Department: Your Roads
What’s in a (Car) Name?
July 01, 2017. Nick Tavares
Automobile brand names have some funky histories, and many borrow from other languages. Check out the roots of these company titles and drop some linguistic trivia on your next road trip. Volvo This luxury brand opted for a Latin name, one that perfectly describes a car’s purpose. Rooted in the verb volvere, Volvo translates to…
4 Car Repairs to Make Before It’s Too Late
July 01, 2017. Roberto Cruz
Paying for car repairs is about as much fun as a trip to the dentist. And, like the dentist, some people will go to great lengths to avoid a trip to the shop. But drivers who skip or delay important repairs expose their vehicles to dangerous situations and costlier fixes down the road, AAA’s Car…
Test Drive: 2017 Volkswagen Passat
June 01, 2017. AAA Staff
In a crowded midsize sedan market, the Volkswagen Passat is a standout for its German engineering at an affordable price point. Starting at just $22,440, the sedan – built in Chattanooga, Tenn. – is loaded with advanced technology, including many driver assistance systems that are often found in more expensive models. And its base engine is fun…
Rob Corddry’s 1975 Ford Pinto
June 01, 2017. AAA Staff
Massachusetts-born Rob Corddry is an actor, comedian and writer who has appeared in hit films such as “Hot Tub Time Machine,” “Warm Bodies” and “Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay.” A longtime correspondent on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” Corddry also created and starred in the Emmy Award-winning comedy series “Childrens Hospital” on…
Don’t Break the Bank on Unexpected Car Repairs
June 01, 2017. Roberto Cruz
Unless you’re rich Uncle Pennybags, spending $600 on car repairs is a tough pill to swallow. Unfortunately, that’s the going rate for the average car repair bill today, according to new AAA research. What’s more, an estimated 30 percent of Americans are unable to pay the average car repair bill without going into debt, the…
Tips on How to Use a Roundabout
June 01, 2017. Roberto Cruz
Some drivers hate roundabouts. But a circular intersection benefits drivers in many ways. It reduces traffic congestion and lessens the types of crashes that kill or injure people by about 80 percent, according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. Of course, all that goes out the window if you don’t know…
Test Drive: 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring
May 01, 2017. AAA Staff
With a starting price of just $21,945, the 2017 Mazda6 is one of the least expensive midsize sedans on the market, yet is hands-down one of the most fun to drive. For 2017, the Mazda6 now has its vehicle dynamics control system, G-Vectoring Control, as standard equipment, as well as numerous sound-absorbing materials for a…
Howie Mandel’s 1969 Chevy Bel Air
May 01, 2017. Roberto Cruz
Canadian-born Howie Mandel is an actor, comedian and television personality known for hosting the popular game show “Deal or No Deal.” After beginning his career in stand up, Mandel starred in the Emmy Award-winning medical drama “St. Elsewhere” before creating the hit animated series “Bobby’s World.” Watch him on the new season of “America’s Got…
Keep an Eye on These 3 Car Parts As Your Car Ages
May 01, 2017. Roberto Cruz
Even the most reliable cars depreciate over time. Here are three parts to keep an eye on as your car ages. Water Pump This part circulates coolant throughout the engine to prevent overheating. It’s a moving part, so it’s prone to wear and tear; in this case, leaky seals, bad bearings and issues with the…
Car-Inspired Gifts Mom Will Love
May 01, 2017. AAA Staff
Another Mother’s Day is upon us and figuring out what to get mom year after year can be a daunting task. Why not get her something creative, beautiful and offbeat inspired by the automotive world? Harveys Seat Belt Bags These purses and bags made from cool-colored seat belts caught my eye many years ago. I…