What connotations come to mind with the words “car keys?” Bad thoughts, like frantically ransacking your house, bags and pockets in search of them? Good thoughts, like being handed them for the first time at a dealership or flicking your wrist and hearing the engine come alive?

Either way, these experiences are likely to soon be stowed-away memories of a different time: The truth is, the history of car keys as we know them is quickly coming to a close.

Just about every other aspect of automotive technology has drastically evolved over the past century, and the keys we use to open and start our cars are no different. But car key history is unique in that instead of simply improving the feature, current technology has rendered traditional car keys obsolete, sending them the way of the dodo, car ashtrays and crank windows.

That renders the age-old question: How did we get here? Let’s take a look back.

The History of Car Keys Begins

Car key history can be traced back to 1910, but these early versions didn’t start the engine or ignition. Instead, the first car keys controlled the ignition’s electrical circuit. Using the key, car owners could switch off the flow of electrical current, making it impossible to start the vehicle. Once the switch was on, the ignition could be activated, although drivers still had to then crank up the engine.

Soon after, keys that could lock and unlock both the electrical circuit and the ignition became more common.

Because it was still impossible to start the engine without a key, car theft was not a concern, and “locking” a car wasn’t a practice. In fact, most early automobiles were roofless and some were even door-less.

Mid-Century Car Keys

A major milestone in car key history occurred in 1949 when Chrysler unveiled the first car key that could start a vehicle’s engine all on its own. It was able to do so through the use of an ignition tumbler, or ignition lock cylinder.

In 1965, Ford became the first manufacturer to introduce double-sided keys that could be inserted into the tumbler either way. While seemingly elementary by today’s standards, these types of car keys remained the norm for decades.

This was also around the same the time the dual key, which could both start the car and unlock the doors, took hold. Prior to the 1960s, some vehicles still required two separate car keys.

Car Keys Meet Technology

Car key evolution was mostly dormant for the next quarter century but took some momentous leaps in the 1990s. It was this decade that saw the rise of the now ubiquitous key fob.

Remote keyless entry fobs allowed car owners to lock and unlock vehicle doors from afar by emitting a coded signal through radio waves to a receiver in the car. As technology developed, key fobs gained more functions, such as opening the trunk or sliding doors and starting the engine remotely.

(If you’re curious about the strange name, according to The Atlantic, “fob” may come from the word “fuppe,” which means “pocket” in the low German dialect.)

Car fobs are very expensive to replace. Make sure you’re protected with AAA’s Tire & Wheel Program, which covers lost keys and key fobs up to $5,000.

Car Keys Today

The traditional, mechanical car key is quickly becoming a thing of the past – if it’s not already a relic of automotive history. Almost all of today’s new vehicles have some version of a keyless entry and push-button start system. In fact, according to consumer auto research firm Edmunds, 91% of 2019 model-year vehicles had keyless ignitions. That’s up from 72% in 2014.

We’ve come a long way from having to carry one key for the engine and one key for the doors. But apparently one key is still one too many: Drivers can now store a digital car key on – where else – their phones.

Apple’s Wallet app includes a feature to add your car key. In order to do this, you need to have a compatible car as well as an iPhone or Apple Watch. Once installed, a user simply places their phone or watch next to the car’s door handle to unlock the vehicle. To start the car, they just place the phone or watch in the car’s key reader and press the start button. When an owner wants to share their key, they can simply send an iMessage to that user, which tells them how to add and use the car key.

Tesla owners can use the company’s smartphone app to do many of the same things. The app can track a driver’s smartphone from up to 30 feet away and automatically unlock the doors by the time they reach the car. But the electric automaker isn’t alone. About 31 brand marques, including BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Hyundai and Lincoln offer digital car keys, making the trend’s rise seem more assured and imminent.

What are your thoughts on car keys today? Do you like the idea of a digital key on your phone or would rather have a tangible key you can hold? Let us know in the comments below?

For more automotive history, visit AAA.com.

Raise your hand – or honk your horn – if you are the proud owner of a classic or collector car.

Classic cars are a huge source of pride for their owners. Showing them off in car clubs and shows, shining them up and, of course, taking them out on the road are all part of the fun. And you don’t have to own a classic car to love them. Auto enthusiasts can spend hours admiring the details and craftmanship of these vehicles.

We asked you to submit your best car photos and you delivered. Browse through our virtual car show in the slideshow below, and don’t forget to check our social media channels, where we will be sharing some of our favorites. Some photos may also be featured in an upcoming issue of Your AAA magazine.

3 Simple Tips for Better Car Photos

Classic and collector cars are a thing of beauty and your pictures should accurately reflect that. These simple car photography tips will help you make your car and photos shine.

Try Different Heights and Angles

Eye-level shots are actually the least flattering to cars. Try getting down low and shooting up at the car. You can achieve ground-level shots by placing your camera directly on the ground and using the LCD screen to compose your shot. If you don’t have an LCD screen, try lying flat on your stomach and taking shots that way. Once you have captured ground-level shots, move on to crouching or kneeling shots. From there, try to add some height by using a step ladder. If you want a completely original viewpoint, use a drone to capture the birds-eye view of your car.

While you are changing up your height, you should also vary your angle. I recommend doing a complete 360-degree walk around the car and stopping every foot or so, snapping a few shots of every height and angle.

Bring Out the Details

What makes classic and collector cars shine are all the thoughtful details. They are a work of art. Zoom in on the details of the car. On the outside you can capture the grill, wheels, hood ornaments, curves in the fender and hood, headlights, etc. Make sure to hop inside and capture the interior details as well. The steering wheel, upholstery and dials are the can’t-miss shots. You can get creative by placing something visually interesting in the side or rear-view mirrors.

Show Them in Their Element

The best car photos are those that show the car in its natural environment. Trying staging a shot on an open road. You can do this by finding a less-traveled road and having a spotter look for oncoming cars. Park the car and have someone hop in to pose as the driver.

Let AAA help you to protect your classic car with a specialty insurance policy. 

Check out past AAA Photo Sessions and get more photography tips.

Beth Mancuso is a professional landscape and travel photographer.

From the pilgrims landing in Plymouth to the signing of Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, the United States’ origin story is centered in the Northeast. The region, therefore, is innately historical and thus naturally filled with locations teeming with historical significance.

But the area’s historical pedigree goes far beyond the political realm. Some of the country’s most brilliant and creative minds, including inventors, artists and authors, lived and worked in the Northeast.

With such a storied past, there may be no better place to travel through if you’re on the lookout for historical sites than the Northeast. Here are just a few of the locations that should be on your list.

Old State House and Old South Meeting House

The entire city of Boston is one big historical site, so formulating a list of notable locations can be a task. But few buildings in the city hold as much historical significance as the Old State House. Throughout the 1770s, this building was home to a merchants’ exchange, the seat of colonial and later state government, and the highest court of the Massachusetts colony.

The Old State House is most famous, however, as being the site of the 1770 Boston Massacre. This event would go on to be known as the first bloodshed of the American Revolution. The building is now a museum and Boston National Historical Park.

Just down the street from the Old State House sits the Old South Meeting House. This historical site, the largest building in colonial Boston, served as a church as well as the most notable meeting place in Revolutionary Boston. It was here where Boston citizens gathered for protests against the British.

Old North Church

Few events in America’s existence hold as much historical significance as Paul Revere’s midnight ride, a journey that culminated in two lanterns being lit in the Old North Church’s steeple. The lanterns were a signal that the British were traveling to Lexington and Concord by sea and not by land.

The Old North Church still stands in the same spot on Salem Street, making it Boston’s oldest surviving church. The building remains an active place of worship but is also open for tours.

Plymouth Rock

In many ways, the history of America began when the pilgrims landed in Massachusetts, making Plymouth Rock one of the most significant historic sites in the Northeast –  and the country. Although there is no evidence that the particular rock was, in fact, the pilgrims’ steppingstone, several Mayflower passengers are said to claimed it so. In some ways, it’s a moot point, as Plymouth Rock serves more as a symbol than a marker.

The rock is part of Pilgrim Memorial State Park, which also includes the Mayflower II museum and attracts more than one million visitors each year.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

The newest, and most somber, location on this list is lower Manhattan’s 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Through artifacts, personal stories, and interactive experiences encompassing 110,000 square feet of space, the museum gives visitors an unparalleled look at the events of both the attacks of 9/11 and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, all at the site where the Twin Towers once stood.

