When it comes to peace of mind on the road, having reliable roadside assistance is essential.
Whether you’re dealing with a flat tire, dead battery, or any other unexpected issue with your vehicle, knowing that help is just a phone call away can make all the difference.
Two popular options for roadside assistance in the United States are Tesla Roadside Assistance and the American Automobile Association (AAA).
In this article, we’ll compare these two services to help you determine which one might be better suited to your needs.
Since Tesla roadside assistance is free up to the warranty period, It is better to use that until the warranty lapses. After the warranty period, I recommend AAA roadside assistance unless you only own Teslas. AAA assists with all types of vehicles and it is logical that you get one service for all your cars.
| Tesla Roadside Assistance | AAA Roadside Assistance | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Comes with Tesla Warranty | Subscription Based |
| Cost | Free | $65 to $125 per year |
| Towing Service | Tow up to 500 miles | Tow up to 200 miles depending on subscription. |
| Lockout Service | Yes | Yes |
| Multiple Services at Once | Charges Extra | Same charge |
| Time to Arrive Help | Takes an hour to 24 hours | Typically within a couple of hours. |
Tesla Roadside Assistance
Tesla Roadside Assistance is a service provided by Tesla, Inc. exclusively for Tesla owners. It’s designed to offer Tesla owners quick and specialized assistance in case of vehicle breakdowns or emergencies.
Here’s what you need to know about Tesla Roadside Assistance:
Services Covered
The service covers common issues such as flat tires, dead batteries, and other mechanical problems, but it also includes specialized services like remote diagnostics and software updates.
These are the guaranteed services-
- Unlocking the Tesla in a lockout scenario
- Flat tire replacement service
- Towing to a nearby service station.
Tesla-Owned Tow Providers: Tesla typically contracts with tow providers who are familiar with Tesla vehicles, ensuring that your car is handled by professionals who know how to transport it safely.
However, Tesla won’t tow the car more than 500 miles. So, if you are out of the coverage, call 911 instead of Tesla.
There are some instances when the Tesla roadside assistance service might not assist you. Those are-
- Accidental damage
- Negligent influenced damage
- Transporting the vehicle after servicing
Availability & Exclusivity
This service is available only to Tesla owners, which means it’s tailored specifically to Tesla vehicles.
24/7 Availability: Tesla Roadside Assistance operates 24/7, ensuring that help is available whenever you need it, day or night.
Tesla Mobile Service: In some cases, Tesla may send a mobile service technician to your location to diagnose and address minor issues right on the spot.
Pros of Tesla Roadside Assistance
Tesla-Specific Expertise: The service is designed exclusively for Tesla vehicles, so the technicians are well-trained in handling Tesla-specific problems.
Software Updates: Tesla can send over-the-air software updates to address certain issues without the need for a physical tow.
Quick Response: Tesla is known for its quick response times, and the availability of mobile service technicians can be a game-changer for minor issues.
AAA (American Automobile Association)
AAA is a well-established auto club that offers a range of services, including roadside assistance, to its members. Here’s what you need to know about AAA:
Membership-Based:
AAA operates on a membership model, and members pay an annual fee to access its services, including roadside assistance.
There are currently three tiers of AAA plans for Tesla cars-
- AAA Classic or Basic (costs $64.99/year)
- AAA Plus (costs $99.99/year)
- AAA Premier (costs $64.99/year)
Additional Perks
AAA covers a wide range of vehicles, not just Teslas, making it a versatile option for households with multiple car brands.
AAA has a vast network of service providers across the country, so you’re likely to find assistance almost anywhere fast.
AAA members enjoy other perks, such as discounts on travel and insurance services.
Pros of AAA
- Versatility: AAA covers a broad spectrum of vehicles, so it’s suitable for households with multiple car brands.
- Extensive Network: With a vast network of service providers, AAA can come to your rescue in remote areas.
- Additional Benefits: AAA membership offers a range of benefits beyond roadside assistance, making it a more comprehensive package for some users.
Which Is Better for You?
The choice between Tesla Roadside Assistance and AAA ultimately depends on your specific needs and circumstances:
- If you own a Tesla: Tesla Roadside Assistance is the preferred choice due to its specialized expertise and the convenience of remote diagnostics and software updates.
- If you have multiple vehicle brands: AAA’s versatility and extensive network may make it a more practical choice for households with different car brands.
- Consider other AAA benefits: If you’re looking for a more comprehensive package that includes travel and insurance discounts, AAA might be the better option.
- Response Time: It’s also worth considering the average response times in your area for both services, as quick assistance can be crucial in emergencies.
In conclusion, both Tesla Roadside Assistance and AAA have their strengths and can be valuable assets for drivers.
Assess your specific needs, consider the type of vehicles you own, and weigh the additional benefits offered by AAA to determine which service aligns best with your requirements.
Regardless of your choice, having reliable roadside assistance can provide peace of mind and help you stay safe on the road.