and that they will not pay for any radiator damage. I said he was responsible and he did not now care what I had to say because according to him, I could see for myself the fluid leak on his flat bed when we get to shop and he lowers my car off. He is so stupid he did not know I took photos of his dry flat bed before he put my car back on it. So this is the first lie to my face the driver that AAA sent to me. The shop he took me to ended up being 15 miles away. It was a small little junk yard looking shop that was part of a man's house property in south Seattle. The shop name is Preet Auto Body Repair. I found out the shop is not AAA approved so that is now the second lie to my face this driver told me.
Once there I had no choice but to leave my car for them to fix the front end damage because the tow truck driver said this is the place that his work will pay for because other detail shops are too expensive and he would not tow me to another one. He then wanted to leave me there and not give me a ride back home. He said he had other things to do and all he was sent for is to tow me and that was what he did. I had no way home and insisted he drive me and he finally did.
Once home, I called AAA customer service and reported my troubles. On Monday, March 29, Rick * AAA district manager for Washington state called me and I informed him what happened. He called later and said he went to the shop and that he thinks the shop is good and recommends it. I said that local Better Business Bureau never heard of them and also the tow truck company they sent me is not accredited. Rick ** talked like he did not care and said this shop mostly fixes taxis so they are not a commercial shop so that was why no one knows of them and that he does background checks on tow truck drivers and they are a good company. He also then argued with me defending the tow truck driver saying any radiator problem was not their fault because they just ruined my fender is all. He then said for me to find a mechanic to prove that when my front end bottomed out and banged down and bounced up off the ground could be specific cause of radiator damage.
I called AAA customer support to report how this local district manager was treating me and they did not care saying he is assigned to my case and to work things out with him. Rick ** also stated that it is not the tow truck company's fault I have no transportation currently and that the only reason he thinks I picked Firestone was because they were open on a Sunday. I said yes, that is the reason and that now since my car is 15 miles away out of my bus lines, I need to take my day off to go back and get it. He said that was not their problem and that he will only credit me for one tow. I told him even when they fix the fender damage, I still need my car towed to a shop to fix the original work and that this fender work is adding days to my not having transportation to get to work. He said they could help tow me to another shop at that time but that would be my one credit.
This makes no sense; they tow me and create twice as much damage and then take me someplace so far out of my way and now this Rick ** will not even help with crediting my AAA account for two tows? It is now Tuesday and the day is half over. The auto shop they took me to still has not started work on my car. This is now day three. Tomorrow if done, will be day four without transportation. This does not even count having work done that I originally was going to have done on Sunday.
So if it is not able to get way out to that shop until tomorrow night if they finish, I still have to have my car worked on for original damage which means not getting started on that to Thursday and not even getting car back until soonest on Friday. Again, the AAA district manger did not care and basically told me he thinks the original damage is not worth fixing based on the year of my car. It is a 1990 Ford Thunderbird. This has been the worst experience and both AAA company and A U.S. Towing have treated me poorly.
Reviewed March 22, 2010
I had a flat tire on my RV. I had Premier RV roadside assistance. The flat was an inside rear tire. I called AAA. I was told sorry but we do not change inside flat tires on RVs. I don't know about anyone else but this is what I wanted roadside assistance for. I had to find a local tire guy by myself to get my spare put on. I just want to say if you have an RV AAA is not the way to go. Needless to say, I canceled my coverage because it is useless. Hopefully, this will save somebody a lot of aggravation.
Reviewed March 20, 2010
AAA Emergency Road Service sold me battery with a 3-year, 100% free replacement warranty at roughly double the price of the batteries with comparable warranties. When the battery failed 18 months after installation the club's official response was that the battery warranty was invalidated because the car was predominantly driven locally. I bought a second-rate battery, possibly defective, and was deceived on the terms of the warranty. Now, I have to buy a replacement.
Reviewed March 16, 2010
My car broke down late Saturday night, and I was left alone in a parking garage that was closing. After at least 5 calls and 3 hours later, someone eventually came. I have never been treated so poorly from AAA in the 17 years I have been a member! I never should have been left alone, never mind waiting for someone to come get me for that long.