Outside, the memorial remembers the 2,977 people killed on 9/11 and six in the 1993 bombing. All of their names are inscribed in bronze parapets surrounding the twin memorial pools, which feature the largest man-made waterfalls in North America.

The Susan B. Anthony Museum & House

Susan B. Anthony, mother of the country’s modern women’s rights movement, did much of her work in her red brick house in Rochester, N.Y. The home was the site of her famous arrest for voting in 1872, the National American Woman Suffrage Association headquarters, and where Anthony passed away in 1906.

The Susan B. Anthony Museum & House houses artifacts of her life and work, which included the pursuit of suffrage, abolition, and education and labor reform.

Sagamore Hill

No list of the country’s top historical sites is complete without a spot remembering presidents past. Located on the north shore of Long Island, Sagamore Hill was Theodore Roosevelt’s summer house. It’s most notable for being a site where Roosevelt hosted luminaries from around the world while serving as president in the early 1900s. The National Historic Site contains parts of Roosevelt’s extensive art collection, many personal items, as well as letters and other artifacts.

Mark Twain House & Harriet Beecher Stowe Center

The Northeast has more than its fair share of literature-themed historical sites. Sleepy Hollow and Walden Pond come to mind. But in Hartford, Conn., you get two for the price of one. Mark Twain, the famous Missourian, lived in the Connecticut city for several years, during which time he penned classics like “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court.” Amazingly, just around the corner lived Harriet Beach Stowe, author of arguably the most famous American novel, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

Both Twain’s and Stowe’s houses are now museums dedicated to their respective former owners, filled with galleries, books and artifacts.

Thomas Edison National Historical Park

The home and laboratory of the country’s most famed inventor, Thomas Edison, sits in our own backyard. Now a museum and National Historical Park, the complex is open to visitors. A visit to the site, located West Orange, N.J., just 30 minutes outside New York City, allows guests to stand in the same place where Edison devised inventions that would forever alter our lives.

The museum’s collection is estimated to include more than 300,000 items, making it the third-largest museum collection in the National Park Service. Some of these artifacts include electrical lighting equipment, phonographs, family photos and decorative art.

The Newport Mansions

Take a trip back in time to the extravagant gilded age with a trip to the mansions of Newport, R.I. These homes, built in the late 1800s, served as summer “cottages” to the wealthiest families in the country.

The grandest of them all is The Breakers, first owned by Cornelius Vanderbilt II. In 1893, he hired architect Richard Morris Hunt to design a villa. Hunt commissioned an international team of craftsmen and artisans to create the 70-room Italian Renaissance-style mansion. In 1972, the Preservation Society of Newport County purchased the home from the Vanderbilt heirs. Along with the other mansions, the Breakers now serves as a historical and architectural, allowing guests to see first-hand how well the other half lived a century ago.

Need a ride as you tour the historic sites in the Northeast? AAA members can save up to 20% on Hertz rentals. And up to four additional drivers (who are AAA members) can drive for free, so everyone can take in the scenery.

With so much to offer, planning day trips in New England can be overwhelming. Sometimes it’s best to leave the planning to a professional and take one of the many already-established New England tours. Whether you’re looking to explore by foot, bicycle, boat, bus, road or train, we’ve picked out some of the best tours in New England.

Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 crisis, please see official websites before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.

New England Tours by Bicycle

Urban Adventours
Boston

Urban Adventours offers professionally guided, all-inclusive tours of Boston and surrounding areas. Newcomers to Beantown should opt for the City View Tour, offering up-close and personal access to the capital city’s highlights, including Boston Common, Copley Square and many of the city’s historic neighborhoods. Baseball fanatics can enjoy the private sports-themed Funway to Fenway tour, while history buffs can ride the path of Paul Revere on the private Ride to Freedom tour. Family-friendly and night tours are also offered.

Cape Cod Rail Trail
Nickerson State Park, Brewster, Mass. (see website for free parking areas) 

Cape Cod has been a popular destination for New England day trips since the late 1800s. Back then, they would board trains to leave the busy city behind, traveling out along the peninsula to the respite offered by small towns, sandy beaches and wooded areas. Today, those railways have been transformed into a 22-mile network of paved bike paths connecting the towns of Dennis and Wellfleet, right in the elbow of the hook. Thanks to the Cape’s near-sea-level altitude, the terrain is mostly flat, making the paths perfect for a leisurely afternoon ride through forests, cranberry bogs and state parks.

Minuteman Commuter Bikeway
Runs through Bedford, Lexington, Arlington and Cambridge, Mass.

Also transformed from a former railway, the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway runs through areas that played host to the first moments of the American Revolution. The path offers an easy commuting option to a T station for locals, while offering visitors a look into the history of the four towns, as well as at the scenic landscapes common to the Boston suburbs.

Bike New England

Trails throughout the Northeast

Looking to peddle a little farther into the wilderness? Bike New England’s database includes hundreds of maps of officially established bike paths and more adventurous paths forged by other bikers throughout the greater New England area. Set out on one of the Connecticut Heritage Trails, tour the Rhode Island seashore or tackle the hills of the Massachusetts Berkshires.

Did you know that your AAA membership also includes roadside bicycle service? If your bicycle breaks down during an excursion or you get a flat tire, just call for assistance! Note that bicycle assistance is only available on established roads and streets, and not on all off-road bike paths.

New England Tours by Boat

Boston Duck Tours

Part tour bus, part boat and all fun, DUCKs are vehicles inspired by World War II amphibious landing vessels that offer tours of Boston that go off the beaten path and the paved road. The classic sightseeing tour, narrated by ConDUCKtors, hits many Boston attractions while on land, then changes the tour’s perspective when it nosedives into the water for a tour on the Charles River. Ask any Bostonian – taking a Duck Tour is one of the most New England things to do.

Argia Mystic Cruises
Mystic, Conn.

The Argia is a 81-foot schooner docked in the historic seafaring village of Mystic, Conn. Daily half-day cruises of the Mystic River and nearby Long Island Sound are offered during the warmer months, when the antique Main Street drawbridge opens to allow the ship’s tall sails to pass through. After being welcomed aboard by the caption, passengers can help hoist the sails or sit back and enjoy the charming scenery and picturesque lighthouses.

Codzilla
Boston

Boston Harbor Cruises offers a variety of boat tours, but perhaps the most unique is aboard the Codzilla. The boat’s exterior is painted to resemble a giant, neon and very angry shark, whose bared jaws plow through the harbor at 40 mpg. As the water coaster spins and swerves, passengers will get splashed and are encouraged to scream in delight or sing along to the hard-rock soundtrack. It’s not historic or peaceful, but it will sure get your blood pumping!

Finest Kind Cruises
Ogunquit, Maine

Finest Kind Cruises offers tours of the Ogunquit coastline in southern Maine that bring a sense of palpability to the spirit of Vacationland. A breakfast cruise navigates the newly lit, serene morning waters to a harbor seal hotspot, while a lighthouse cruise provides a coastal viewpoint of local homes and a lighthouse. Those itching for the classic Maine experience and photo-op should book the Lobstering Trip, staffed by real lobstermen harvesting real lobster traps.

Kayak Centre of Rhode Island
North Kingstown, R.I. 

For a New England tour via water that’s hands-on, interactive and great exercise, the Kayak Centre of Rhode Island offers a series of guided kayak tours featuring the Newport and Jamestown coasts, historic Wickford harbor, Ninigret Pond and, for those not frightened by the creepy crawly, a Rhode Island swamp.

New England Tours by Bus

Boston Old Town Trolley Tours

This company provides the typical city tourist hop-on, hop-off experience in the most Boston way possible: on a historic trolley. The route includes 19 stops selected for their historical and cultural relevance, where riders can hop off and explore the destination, then hop on and continue the journey at their convenience.

Boston Ghosts and Graveyard Tours

Designed for the very bravest travelers, this bus tour takes sightseers on a spooky-themed journey through Boston’s darkest historical moments. Stops are made at notable graveyards and famously haunted buildings, and a staff of wickedly-clad guides thrill travelers with tales of Boston’s most horrific residents, including the Boston Strangler.

