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(NUI) - Summer is a popular time for travel. Better weather and longer days afford more opportunities to get out and about. But travel doesn't have to mean flying to another country.
For many, a summer vacation may simply be traveling to visit friends and relatives that they haven't seen for quite some time. And for that, many travelers choose the automobile. People just love to drive and take in the sights and sounds of the season.
No matter whether it is a trip up the street to enjoy a weekend cookout with some co-workers, or the whole family getting in the car to visit relatives in another state, your car will likely see more use during the summer months. However, with more use comes more wear and, of course, the possibility of something going wrong.
The best insurance against car problems is a preemptive safety inspection done by a qualified mechanic. It also can be one of the most trying things to worry about. After all, what does "qualified mechanic" really mean - and even if someone claims to be qualified, is he or she really knowledgeable?
That's where AAA, the nation's largest organization for motorists and travelers, can help. Recently, AAA expanded its Approved Auto Repair inspection program to all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the 10 Canadian provinces. What this means is that AAA members and the public now can easily identify more than 7,500 quality repair facilities across North America. Every one of those locations displays the AAA Approved Auto Repair or the Canadian Automobile Association Approved Auto Repair Service sign. Each also is regularly inspected and approved by AAA's staff of certified automotive technicians, and meets the association's strict criteria for quality workmanship and exceptional customer service.
AAA's program serves the public through the knowledge that every participating shop has met AAA's stringent requirements for customer satisfaction, trained technicians, and ethical business practices. AAA and Canadian Automobile Association members receive additional benefits from AAA Approved Auto Repair, including dispute resolution, free safety/maintenance inspections, and a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty on repairs, including parts and labor.
New car dealerships, franchised car repair shops and independently owned facilities all take part in AAA's Approved Auto Repair program. Facility names and locations can be found at www.aaa.com, or by contacting local AAA clubs.