I am so completely unsatisfied that I want a full refund of my yearly payment! I need to be compensated for the poor customer service I received. It is not OK to leave someone stranded for hours, not call them back, and not listen to a word that was told! I should have been taken care of on the first phone call within a timely manner, usually 45 minutes. I am disgusted!
Reviewed March 16, 2010
My car broke on FDR Drive, Manhattan. AAA said they do not have access to this road but will reimburse. I called tow truck by police and had car towed away to a location they specified. They charged $250. Another AAA agent said they were not going to reimburse it.
We asked AAA to tow the car from that location to repair shop. The tow truck didn't show up in 2 hours (even though they promised it will), and we had to pay another $150 for storing the car. Next day, I waited for them for 4 hours (the agent on the phone kept promising that they will show up within an hour). I gave up and used another service.
I incurred $400 and over 8 hours of waiting; I lost a work day (another $200). The worst thing is that they promised that they will show at the specific time, within 1 hour; and time went by and they didn't show up. If you call them, they will say it's going to be in the next hour. The service did show up, 4 hours later on the 1st day and 5 hours later on the second day, when we no longer were waiting for it.
Reviewed March 7, 2010
I called for roadside assistance, having been a gold card member for over 5 years. I had only used the service 5 years earlier. Three customer service agents later, I still could not get them to get a tow truck out, because they wanted to first go through a bureaucratic procedure to put my husband on the membership. I was at home with the card, and with our 3-year old child. I asked them to first get the assistance out and then to put my husband on the membership, but they refused again and again. These were the most inflexible insensitive customer service agents I have dealt with. By the end, I was yelling at the supervisor on the phone and she still would not get the tow truck out.
Reviewed Feb. 1, 2010
Being an AAA member for several years, I finally had the opportunity to call them because my daughter had locked her keys in her car (purse and cell phone included). It was a Saturday night at 6 P.M. She gave them all of the information and AAA called back and said a company would be there within 2 hours. An hour and a half later, AAA called back and said that the original company that was responding cannot come now and that they (AAA) had tried everyone on their list. We were originally told they tried 11 companies and when asked for the names of those companies later, they only had 7, so they lied. There was nobody that could help her.
So now, my daughter is in a parking lot, all by herself, 30 degrees outside and no one to help her. She called me crying and told me what they had said. I contacted AAA myself and was told that she was correct - they had nobody that could help her but she could find someone on her own and they would "possibly" reimburse her for up to $50.00. I had to get in my car and drive the 100 miles to where she was (at college) to open her car with my spare key.
So much for resting assured that AAA would be there for my family if the need arises. And I can't believe they would leave a young female who was alone in a parking lot stranded! Unresolved. It cost me a tank of gas and 2 hours of my time as well as emotional distress for the several hours knowing my daughter was alone in a dark parking lot.
Reviewed Jan. 25, 2010
Two years ago, I had new battery put in. Two weeks ago, I had service for the battery that was off. The man tested the battery, fixed it and said that it was an old battery that was put in by Gullotta Enterprises that worked for AAA. I cannot find the receipt, but they will not give me a new one as they say it is 4 years old. I called but no satisfaction. This is fraud. I am 89 years old. Please help me. I have an old battery and paid for a new one. It is I that is so upset.
Reviewed Jan. 21, 2010
I called in a claim from a frozen pipe in my residence on a Sunday morning. I did not receive a response until Monday after 5 pm and that was only because I called two additional times. Once I received the response, AAA sent out a construction contractor. They came at 6 pm and asked me to sign a contract then and there. I refused explaining that I am still waiting to hear from AAA what they are going to cover but I will be available the next morning. I heard nothing from AAA. I called AAA again and spoke with the claims "person", Silvia. She told me that they were reviewing the account. I explained that everything I own is in water, and if we can at least start the dry out process. She denied this and said they needed to investigate.
I started my own process and began calling water restoration companies to get bids, I called A&M Construction and requested their bid. They were the ones that AAA sent out. A&M said that AAA said they cannot send me a bid so I told them that they needn't bother. I will not hire a company that isn't working for me. AAA called me back within 2 hours of that conversation and told me that they were refusing the claim because the house was not heated properly so therefore the pipes froze! The pipes froze because it was a record 3 degrees. Many people suffered frozen pipes! They have nothing to stand on at this point and I have had to hire an attorney and report them to the Insurance Commissioner.
