The AAA has offered some simple steps to keep drivers safe before hitting the road this spring.

In collaboration with leading industry organizations including NAPA, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and the Auto Care Association, the AAA is celebrating April’s National Car Care Month and emphasizing the importance of preventive vehicle maintenance as drivers gear up for spring travel.

“Car Care Month is a reminder that simple, proactive maintenance can drastically reduce the chance of a breakdown,” said Bryan Sander, AAA Vice President of AAA Automotive.

In 2025, AAA responded to more than 30 million roadside events most commonly tows, battery issues, and flat tires. It said many could have been avoided with routine inspections and seasonal maintenance.

Before hitting the road the AAA is advising drivers to pay attention to:

  • Battery and charging system: Have the battery and charging system tested -especially if the battery is over three years old.
  • Wipers & washer fluid: Replace streaking wiper blades and fill the washer reservoir with a bug and debris removing solution.
  • Coolant: Check coolant when the engine is cold. Add a 50/50 coolant mix if low. Inspect belts, hoses, and clamps for wear.
  • Tires: Inspect tread depth, examine wear patterns, and check tire pressure when the tires are cold. Tires with less than 4/32” tread provide less traction on wet roads. Remember to check the spare tire as well.
  • Brakes: Have brakes inspected per manufacturer guidance or if you notice warning lights, low fluid indicator, pulsation, pulling, grinding, or other noise when braking.
  • Lights: Check all bulbs and clean cloudy lenses. Weathered headlights can be restored professionally or with DIY kits.
  • Oil: Change oil and filter at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals using the correct oil.
  • Engine & Performance: Replace the air filter as recommended. Address “check engine” lights and fix issues like hard starts, rough idling, stalling, or low power.
  • Transmission Fluid: Confirm fluid is full; top off if needed. Some newer vehicles have sealed systems requiring service only