New England Tours by Car

Newport Mansions and Seaside

In its heyday, the historic seaside town of Newport, R.I., was a popular summer respite for America’s elite. Many of their Gilded Age-era mansions remain today, preserved as museums with elaborate gardens and sweeping seaside views. Drive through Newport’s historic downtown area, and stop to tour a few of the elaborate mansions of Bellevue Avenue.

Vermont Covered Bridges

Covered bridges are quintessential New England landmarks, and one of the best New England day trips highlights some of the 104 covered bridges in Vermont. It includes a visit to the longest wooden bridge in the United States, which spans the Connecticut River connecting Vermont and New Hampshire.

Find maps and attractions, plus places to eat and stay during your New England day trip or road trip with the AAA mobile app.

New England Tours by Foot

Boston Freedom Trail

This 2 1/2-mile trail allows Boston sightseers to walk in the footsteps of America’s forefathers, emphasizing landmarks that played a significant role during the Revolutionary War period. The Freedom Trail Foundation offers daily tours centered on a variety of themes, from the more general Walk into History tour to the African-American Patriots and Revolutionary Women tours.

Newport Cliff Walk

The famous Newport, R.I., Cliff Walk offers self-guided passage along a public access path that winds through the stunning mansion grounds, over the rocky shoreline and along sandy beaches. The 3 1/2-mile trail covers a variety of terrains, and visitors should wear proper shoes and use caution; the walk is steep in some places and the rocks can get slippery.

New England Tours by Train

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

A journey on the Essex Steam Train departs from a remarkable 1892 train station in Essex, Conn. Once aboard and seated comfortably in the vintage coaches, travelers enjoy picturesque views as the steam locomotive winds through the nature-rich Connecticut River Valley. Upon arrival at Deep River Landing, passengers board a riverboat for a tour of area via water, highlighting historic sites such as Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House. After the boat ride, guests are brought back to Essex Station via train.

Cape Cod Central Railroad

Offering a unique approach to New England tours, the Cape Cod Central Railroad offers coastal excursion trips that take visitors on two-hour expeditions from Hyannis, Mass., through the area’s changing landscape, winding through marshes, cranberry bogs and sand dunes. The company also features a Rails and Ales Beer Tasting Train, offering New England brewery tours aboard the train. Samples from local craft breweries are paired with appetizers for diners to enjoy while enjoying the stunning views.

Conway Scenic Railroad
Conway, N.H.

Departing from North Conway Village’s 1874 train station, the Conway Scenic Railroad allows travelers to experience the New Hampshire countryside by rail. The Valley Train offers a classic, old-fashioned passenger car experience while the Notch Train takes riders through New Hampshire’s mountainous terrain. Each train has a dining car designed to provide a turn-of-the-century train dining experience.

What New England day trips are you planning this summer? Tell us in the comments!

Need a ride? Take advantage of exclusive AAA discounts and benefits when you rent from Hertz.

To learn more about tours or plan a trip, contact a AAA travel advisor.

This post was originally published in 2018 and has been updated.

Out in the streets or re-created in the studio, filmmakers have always tried to capture the magic of New York City on screen. Whether it’s in the shadows of a dark alley, the grandeur of a skyscraper or the nonstop energy of Times Square, if you’ve got a camera, the Big Apple easily provides the lights and action.

The NYC TV and Movie Tour from On Location Tours takes visitors on a journey through Manhattan that covers over 60 of the most famous filming sites in the city. For first-time visitors and cinema buffs alike, it’s an entertaining look at historic landmarks and neighborhoods through the familiar lens of movies and television.

On Location Tours NYC TV and Movie Tour

On Location Tours specializes in television and movie sightseeing tours in New York and Boston with themes like “Sex and the City” hotspots, “Sopranos” sites and Turner Classic Movies.

Sound like something you would like to do? AAA members save 15% on On Location Tours in New York City and Boston when booking in advance online.

I chose the NYC TV and Movie Tour because I felt like it was the most well-rounded option. The guide might have called me out for being the only person from the tri-state area on a bus packed with tourists from Utah all the way to Scotland, but the film-first perspective was a new way of seeing the city that I could appreciate. It was a really good time!

The 2.5-3-hour bus tour is a highlight reel of some of the top big and small screen moments captured throughout the city, plus a few extra surprises along the way. The perspective is unique in that Columbus Circle isn’t just a traffic circle but the place where the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man made his debut in “Ghostbusters,” and the Flatiron building is not only an architectural marvel but the Daily Bugle headquarters in “Spider-Man.”

For fans of shows like “Sex and the City,” “Friends,” “Seinfeld,” “How I Met Your Mother” and “Gossip Girl,” it’s an opportunity to see the stomping grounds of their favorite characters. You feel as if you are part of the shows as screens inside of the bus play scenes featuring the locations right outside the window.

Also starring…

All On Location Tours guides are actors, usually with backgrounds in comedy or improv – so the personalities are big and the commentary is quick, witty and never boring. As certified NYC tour guides, they not only provide facts about the filming locations, but can offer insight to some of the behind-the-scenes moviemaking magic as well.

Our guide Gary Mahmoud, an actor and comedian, would throw in mentions of his own cameos and roles throughout the tour. There was never a dull moment; even in traffic, he would keep the energy going with trivia questions and small prizes for those who got correct answers.

Top sights and stops

The trip started in Times Square, then up through Columbus Circle, past Central Park (the most filmed location in the world) and the swanky stores on Fifth Avenue. Some of the most iconic film sites included Trump Tower, aka Bruce Wayne/Batman’s office; the Plaza Hotel, famously remembered for its screen time in “Home Alone”; and Tiffany & Co., where Audrey Hepburn donned her black dress and pearls and ate breakfast.

After passing through the Flatiron District, we stopped to get out and take photos at the easily recognizable and movie-ready Washington Square Park. We continued on to Greenwich Village, Tribeca and the Meatpacking District, stopping along the way to check out the “Ghostbusters” firehouse and the building that inspired the “Friend’s” apartment.

There’s a good chance that you’ll get to see some real-life lights, camera, action on the tour, too. We happened to drive past actresses Ellie Kemper and Carol Kane as they were shooting a scene for the Netflix series “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.” Gary shared a long list of TV shows, movies and actors he’s spotted while guiding tours. Stay alert and you’ll never know what or who you might see!

The NYC TV and Movie Tour wraps up in midtown right outside of McGee’s Pub, said to be the inspiration for MacLaren’s in “How I Met Your Mother.” And right around the corner is the original Soup Nazi shop for all the “Seinfeld” fans.

The reviews are in!

On Locations Tours is a crowd pleaser. It’s got 4.5 out of 5 stars on Yelp, and I can attest to the fact that everyone on my tour (including me!) walked away with a smile on their face.

If you’re a TV and movie lover or are just looking for a fun way to spend a day out in the city, you’ll enjoy any of the tours offered by On Location Tours. Don’t forget your AAA discount!

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention– and going for a walk is certainly one of the simplest and most refreshing ways to do it.

Improved mood and a maintained weight are among the many excellent reasons to go for a stroll. Walking is not only great for those just beginning their fitness journey, but a moderately-paced scenic walk can make for an active family outing or romantic date.

By now you’re probably wondering: Well, where are some walking trails near me? Read on to find some of our favorite walks in the Northeast.

Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, please see official websites before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.

Connecticut

Branford Trolley Trail

Open to walking and mountain biking, this trail is 0.6 miles in length. The trail is made of concrete, crushed stone, gravel and footbridges that bring you through marsh habitats.

Air Line State Park Trail

This stone dust trail stretches from East Hampton to Putnum, following old rail beds. Walk, hike, bike or ride a horse to enjoy this secluded trail.

Find more Connecticut walking trails, here.

Massachusetts

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail

This 11.9-mile path travels through forested areas, featuring breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, rivers and wetlands. Trail-goers can also bring binoculars for bird-watching or cast a line in one of the ponds.

Assabet River Rail Trail

This 9.2-mile asphalt trail welcomes walking, biking, in-line skating and cross-country skiing. It is also wheelchair accessible. There are hopes to expand the trail to 12.5 miles in length.

For more Massachusetts walking and hiking trails, see here. 

New Hampshire

Derry Rail Trail

The asphalt trail is 3.6 miles long. Stroll through woodlands and wetlands as you follow this trail through southern New Hampshire.

Goffstown Rail Trail

This 5.5-mile walking trail is also wheelchair accessible. The trail’s surface includes dirt, grass, gravel and sand. Activities like mountain biking and cross-country skiing are also welcome.