Reviewed Jan. 11, 2010
Sunday, Jan. 10, 2010, we called AAA for assistance with a flat. We called from home at approximately 8:30PM, spoke to Ralph who assured us someone would get to us in about 45 minutes. 5 minutes later, we received an automated call telling us that someone was on their way and would reach us in about 30 to 40 minutes. At 10:45, we had heard nothing from AAA so we called and spoke to Rosa, who told us that our request for assistance had been cancelled via voicemail. They record all their calls, so we told her we wanted to hear the recording cancelling our assistance and she told us we would have to either call the next day or write a letter making this request.
We asked to speak to a supervisor after Rosa refused to give us the office she was talking to us from or any other ID that would further identify her. We were transferred to supervisor Cory, who played the recording of the cancellation. On the recording, there was a voice of a "woman" who claimed to be us and was cancelling the assist. AAA just took her word for it and cancelled it without even calling us to make sure this was so. If an AAA customer is out on the road, asks for assistance and then has their assist cancelled by an unscrupulous subcontractor's girlfriend or wife claiming to be the customer and the AAA customer ends up in harm's way. AAA could be looking at a nice lawsuit.
Anyways, after speaking to supervisor Cory, which assured us he would be calling us back with a confirmation of our assist call to him. Needless to say, supervisor Cory never called us back! We then called back AAA and were told that someone would be at our home no later than 11:15. At about 11:30, the "South Dade Tow" or something to that effect arrived. Believe it or not, he couldn't change the tire because he said that he did not have the right tools even though we specified the assist was for a flat. He told us that AAA was the only one that had the type of power tool that could remove the tire (we have a regular American car folks). So he just filled the tire with air and hoped it would make it to the morning so that we'd be able to take it into Goodyear and have it serviced.
We are cancelling our memberships to AAA! They are good for absolutely nothing! The guy from South Dade Tow told us that after 9PM, AAA subcontracts and very little can be done about anything. This info is for all of you out there who think they will be receiving any assistance from AAA. Read this and reconsider! This was just a simple flat. Imagine if it had been something more serious and under other circumstances. Google AAA for complaints, there are many!
Reviewed Jan. 8, 2010
I am sitting next to an elderly couple at Panera restaurant at 11:30 am, overhearing their phone conversation. They have a flat tire, and AAA told them they can't get anyone to them until 11pm tonight. The woman said, "We are 80 years old. We can't change it ourselves, and we can't sit here for 12 hours. The restaurant will close. Isn't there a tow truck or someone that can just put air in the tire?"
Apparently, there is a tow truck 5 miles away, but they are just too busy. So the couple is just going to have to sit and wait. Unbelievable! I will not be renewing my AAA membership. That's for sure.
Reviewed Jan. 8, 2010
After 2 years as AAA members, my husband has only used it twice for that roadside assistance; once for a lockout and once for gas. No complaints with either of those. But now, we have moved from Maine to Illinois and am trying to access online retail discounts. The website keeps telling me to log in. I am logged in, but the website keeps sending me in circles. I called customer service, got transferred 3 times in 15 minutes and kept having to explain my situation. Then I was told that since my membership expires in a month, I need to renew in order to switch AAA area to Illinois. Why would I want to renew when I have over a full month left? I want to use it for the month I have remaining to see if it's worth the money to keep.
So then the guy I was speaking to (third person) said he'd have to transfer me to someone else to get it straightened out. I told him to forget it and it wasn't worth all the trouble. I will not be renewing my membership again. Their customer service and website leave much to be desired. Their website only lists phone numbers for contact, no email access and since I do not want to speak to them yet again, I am posting my complaint here!
Reviewed Jan. 5, 2010
I have been a AAA member since 2001 and my son is an associate member. Last month, he was on his way to pick up his fiancee, Stacey, at her job in Yorktown when his car stopped running. My year-old granddaughter was on a car seat in the back seat. He made several calls to AAA, who declined to pick him up because of the baby! What is the point of having AAA? We ended up having to have Stacey get a ride from Yorktown to Bronxville, and I had to drive down to Yorktown from Beacon. This makes no sense to me. Can you help me understand this nonsense?
