AAA Restarts an Interrupted Road Trip

When Pete M., of Rockville Centre, New York, needed a new alternator, AAA had him back on the road so quickly that he barely missed any of the football game he was listening to.

While driving cross-country from east to west in January 2025, I departed Lenexa, Kansas, trying for Vail, Colorado.

I was listening to the NFL playoffs when the dash lights blinked and Sirius radio cut out near Colby, Kansas. I drove off I-70 to a Walmart parking lot to assess the trouble.

I called AAA, and less than 30 minutes later, a young man with a AAA-authorized flatbed loaded my truck, and together we researched auto parts stores for a new Ford Expedition alternator. Luckily, there was one at a nearby auto parts store. Then, we’re off to a AAA Approved Auto facility about 50 miles in the direction I was headed. On the way, I learned that the flatbed driver is an apprentice mechanic and a part-time army reservist.

The AAA shop owner shows up, checks on the repairs, and fortunately, the alternator is easy to access and replace. I was back on the road in less than an hour, and I didn’t miss any playoff football either. It was great service and done as a courtesy, because I am a retired combat veteran. I reached Vail before sunset.”

AAA Roadside Assistance is available all day, every day.

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