Find more walking and hiking trails, here.

New Jersey

Henry Hudson Trail

There’s plenty to see on this 22-mile trail. The tree-lined path crosses wetlands, streams, fields and small towns. It’s divided into two sections, which currently aren’t linked, so some visitors may need to travel along an on-road route.

Ramapo Reservation Trails

The Ramapo Valley reservation is home to a a network of loop trails. The 7.2-mile Ramapo Reservation Loop Trail, 3.5-mile Vista Loop Trail and 4.1-mile Ramapo Ramble Trail are all great options for nature walks.

For more places to walk and hike in New Jersey, see here. 

New York

Albany County Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail

Following along the path of the former Delaware & Hudson Railroad, this trail offers a 9.8-mile stroll through woodlands. During the spring, look out for views of a rushing creek; fall is the perfect time to leaf peep. Along the way, visitors can access Veterans Memorial Park located in Delmar and Fireman’s Park in Slingerlands.

Allegheny River Valley Trail

This 5.6-mile, multiuse, asphalt rail trail is wheelchair accessible and welcomes walking, biking and in-line skating. Explore western New York as you stroll through Allegany and Cattaraugus county.

For more information on New York trails, see here. 

Rhode Island

Cliff Walk

Newport’s 3.5-mile Cliff Walk offers great ocean viewing. Breathe in the salty sea air as you follow path, spotting wildflowers, birds, historic Gilded Age mansions and more along the way.

East Bay Bike Path

On the shores of Narragansett Bay, this path (Rhode Island’s best-known rail trail) offers 14 miles of alternating landscapes, including stunning wilderness and urban enclaves. Along the way, visitors can wander off on spur trails, discovering parks and conservation areas.

Find more Rhode Island walking trails, here. 

With all the stress in our daily lives, walking trails near you can be a peaceful and heart healthy way to unwind and rejuvenate. Spend some quality time with your loved ones or hit the trail solo for some quiet reflection. Looking for a challenge? Hiking trails and bike paths will still give you those beautiful views and serene environments, with a little extra cardio!

Where are some of your favorite places to spend time outdoors? Let us know in the comments below!

Check out these accessible trails for explorers with disabilities. 

This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated. 

A clean earth is a happy earth. Celebrate our beautiful planet with this puzzle.

Thanks for playing! Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience.

Since our members are the root of everything we do, your feedback is important to us. Let us know if you run into any issues while playing, or share your ideas for future puzzles by emailing us. Good luck!

Do you know what’s under your hood? If your answer is the most recycled consumer product in the world, you’d be correct. Lead car batteries have the highest collection and recycling rate of any type of battery. According to Essential Energy Everyday, lead car batteries have a recycling rate of nearly 100%. Even better? With a circular economy, the lead in car batteries is infinitely recyclable, meaning it can be used over and over with no loss of performance.

Vehicles with internal combustion engines aren’t the only ones equipped with a lead battery: virtually every hybrid and fully electric vehicle requires a lead battery to power critical onboard functions. That’s a lot of lead!

Earth-Friendly

You can feel good about where your car battery goes when it reaches the end of its lifespan. More than 130 million lead batteries are recycled and kept from landfills every year, according to Essential Energy Everyday. And a new lead battery typically consists of 80% recycled material.

Ethical Partnerships

AAA takes great pride in its deep-rooted reputation for environmental protection. When you use AAA for car battery replacement, we do the work for you. No hidden fees or hoops to jump through: Responsible car battery recycling is automatically built into your service.

Using an Environmental Protection Agency-approved recycling center, we recycle every lead battery we replace. Our primary battery manufacturer, East Penn Manufacturing, is a private, family-owned company operating the largest single-site lead battery manufacturing facility in the world. Based in Pennsylvania, the EPA-permitted facility calls itself a model for the lead car battery recycling industry. It uses advanced technology to reduce lead emissions into the air, wastewater and stormwater.

The AAA Mobile Battery Service Program

AAA is dedicated to protecting our environment and ensuring great road trips for generations to come. A lead car battery usually lasts for three to six years, depending on a variety of factors. Factors like extreme heat or cold; harsh wear and tear; short, infrequent drives; and age all affect the lifespan of your battery. When the time comes to replace it, a AAA battery service technician comes to you – at work, at home, almost anywhere – to deliver and install it. Plus, in keeping with our commitment to greater sustainability for the planet, AAA technicians will also safely recycle your old battery.

Visit AAA.com to have a AAA technician check the condition of your battery – and replace and recycle it, if necessary.

The best road movies are all about the journey. This category of film often features a road trip or quest, where characters travel — whether it be via car, truck, train or on foot — on a journey that almost always changes the course of their lives, for better or for worse. 

You can watch these adventures unfold with our picks for the best road movies. All movies on this list have an average Rotten Tomatoes score of 70% or higher, and many of these films are part of the Criterion Collection.

“It Happened One Night” (1934)

This romantic comedy follows an entitled, runaway heiress (Claudette Colbert) and the reporter (Clark Gable) who tries to help her reunite with her new husband in exchange for an exclusive story. 

“Stagecoach” (1939)

The epitome of a Western, “Stagecoach” tells the story of a group of characters onboard a stagecoach leaving from Arizona to a settlement in Lordsburg, N.M. This film was also John Wayne’s second movie. 

“Sullivan’s Travels” (1941)

In this satire, a Hollywood director disguises himself and lives as a vagabond in order to gain a different perspective before filming his next movie. 

“Wild Strawberries” (1957)

One of Swedish director Ingmar Bergman’s most important films, “Wild Strawberries” follows a professor on his way to accept an honor as he encounters interesting characters and reflects on his life. 

“It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World” (1963)

This adventure-comedy follows a group of strangers as they travel around California looking for a buried fortune. The film is known for its all-star cast and scavenger-hunt-like premise.  

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“Easy Rider” (1969)

A true road movie and absolute must-see, “Easy Rider” captured the 1960s counterculture movement. The film follows two bikers enjoying the freedom of the open road as they travel cross-country.

“Vanishing Point” (1971)

A Vietnam veteran turned driver for hire (Barry Newman) transports a car cross-country after making a bet he can deliver it in less than 15 hours. 

“Two Lane Black Blacktop” (1971) 

This film follows a mechanic and driver duo as they leave California in their 1955 Chevy. After picking up a hitchhiker, they find themselves in a cross-country race for pinks against a Pontiac GTO.

“Smokey and the Bandit” (1977)

Burt Reynolds stars as Bo “Bandit” Darville in this action-comedy about two bootleggers who try to smuggle a tractor-trailer filled with 400 cases of beer across state lines.

“The Blues Brothers” (1980)

In this musical comedy, two brothers (played by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd) decide to reunite their band in order to raise money for the orphanage they grew up in.

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“National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983)

In this adventure comedy, a family’s road trip from Illinois to a theme park in California goes off the rails. “National Lampoon’s Vacation” was a box-office success and continues to live on as a beloved cult classic, inspiring multiple sequels. Not only is it one of the best road movies, it’s also one of the funniest.

“Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure” (1985)

When Pee-wee Herman’s beloved bike is stolen, he travels far and wide to find it. One of director Tim Burton’s lighter, brighter movies, this flick is kid-friendly. 

“Vagabond” (1985)

This French film tells somewhat of a story in reverse, opening on a wandering woman’s dead body before using flashbacks to explain what happened to her. 

“Something Wild” (1986)

Opposites attract in this romantic comedy where a quirky, free-spirited woman (Melanie Griffith) hijacks an uptight banker’s life, taking him (Jeff Daniels) on a wild adventure.

“Planes, Trains and Automobiles” (1987)

After a business trip to NYC, a marketing executive (Steve Martin) wants nothing more than to make it back home to Chicago in time for Thanksgiving. When he meets a traveling salesman (John Candy), the adventure becomes much more entertaining. 

“Midnight Run” (1988)

In “Midnight Run,” a cross-country chase unfolds after a bail bondsman (Joe Pantoliano) hires a bounty hunter (Robert De Niro) to bring an embezzler from NYC back to Los Angeles.

“Rain Man” (1988)

Two brothers (played by Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman) reunite for a cross-country trip after their father passes away, disproportionally dividing his fortune between the two.