Reviewed Dec. 26, 2009
I was doing some holiday shopping at CambridgeSide Galleria Mall in Cambridge, MA on Tuesday 12/22/09. When I came out of the store at about 8pm, I discovered my right rear tire was flat and I called AAA. AAA called me back from a RI 401# several times and told me that a driver would be out to help me in 45 minutes, 8:45pm. They said the driver was towing another vehicle to nearby Malden and then would be out to me. At almost the 45-minute point, they called me back to say it would be another 30 minutes. Finally, a gentleman showed up and I had since been forced to move my car onto a side street by a police officer. Both the officer and I looked at my car from the rear, as we looked at the flat tire. I was concerned about moving the vehicle as I did not want to bend the tire rim. The officer followed up with me a little later to make sure someone from AAA was coming to help me. Note that the officer and I viewed the rear of my car several times.
Finally, about 9:15pm, a rather pleasant but quick talking gentleman arrived in an older style tow truck. He seemed harried and while I was at first happy to see him arrive, he quickly made me nervous. He asked why a gentleman's name was on my account and asked who that was. Well, my husband, my son and myself are all on this AAA account. Being in the dark with a strange man asking me these questions made me nervous. (He spoke rather in a slang tone and he was ** although that had nothing to do with my fear; it was the nosy questions that bothered me most). He immediately said that since I had AAA Plus, I could get my car towed home (45 minutes away) for free. He did not want to make the effort to fix my tire.
Finally, I made it clear that I wanted my spare put on. I took everything out from the back of my car so he could get the spare out. Then he asked for my book as he did not know how to change a tire on a Jeep Grand Cherokee! Then he told me the tools he needed were under my back seat and that I had to put everything in the rear again so he could get to it, all the while he is suggesting I take the tow home because I won't be able to travel normally on the spare tire anyway. But before finding the tools under my back seat, he told me to back out of the space I'm in and position the car in the middle of the parking lot because he was going to use the tow truck to lift my car as a jack. He did this, and I heard some noises, then he put the car back down and started again about me getting towed. Finally, I agreed to the towing to get rid of him, as he was unprofessional and frightened me.
I called back AAA in tears and asked them to get someone out ASAP as by this time, I was cold and very frightened. I offered to just take the tow, and they said they could send the guy back to change the tire this time, and I refused to have the same guy back. So they sent another guy as they realized I really wanted to drive myself home. Finally, about 10:30pm, another tow truck pulls up with a friendly professional man, perhaps in his 30's. He had me sit in his heated truck (unlike the other tow truck driver who had me sit in my own car the whole time) and was caring and professional. This gentleman had my new spare on my car within 10 minutes. I asked about the special tools under my seat and he said AAA has their own tools and they do not need any tools to change a tire. He also told me my spare tire was just fine (the other guy said it was out of air, another lie to get me to take a tow home) and that while I need to be careful and make sure I get my tire repaired and replaced, that the tire was just fine like the others on my car. My experience with the second gentleman was excellent.
Here is a summary of my scary experience and the lies which tow truck driver 1 used:1) He said my spare was no good
2) He said he did not have the special tools needed to take my tire off
3) He had to read a book on one of the most popular vehicles on the road?
4) He frightened me as I was alone with him in the dark and his questions were unprofessional.
5) He lied to me and AAA. He told the AAA office that I wanted a tow home! He said that I had electronics that I had bought and didn't feel comfortable with someone working on the vehicle, or something like that. A total all around lie. When I spoke to the ladies at AAA, two of the times they mentioned that he told them I wanted the tow home and not to have the spare put on.
6) The other tow truck driver who finally helped me told me the guy is very impatient. In fact, as I was waiting in the second driver's truck, I could hear the first driver complaining about lug nuts on a Volvo. In my opinion, the guy was just lazy and not qualified to be a AAA tow truck driver.
6) Lastly, the first driver broke my right rear lens when he lifted the car up with the truck. This is the noise I heard and that is probably why he put the car back down and gave me the runaround again about having it towed.