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“Thelma & Louise” (1991)

A true road film, “Thelma & Louise” follows two women (played by Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon) as they embark on a road trip that goes wrong. 

“True Romance” (1993)

When a comic-book store clerk (Christian Slater) and a lady of the night (Patricia Arquette) fall in love, the pair decides to run away together. 

“Dumb and Dumber” (1994) 

This comedy follows two dimwitted friends (played by Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels) who find a suitcase full of money and travel to Colorado to try to return it. 

“Get on the Bus” (1996)

Director Spike Lee tells the story of a group of men on their way to participate in the Million Man March in Washington, D.C. During the bus-ride, these strangers connect through sharing life experiences. 

“Almost Famous” (2000)

In this coming-of-age story, a 15-year-old boy follows an up-and-coming band touring the U.S. in order to write a piece for Rolling Stone magazine.

“Sideways” (2004)

Two friends (played by Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church) take a trip to wine country for one last bachelors’ experience in this romantic comedy.

“The Motorcycle Diaries” (2004)

When two friends decide to ride motorcycles from Brazil to Peru before returning to school, they learn more about the world than they would have ever expected. “The Motorcycle Diaries” was inspired by true events.

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“Little Miss Sunshine” (2006) 

The Hoover family sets off in a VW bus, traveling cross-county so their youngest can fulfill her dream of competing in the Little Miss Sunshine beauty pageant. 

“Into the Wild” (2007) 

Based on a true story, “Into the Wild” follows a young man who decides to leave a life of privilege behind to explore the Alaskan wilderness. 

“The Darjeeling Limited” (2007) 

Auteur Wes Anderson tells the story of three estranged brothers hoping to reconnect as they take an exploratory train-ride across India. 

“Wendy and Lucy” (2008)

In this indie film, a woman (Michelle Williams) and her dog wander across Alaska looking for ways to survive. 

“The Road” (2009)

Based on the novel of the same name by Cormac McCarthy, “The Road” follows a father (Viggo Mortensen) and his son (Kodi Smit-McPhee) as they traverse a barren, post-apocalyptic landscape. 

“Zombieland” (2009)

In the midst of a zombie apocalypse, a small group of survivors travels across the U.S. looking for Twinkies and a safe place to call home.

“Locke” (2013)

Tom Hardy stars in this drama about a man driving to London for the birth of a child conceived during a one-night stand. The entire movie is set within the confines of the vehicle.

What’s do you think is the best road movie? Tell us in the comments.

AAA members can save on fuboTV, a live streaming television service that offers everything from live sports to prestige TV shows and movies. 

If you’re a fan of cars on the big screen, don’t forget to check out our car movies list or read our post on famous movie cars. 

In the past year, many of us have been forced to slow down our travel, trading in our tickets abroad for gas in our tanks. Road trips have been the saving grace for travel in the past year, especially when it leads us to stunning natural sites throughout the country. As more opportunities for travel open up, seeing these natural wonders of the U.S. should be high on your list of places to explore.

Note: Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 crisis, please see official websites before visiting to check for restrictions or closures.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Antelope Canyon is known for its smooth, vibrantly colored sandstone formations, photographed constantly by visitors near and far. You can snap some photos yourself at this popular natural wonder of the U.S. and watch the sun reflect on the stone, filling the canyon with a waterfall of bright natural light.

Natural Bridge State Park, Massachusetts

Most people travel to the coast of Massachusetts to soak in the sun at the beach, but don’t forget about the western side in the Berkshire Mountains. Lined with quaint towns to explore like Great Barrington, Stockbridge, Lee and Lenox – and filled with luxury accommodations, cute eateries and cutting-edge cultural institutions – it’s definitely worthy of a trip.

Make a stop in the town of North Adams, home to the Natural Bridge State Park. The natural bridge is smooth, made completely of marble and is the only one of its kind in North America.

Mount St. Helens, Washington

Mount St. Helens is a stratovolcano along the Pacific coast in Washington. The volcano is made mostly of lava, volcanic ash and minerals. The volcano famously erupted in May 1980, killing 57 people and destroying hundreds of homes.

Thunder Hole, Maine

If you visit Bar Harbor, Maine, you have to check out Acadia National Park. The views are absolutely stunning with cliffside landscapes located along the splashing shore. Hike through the park pathways to discover deep red stone off of the Atlantic. The park alone is noteworthy, but while there you can visit the popular Thunder Hole, a break between two towering rock formations that catches the strong ocean waves, sending crashing water and mist into the air.

Niagara Falls, New York

New York is full of stunning waterfalls, but of course the most well known is Niagara Falls. Not only can you see this natural wonder of the U.S. (and Canada) from an observation deck, but there are multiple ways to get up close and personal like the Cave of the Winds experience that goes into the Niagara Gorge.

Another New York waterfall worth mentioning is Kaaterskill Falls, a two-tiered waterfall in the Catskills. You’ll feel like you’re in Bali. And about an hour and a half downstate in Dover Plains, you don’t want to miss the Dover Stone Church; the natural rock formations created a church-type peak in a beautiful cave entrance with a waterfall housed inside.

Rainbow Hot Springs, Colorado

Of course, when you’re talking about natural wonders in the U.S., Colorado must come into the equation. Not only does the state have gorgeous mountains and landscapes, but it has plentiful hot springs, as well. Rainbow Hot Springs is a bit of a hike into the forest – nearly 5 miles – but the views and relaxing in the steamy hot mineral water is completely worth it.

Old Faithful, Wyoming

Old Faithful, the well-known geyser in Yellowstone National Park, is definitely worth the trip. Nature can be unpredictable at times, but not Old Faithful. According to Yellowstone.net, “Old Faithful erupts every 35 to 120 minutes for 1 1/2 to 5 minutes. Its maximum height ranges from 90 to 184 feet.” People come from all over to visit the famous park and see the geyser erupt in person.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

For nature buffs and hiking enthusiasts, the Grand Canyon National Park is a no-brainer. There are so many ways to explore the vibrant red rock and desert views: visitors can set out on whitewater rafting, hiking, biking or horseback riding excursions, or take a guided walk with a park ranger.

What are some of the most impressive natural wonders of the U.S. that you’ve seen? Tell us in the comments. 

Plan your next vacation with AAA Travel. 

From action and horror to animation and comedies, movies about cars come from a variety of genres and appeal to a wide range of audiences. Whether you’re looking for new or vintage automobiles, a thrilling car chase or impressive driving skills, you’re sure to find something you like on our car movies list.

While there are some amazing movie cars out there, like the bat mobile and Doc’s DeLorean time machine, this list focuses on movies about cars and the act (or art) of driving them. In these movies, cars aren’t merely eye candy; they help carry the film.

Check out our list of car films. All have an average score above 65%, according to Rotten Tomatoes and many have reached cult classic status or were Oscar nominees or winners.

“The Hitch-Hiker” (1953)

This suspenseful film noir follows two friends held at gunpoint by a hostile, psychopathic hitchhiker running from the law. The film was inspired by Billy Cook’s real-life murders and starts with text reading, “This is the true story of a man and a gun and a car.”

“Grand Prix” (1966)

Hailed as one of the best films about auto racing, “Grand Prix” follows the stories of four Formula One drivers at various stages in their careers. The movie won Oscars for film editing, sound and sound effects.

“Bullitt” (1968)

Starring Steve McQueen and featuring a classic car chase through San Francisco, this thriller on our car movies list tells the story of a cop (Lieutenant Frank Bullitt) on a mission to bring a mob boss to justice. It won the Oscar for best film editing and was nominated for best sound.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” (1968)

Inspired by Ian Fleming’s story “Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang: The Magical Car,” this family-friendly movie follows an eccentric inventor and his family as they use the magical car he creates to go on a fantastical adventure.

“The Italian Job” (1969)

Comedy meets crime in this British film featuring a car chase with three Mini Coopers and an iconic cliffhanger of an ending. A remake would come out in 2003, starring Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron and Edward Norton, among others.

“VW Käfer in Herbie-Optik” by GillyBerlin is licensed under CC BY 2.0

“The Love Bug” (1969)

The first of what would become a series of movies, “The Love Bug” tells the tale of an anthropomorphic Volkswagen Beetle named Herbie. The car’s iconic look — with its cream-colored paint job, red, white and blue racing stripes and number 53 — is still recognizable today.

“The French Connection” (1971)

Two New York detectives trail a heroin smuggler in this fast-paced crime drama based on true events. Not only does this film feature one of the greatest car chase scenes of all time, it won the Oscar for best actor, best directing, best film editing, best writing and best picture.

“Le Mans” (1971)

“Le Mans” tells the story of Porsche driver Michael Delaney (Steve McQueen), troubled by personal conflicts, as he prepares for and participates in a 24-hour endurance race at Le Mans, France. The film features real footage from the 1970 Le Mans race.

“Two-Lane Blacktop” (1971)

This road movie follows a mechanic and driver duo as they leave California in their 1955 Chevy. After picking up a hitchhiker, they find themselves in a cross-country race for pinks against a Pontiac GTO. “Two-Lane Blacktop” is both a cult film and a part of the Criterion Collection.

“Vanishing Point” (1971)

Barry Newman plays a veteran turned driver for hire in this action movie. Featuring a 1970 supercharged Dodge Challenger and a nail-biting police chase, “Vanishing Point” is a classic that’ll keep you entertained.

“Duel” (1972)

A young Steven Spielberg directed this TV film about a man commuting to work in a Plymouth Valiant until a truck hellbent on killing him begins its pursuit. This action-thriller was Spielberg’s debut and has been hailed as one of the best TV movies ever made.

“American Graffiti” (1973)

This coming-of-age story, directed by George Lucas and produced by Francis Ford Coppola, follows a group of friends cruising around their Modesto, Calif. town on the last day of summer. The film was nominated for five Oscars.

“Death Race 2000” (1975)

The indie and sports genres collide in this film about a dystopian future where drivers participate in a homicidal, Transcontinental Road Race. Though it faced mixed reviews upon release, the movie is now appreciated for its camp and over-the-top violence.

“Taxi Driver” (1976)

Directed by Martin Scorsese, this must-see film follows a troubled loner named Travis (Robert DeNiro) who becomes a cab driver in New York City. The film received four Oscar nominations.

“Goodbye Pork Pie” (1981)

This road movie follows two teens in a stolen yellow 1978 Mini — named Pork Pie — as they pick up a girl and try to evade the police. The 2017 remake “Pork Pie” is also worth a watch. This well-done reimagining was written and directed by the son of the first version’s director.

“Christine” by Conal Gallagher is licensed under CC BY 2.0

“Christine” (1983)

Based on Stephen King’s novel by the same name, this horror-thriller directed by John Carpenter centers around a boy and his 1958 Plymouth Fury, named Christine, that seems to have a murderous mind of its own.

“Heart Like a Wheel” (1983)

This biographical film tells the story of Shirley Roque, a woman who follows her dreams of becoming a drag racer despite the fact that racing was seen solely as a man’s sport.

“National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983)

A family’s road trip from Illinois to a theme park in California goes off the rails in this adventure comedy. “National Lampoon’s Vacation” was a box-office success and continues to live on as a beloved cult classic, inspiring multiple sequels.

“Repo Man” (1984)

Dark, edgy comedy meets science fiction in this cult classic and Criterion film. When a recently fired, punk-rocker named Otto (Emilio Estevez) begrudgingly becomes a repo man, he quickly realizes how exciting, strange and wild the job can be.

“Tucker 48” by strobie42 is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

“Tucker: The Man and His Dream” (1988)

This film tells the story of an auto-loving inventor (Jeff Bridges) who dreams of designing a car that would challenge the industry. It was nominated for three Oscars.

“Thelma & Louise” (1991)

A true road film, “Thelma & Louise” follows two women (played by Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon) as they embark on a road trip that goes wrong. It won the Oscar for best original screenplay and was nominated for best actress, best cinematography, best directing and best film editing.

“The Fast and the Furious” series (2001-Present)

These action films are packed with exhilarating street races, mind-boggling stunts and plenty of fast, flashy cars. This series began in 2001 and shows no sign of stopping, with a ninth movie set to release in May 2021.

“Cars” (2006)

This animated movie about anthropomorphic cars follows a race car, named Lightning McQueen, whose egotistical dreams of fame and fortune are changed by the charm of a small town and its inhabitants.

“Death Proof” (2007)

Written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, this “grindhouse” thriller follows a stuntman (Kurt Russell) who uses his “death proof” car to terrorize a group of young women. The film is a tribute to slasher films and muscle cars from the 1970s.

“Gran Torino” (2009)

Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, this film tells the story of a Korean War veteran named Walt. After a teenage neighbor tries to steal Walt’s prized 1972 Ford Gran Torino, and pays for his wrongdoing with chores, the two form an unlikely bond.

“Drive” (2011)

Ryan Gosling stars as an unnamed stuntman and mechanic who also midnights as a getaway driver. After falling for his neighbor Irene, the driver agrees to help her ex-husband with a heist that turns deadly. “Drive” was nominated for best sound editing and has been recognized for its hyper-stylized imagery.

“Filming of the movie Rush Opentrack Track Days 14th May 2012 Brands Hatch THP_8920” by Opentrack Track days is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

“Rush” (2013)

This biographical sports drama stories the intense, 1970s rivalry between two Formula One drivers: James Hunt of Britain (Chris Hemsworth) and Niki Lauda of Austria (Daniel Brühl).

“Mad Max: Fury Road” (2015)

In a brutal, post-apocalyptic world, a drifter named Max (Tom Hardy) and rebel named Furiosa (Charlize Theron) stand together against a tyrant. This film revitalized the Mad Max series and won a number of Oscars, including costume design, film editing and production design.

“Baby Driver” (2017)

When a young, music-obsessed getaway driver (Ansel Elgort) wants to put his life of crime behind him to be with the girl he loves, his boss has other ideas. The film received three Oscar nominations.

“Logan Lucky” (2017)

In this quirky crime comedy, two brothers (played by Channing Tatum and Adam Driver) team up with their sister (Riley Keough) and a convicted felon (Daniel Craig) to pull off robbing Charlotte Motor Speedway during one of NASCAR’s biggest races of the season.

“Ford v. Ferrari” (2019)

Staring Matt Damon and Christian Bale, this film depicts the rivalry between a car designer and a driver, leading to an epic showdown where Ford challenges Ferrari at the 1966 Le Mans race. This movie won  Oscars for film and sound Editing.

Have any other films to add to our car movies list? Share them in the comments.

AAA members can save on fuboTV, a live streaming television service that offers everything from live sports to prestige TV shows and movies. 

If you’re a fan of cars on the big screen, don’t forget to read our post on famous movie cars. And if you’re looking for movies all about the journey, check out the Epic Road Movie Roundup.

This post has been edited and expanded to include suggestions from our members. 

Stress is the body’s natural response to life’s changes and challenges. From everyday stressors like money, school and work to more situational strains like family drama, postponed plans and global events, stress affects everyone.

Stress signals the body to release hormones that help with your “fight-or-flight” response. While some stress can keep you motivated or help you react in crisis situations, unchecked long-term, or chronic, stress can harm your health over time.

Stress can manifest in mental and physical ways, influencing your behavior, your mood and your body. Discover how stress impacts your health and methods for coping with it.

Physical Effects

How does stress affect health? It’s not uncommon to feel it, and sometimes you can see it as well.

Stress impacts the body in internal and external ways, affecting everything from the heart and digestive track to the condition of hair, skin and nails.

It raises a person’s heart rate and blood pressure. “Repeated episodes of acute stress can cause inflammation in the coronary arteries, thought to lead to heart attack,” according to the American Institute of Stress.

Stress can also cause gastrointestinal problems, like heartburn, nausea and stomach pain. Prolonged and/or intense stress can cause more severe symptoms, like vomiting, constipation and diarrhea.

In addition, stress often manifests as muscle tension in the back, jaw and neck, which can lead to other issues. “The contraction of muscles for extended periods can trigger tension headaches, migraines and various musculoskeletal conditions,” according to AIS.

Another serious repercussion of stress is a weakened immune system. “People under chronic stress are more susceptible to viral illnesses like the flu and the common cold, as well as other infections,” according to AIS. “Stress can also increase the time it takes you to recover from an illness or injury.

Finally, stress can even affect your appearance. Hormonal changes brought on by stress can lead to dry/itchy skin, hives, rashes and acne (even in adults). Stress – specifically the cortisol release it triggers – can affect biotin levels, leading to hair loss and weakened nails.