I am still very upset about this experience with AAA. In decades, I never had a bad experience with a AAA call. Now, I am stuck replacing the entire lens, which I have yet to cost out but it will be expensive. It took a total of 3+ hours for me to get back on the road that evening; two of those eaten up by an incompetent tow truck driver. I am left with emotional feelings about my experience and stuck with a broken rear light. I am an unemployed student with a disabled husband and I don't need the extra stress and headaches created by tow truck driver #1.
Reviewed Dec. 17, 2009
After telling 3 to 4 operators my hi-way troubles and getting transferred to various regional office, all at the expense of my prepay cellphone with poor Verizon service, on two occasions in the last year, the American automobile club has either said they could not locate where I was, after giving several operators the info. Then they took the wrecker 3 hours to come to my aid. The driver said that he had only gotten the call minutes earlier and proved it by showing me his phone log on his cell phone. The triple A operators waited for a number of hours before calling a wrecker! Then today after my GF was rear-ended on the highway by an untrained Hoosier driver, it wiped out my car completely. And the operators transferred my call 3 times and then said my number and I could not be found on her computer! So no wrecker! I had to pay a wrecker then take my GF to the emergency room.
Reviewed Dec. 3, 2009
Reviewed Nov. 12, 2009
Reviewed Oct. 30, 2009
Reviewed Oct. 23, 2009
Reviewed Oct. 13, 2009
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2009
I have a Premier membership with AAA and my car broke down, so I called AAA. That's why I bought the damn service. And the operator was the rudest lady I had ever spoken to. Her name was Judy. She asked normal questions and when she asked where my car was, "it's in a parking lot in a plaza on Blah street. She accused me of stealing my own ** car. So after I yelled at her, she got a tow truck to come down. I don't know what she told them but when he finally made it down to where I was, he refused to tow my car because in the plaza is a mechanic shop or tire shop and he said I owed him money and he couldn't tow the car because the owner of the shop which isn't near my ** car is not there. ** AAA. I hate them. I want my money back asap.
Reviewed Sept. 23, 2009
Reviewed Sept. 11, 2009
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2009
I am not able to understand what the club does? I took membership a few months back. I thought I will save money on travel. I went to Chicago (Michigan Ave.) branch to inquire about Disney Vacation package. The lady had no idea if they even sell Disney Packages. She referred me to her boss. The boss said, I cannot tell you the price right now, I will email you the details. In about 72 hours of this conversation, I received a quote from her. It was a copy-paste of the quote which I can get from Disneyworld.com Trust me, it was so frustrating.
Fine, I decided to buy the vacation directly from Disney and not even deal with AAA. But then, just now, I went to AAA office inquiring if they have any booklets or maps of Disney area. The lady spent 2 seconds and just handed me a Florida tour book and Florida State map. I came out of the office frustrated. Then, I realized that she did not even think of giving me Orlando map. I went back in and asked if they have Orlando map too. She says, well, you should have asked all that you wanted in a single transaction. She handed me Orlando map with “not a very friendly” face. Well, I asked her information about Disney area. Shouldn’t she be the one to decide that I need an Orlando map?
Reviewed Aug. 23, 2009
I waited over 2.5 hours for an AAA tow to arrive and finally had to call and get my own tow at my own cost. AAA sent a tow truck that was 25 miles away and never did show up. In spite of repeated calls to AAA telling them we were still stuck and no tow. Finally, I had to get my own tow truck from 5 minutes away and had my vehicle towed to the repair shop in less than 30 minutes! Of course, I had to pay for this. What is the point of giving AAA money if you get zero service? Consequences: $65 out of my own pocket, waited from 3:45 till 6:30 for AAA tow. I got towed by one I called in 30 minutes! Much upset and time consumed, entire evening on this!
Reviewed Aug. 2, 2009
I called for emergency tow for my husband who broke down on Rt. 46W on the way to our new business (deli) at 6:30 am, Saturday, 8/1. I called them at 7am (I got my husband a gift membership, AAA Plus; paid extra for the "Plus"(!) for X'mas a few years back and renew it for him every year, used it once; this would be the second time). They told me it would be less than 1 hour wait. My husband needed to wait with the car, I could not. Well, it took them over 4 hours to pick him up and, therefore, he could not open the deli until 12 noon! I tried to call them to find out what the delay was and why my husband was stuck on the highway for so long and the person who supposedly was in charge had a horrible speech impediment that I could not even understand what he was saying.