Mental and Emotional Effects

Although feeling stressed is a mood in itself, stress can also cause other mental and emotional symptoms.

Some effects are relatively minor but can impede daily life, like forgetfulness, restlessness, irritability/anger, lack of focus or motivation and feeling overwhelmed. Stress can also lead to more extreme conditions like anxiety and depression.

Another common symptom is fatigue, which can also be accompanied by insomnia, or the inability to sleep. While many Americans say they don’t get enough sleep, nearly half (46%) of Americans say they’ve laid awake at night due to their stress levels.

Behavioral Effects

Feeling stressed affects human behavior in more ways than one because everyone reacts to stress differently.

Stress can cause some people to withdraw socially, inadvertently leaving more time to stress due to fewer distractions. Clenching and/or grinding teeth is common, especially during sleep, which can cause headaches and jaw pain later. Nightmares are also common.

Struggling with long-term stress can lead to impulsive behaviors, like over- and under-eating. Overeating causes weight gain and sluggishness while under-eating can cause dehydration and low blood sugar as well as feeling lightheaded and tired.

Nervous habits like excessive fidgeting and frequent crying spells are warning signs you could be overstressed. Prolonged stress can lead to more dangerous habits, like compulsive online shopping and dependence on alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

Ways to Combat Stress

While you may not be able to avoid every stressor, there are certain things you can do to cope with stress. The first step is knowing your triggers and figuring out what type of activities best combat your stress.

Calming Techniques

Some people respond well to soothing activities. Relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises and listening to calming music or podcasts are popular.

Spending time in nature is another great way to deal with stress. Bird-watching, gardening and going for nature walks work well for people looking to feel more in touch with the natural world.

Finally, take time for yourself. Do something to calm your mind and body, like napping, taking a bath or drinking some soothing tea. Similarly, try doing something you enjoy. Hobbies like baking and cooking, crafting, reading, doing puzzles and playing video games can help distract you from stress.

Active Techniques

Other people combat stress through physical exertion. Working out is one popular method. While regular exercise is good for physical health, it can improve your mood as well.

“Scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and stabilize mood, improve sleep and improve self-esteem,” according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA). “Even five minutes of aerobic exercise can stimulate anti-anxiety effects.”

Cleaning is another way people deal with stress. The act of cleaning and organizing can relieve stress by giving you a sense of control. Afterward, a clean, decluttered space will give you a sense of calm – and accomplishment.

AAA members can also take advantage of the Active&Fit Direct program, which offers digital workouts in categories like cardio, strength, dance, martial arts, mind/body, high intensity interval training and cycling. There are over 2,500 workout videos to choose from! Try out a bunch of different exercise regimens and see which ones you like best. And if you want to hit the gym when they open, Active&Fit Direct is partnered with over 11,000 fitness centers around the country.

Social Activities

Being social, like spending time with friends, family or your community, can also help relieve stress. Humans are social by nature, and spending time with people you love can improve your mood by giving you someone to talk to.

Spending time with animals is another great way to relieve stress, according to the ADAA. Play with your pet or consider adopting, fostering or volunteering at an animal shelter to get some quality time with animals.

If nothing else helps, consider seeking professional help. Talk to your doctor about your stress and symptoms. They may be able to help or send you to a mental health specialist.

Learn how COVID-19 anxiety can affect your driving. 

Find more Your AAA articles about health and fitness.

It’s an exciting day when your child finally gets a driver’s license, but shortly after you’re faced with a big decision. How do you pick a good first car? What makes for an ideal – and safe – starter vehicle?

If you haven’t bought a car recently it may be overwhelming to look at all the options. We break down the basics to make finding the best first car for your young driver a snap.

Focus on safety

Safety is a top priority. The challenge is figuring out which cars are the safest for teens. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, teenagers are three times as likely as adults to get into a deadly crash while driving.

A good place to start your research is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, where you can view crash test ratings, learn about advanced safety features and more.

AAA also provides teen driver resources at TeenDriving.AAA.com.

There are lots of new autonomous safety features found on today’s cars, but they often add quite a bit to the price. Focus on crash test scores first and then see what your budget allows.

Size matters

There are cars with room for anywhere from two people all the way up to a small army of teenagers. Think like Goldilocks and avoid those two extremes. Instead, go for the just-right option in the middle – you want plenty of protection in case of a fender bender.

Say no to performance

There isn’t a teenager out there who hasn’t dreamed of having a shiny red sports car in their driveway on the day they turn 16. High-horsepower sports cars are fun but aren’t a good idea for those who are still learning to drive. Let your kids keep dreaming about that fancy sports car and buy them something they can easily handle instead.

Think long term

Although you may be buying your child’s first car in high school, there’s a good chance it won’t be replaced until after college. It’s important to get a car that will last through all those years.

Consider a car with extra room for hauling stuff back and forth to college and apartments. Hatchbacks are great at doing double duty, with plenty of seating for passengers and a versatile cargo area.

Go with good fuel economy

Even if they have a job, young drivers don’t typically have tons of extra cash. If it’s too expensive to fuel up their new car, there’s a good chance they’ll be coming to you for a little help to fill the tank. Make it easier for them and buy a car with good fuel economy.

This also figures into the long-term value of a first car. Your child will likely go from broke high schooler to broke college student, so every penny matters. Buying a first car with good fuel economy ensures they’ll be able to keep if fueled up and ready to go throughout their college years.

Don’t forget technology

Technology is everywhere, including your car. This is generally a good thing, but it’s also a major cause of distracted driving. As a parent, how do you make sure your child is using in-car technology safely?

Features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly integrate smartphones with in-dash systems and reduce the temptation to pick up the phone, but have also proved to be distracting.

Automakers are helping by adding teen driver systems that keep the radio’s noise level down, encourage seatbelt fastening and more. The systems also provide parenting-assistance options, so you can coach them toward better driving habits. Learn more about teen driver technologies.

Follow these simple guidelines and you’ll easily find a first car for your new driver that he or she will never forget. Do you remember you first car?

If buying used, make sure to get a thorough inspection

A used car can be a great option for your kid as these vehicles generally cost less but usually still have many of the latest safety and technological features available. That said, since these cars have been around the block a few times, it’s important to get a used car thoroughly inspected and test driven before purchasing. Here are the items to look for:

• Remove all four wheels and check all the brakes including the parking brake.

• Fully inspect the steering and suspension system.

• Look for signs of rust or previous body repairs. Is the interior badly worn or does it look too pristine, like something was replaced to cover a long history or possible abuse? This all needs to be performed with the vehicle on a lift to carefully look for problems.

• Check the computer for diagnostic fault codes and be leery if the computer memory was cleared recently—someone could be hiding a check engine light issue.

• Drive the car. How does it ride? How does it handle? Does it drive straight?

• How does the engine perform and how does the transmission shift?

• Look for any smoke coming from the tailpipe (blue and white are bad).

• Operate all the controls. Does the A/C and heat work? Do the windows? Some window repairs can be $500 and up.

• Check all the vital fluids (much can be learned from fluid color), belts and hoses.

• Ask if there are maintenance records. Reports from the likes of CARFAX or AutoCheck can’t hurt but doesn’t always tell the entire story.

• Finally, use all of your senses, look over everything carefully, look around in nooks and crannies, check the trunk or spare tire storage for signs of water (could have been in a flood). Does it smell mildewy or too sanitized?

It’s always best to have a thorough inspection of a used car done by a professional auto shop, such as one of AAA’s Approved Auto Repair facility. Click here to find one closest to you.

Find tips for parent-teen driving agreements and other teen driver resources at TeenDriving.AAA.com.

Next step: car insurance. Click here for a complete guide to teen auto insurance. Then visit AAA.com/Insurance to see all the options available for your teen driver.

Electric vehicles are becoming more popular by the day. And as technology continues to improve — and the need for cleaner energy continues to grow — these cars are becoming not just more sought after, but more accessible. So what do we need to know about these vehicles of the future? First and foremost, is learning about the different types of electric vehicles.

These cars are not one-size-fits-all. From the manner in which they are powered to how far they can travel and how much they cost, there are some important aspects to sort through.

Conventional Hybrids

As the name implies, hybrid vehicles use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The motor in conventional hybrids cannot be plugged into an electrical source to be recharged. Instead, the motor’s battery gets its power from the gasoline engine as well as by capturing energy when the vehicle brakes. This process, which converts kinetic energy into electricity, is known as regenerative braking. The motor works with the engine to reduce gas consumption or even allows the engine to turn off.