I literally started crying on the phone! I was so worried about my husband being stuck on the highway in the blazing sun. We were told a computer problem, flooding (the sun was out!), they're extremely busy, they couldn't find our reference number, they sent the wrong tow truck. Then, he had to sign a damage waiver before they would flat bed the car and he was not even given a copy. Just a nightmare! They kept telling him 20 minutes on the phone every time he called to find out why they hadn't picked him up yet. Now I'm trying to email them to complain and I do not have Outlook Express so I can't even do that. I've had it with them!
Reviewed July 27, 2009
After having become a member of AAA, for its reputation for providing a sense of security when traveling, I made reservations for both hotel and car through your company for a vacation to California for my 13-year-old daughter and my self. The hotel fee of $478.12 was paid for about a month and a half in advance, so I believed that the fees for this portion of my vacation was taken care of. Unfortunately however, upon my arrival/check-in, the hotel placed a hold on an additional $610.00, which they stated was a holding fee.
I do not understand what a holding fee is, and had I been made aware of this fee, I would never had booked this hotel room. I had already paid for my reservation and believed there would be no problems. However, because of the holding fee that neither AAA (whom I booked through) nor the hotel informed me of, I had no money to do the vacation. My child and I were forced to wait in the hotel room until our flight left about four days later.
My basic question is who charges one for reservations and then turns around and holds up an additional few hundred dollars without even telling the consumer? I know that AAA is third party, but since I reserved though AAA, there should have been some provision made to make the consumer (me) aware that this holding fee was going to occur. Upon checking out, the clerk made the statement that at least I saved the money I didn't get to spend for when I got home.
On July 27, 2009 at about 10:30 am, I called AAA member services (reservations) and spoke with a representative named Becky. I do not feel this issue has been resolved as she made a point to let me know that If I would have called AAA, then I could have been done. The problem is that I did not find out that my account was being drafted and that my card would not work until it was too late to call on Friday and I could not reach AAA member services over the weekend (according to the recording). So I am calling Monday morning. She was not helpful, appeared defensive, and argued with me that in fact I was able to get hold of member services 24 hours a day even through the weekend.
This was the only trip my daughter and I get to take each year. This vacation was a nightmare, and after attempting to call AAA to get a solution or some type of reasoning in regards to why this would happen, I was treated rudely by the representative. I would sincerely appreciate some type of resolve to this dilemma.
Reviewed July 23, 2009
On 7/21/09, at about 5pm, my truck broke down on Atlanta's I-285 expressway. I coasted to a stop on the right shoulder. AAA would not tow it because I was not with it. Bad policy. My driver side door handle was 2 or 3 feet from the cars going by me at 70-80 mph. I was terrified, so I left my truck. As a result, I paid $115 out of my pocket for a tow when I could have been reimbursed by my company if I had used AAA. One wonders how AAA would react if someone were injured or killed because of their policy.
Reviewed July 9, 2009
Tire Pros is in your list for help but when I went there to have battery terminals ends replaced, I was told it's about $40.00 which is high. But when I went back, it was $90.00 for a $5 part that takes 10 minutes to do. What a ripoff! How can you have them on your list? I am very upset with AAA. I put an ad online so people will not use any of the people you have on your list for help. I will not renew my AAA after that - shame on you.
Reviewed July 6, 2009
On the afternoon of June 6, 2009, my car became disabled about 25 miles east of Birmingham, Alabama on Interstate 20. After numerous phone calls to AAA beginning at 5:30 p.m., a tow truck arrived at 9 p.m. I was, therefore, stranded for 3-1/2 hours beside a very busy interstate. During each call to AAA, I was assured that a tow truck was "on the way." When the tow truck driver arrived, he said that he had three other tows between 5:30 p.m. and when he finally arrived so he, by no means, was "on the way" to me. The following week I sent a letter to Robert Darbelnet, President/CEO of AAA. This letter was forwarded to AAA-Alabama with an assurance they would get in touch with me within a few days. I have heard nothing from them, in spite of an email I sent as a follow-up.
AAA Company Information
- Company Name:
- AAA
- Year Founded:
- 1902
- Website:
- roadside.aaa.com