Conventional hybrids offer a significant step up in fuel efficiency compared to traditional cars. The 2021 gas-powered Toyota Corolla gets an estimated MPG of 31 city/40 highway, while the hybrid version starts at $23,500 but has an MPG of 53/52.

Plug-in Hybrids

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are also powered by both a gas engine and electric motor. What differentiates them from conventional hybrids is the way in which the battery is charged. In addition to using regenerative braking, PHEV batteries are charged by plugging in an electrical outlet.

The main advantage of a PHEV over a conventional hybrid is its ability to run on electricity alone. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most PHEV can travel between 20 and 40 miles using only the electric battery. Because of this, plug-ins are substantially more fuel efficient.

Battery Electric Vehicles

Battery electric vehicles are cars powered by internal batteries charged by plugging into an outlet. Unlike hybrids, BEVs do not have a gas engine and rely exclusively on electricity to run. The lack of an engine means that BEVs do not produce any of the dangerous emissions that traditional gas-powered vehicles do. (There are some emissions created by charging these cars.)

Because they do not rely on gasoline, BEVs have extended ranges. The Tesla Model 3, the best-selling electric car in the U.S., has a combined MPG equivalent of 113 and can travel more than 350 miles on a single charge.

Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles

The least common type of electric vehicle, fuel cell electric vehicles are powered by electricity – but not from a battery. Instead, they are equipped with tanks filled with hydrogen. The car’s fuel cell combines this hydrogen with oxygen to produce electricity to power the motor.

Hydrogen-powered cars are still an emerging technology. In fact, most FCEVs are currently only sold/leased in California (although the Toyota Mirai can be leased in Hawaii). But their potential – 400-plus miles of range, a refueling time of less than five minutes – means you’re likely to see them become more available in the near future as the refueling infrastructure grows.

The Cost of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles are generally more expensive than similar, gas-powered cars. Of all the types of electric vehicles, conventional hybrids are usually the least expensive. (The Toyota Prius has a starting MSRP below $25,000.) As you move into fully electric cars, the price goes up. You’ll be hard-pressed to find one below $30,000, while a luxury model can easily reach into the six figures.

Other savings brought in from electric vehicles offset some of these costs. The most notable savings come at the pump. A study by Consumer Reports found that fuel savings can reach $4,700 or more during the first seven years of owning an electric vehicle. The total ownership savings over a similar gasoline-only car, including repair and maintenance costs, ranges from $6,000 to $10,000.

Electric vehicles are also eligible for tax credits. The federal government awards credits between $2,500 and $7,500 for the purchase of qualified electric cars. Many state governments have similar programs. For example, New York provides a rebate of up to $2,000, while Massachusetts awards $2,500 for an all-electric vehicle and up to $1,500 for a plug-in hybrid.

Charging Different Types of Electric Vehicles

Conventional hybrids do not need any external charging. They are powered by converting the vehicle’s own energy.

Plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles do need to be connected to an outside power source and there are options. Most owners will charge their cars at home. All electric vehicles can be plugged into a standard outlet. The only draw back to this method is the time is takes to recharge, usually eight or more hours. You can leave your car plugged in at night and be ready to go in the morning. But those who want to upgrade can install a wall-mounted charger in their home. This device delivers twice the voltage and cuts charging time in half.

The other popular option is using public charging stations. Though not as common as traditional fuel-pumping stations, the number of charging locations continues to grow. There are approximately 25,000 electric vehicle charging stations in the U.S. totaling roughly 80,000 charging outlets. Payment for the use of these outlets vary depending on the operator.

If you’re traveling a long distance, it’s always a good idea to plan out your route according to where you know you can get a charge. Motorists can find electric car charging stations with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA Roadside Assistance.

Do you own an electric vehicle? If so, what type? Let us know in the comments below.

Visit AAA’s Electric Vehicle platform for more information on these cars of the future.

When Capt. Kate McCue helmed the Celebrity Edge March 8, 2020, for a special International Women’s Day cruise, she had no idea she’d be at sea for the next 10 months. 

But that’s what happened when the cruise ended – and the world shut down. 

McCue and her all-female bridge crew, along with a full complement of ship employees, were stuck on board with nowhere to disembark because of worldwide lockdowns. 

But there was nowhere else she would rather be.  

“To have the women on board and to have such an empathetic environment was truly something mind-blowing,” McCue said. “And honestly, it’s an experience I would never trade in a million years.” 

When a crew member’s father died of COVID-19, co-workers held a celebration of his life. They celebrated a wedding, and an engagement. The hotel director had his first child, a baby girl, and they lit up her name in lights on the side of the ship.   

“We kind of saw that full circle – from that celebration of life, the wedding, the engagement and a birth – and of course celebrating birthdays for crew members sending them cake,” she said. “It’s been a special time. I’ve enjoyed because I’ve gotten to know my crew in a different way.” 

 

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Social Status 

The first American female cruise ship captain is also a certified social media star, along with her elf sphynx cat, Bug. (Bug even has her own Instagram channel with 49K followers.) It all came about organically, after she was promoted to captain of the Edge. 

Guests kept asking her the same questions that were coming up in media interviews.  

“That’s when I realized that I had been given this platform and if I shied away from this – if I didn’t try to normalize a woman in this role and kind of crush those stereotypes – then the next woman who came up would have to go through the same things and answer the same questions,” McCue said. “And I thought, I need to take this on, and I need to take this on in a genuine way so people can see what the job is like, can see the lifestyle, the benefits, and hopefully garner some interest, which it has.” 

Women – and men, too – contact her all the time on social media, saying they had no idea that being a cruise ship caption was a viable career option. They ask what to study, how to get started, and what to focus on. It’s something she didn’t have making her way into the industry. 

“It’s a great tool to be able to have,” she said.  

@captainkatemccueReply to @seamus272 ##yourewelcome ##fyp ##foryou ##captain♬ original sound – captainkatemccue

Like any social media whiz, she uses each platform for different things. Her Instagram channel (where she has 246K followers) serves as a personal photo album. Her inner “goofball” comes out on TikTok (a whopping 1.6M followers), which – like so many others – she discovered during the pandemic. It’s also where she likes to post quick question-and-answer clips.  

Her YouTube channel, meanwhile, is more of a deep delve into what the crew does, how they do it, and why things are done in certain ways. Longer videos are a good way to discuss day-to-day things like ship operations to equipment and opportunities they have out at sea. 

“It’s definitely a hobby, but it’s something that I really enjoy doing,” McCue said. “And I only post when I feel inspired.” 

Quarantine Time 

In the meantime, there’s plenty going on ship-side to keep McCue busy. When we spoke around the holidays, she was spending her days signing Christmas cards, wrapping presents and looking forward to the day when we can all travel again. 

“We’re not going to be away from travel forever. There’s no way,” she said. “People need to travel. They need to broaden their horizons. They love the experiences that it brings and how it fulfills your life. It’ll happen.” 

Plan your next cruise with AAA Travel. 

We all know the travel industry has been through a lot in the past year. But we didn’t anticipate how the high demand of getting back to travel in 2021 would affect car rentals. If you’re planning to travel in the near future and will need a rental car, you should book now. Recently, rentals cars have been extremely hard to come by depending on your destination, leading to exorbitant prices.

But why? When the pandemic hit the U.S. a year ago and air travel came to an abrupt halt, rental car companies found themselves with lots full of vehicles and no drivers to get behind the wheel. In turn, the companies began selling their cars in droves in order to generate money to stay afloat financially. According to CNN, more than half a million vehicles have been sold as used cars by the industry over the past 12 months. This represents roughly one-third of all the rental cars in the country.

As the travel industry has yet to fully rebound, rental companies have not had access to the funds to rebuild their fleet of cars. With such little supply, it’s critical to book your rental car as far in advance as possible, especially if you’re traveling during the summer months, which are expected to see an increase in travel.

“We’re seeing a surge in demand for leisure travel in vacation destinations across the industry…Given where the industry was during this time a year ago, we’re happy to help travelers return to the road safely,” Hertz spokesperson Lauren Luster told CNN. “Because of the spike in demand and tighter fleets across the car rental industry, availability may be more limited.”

So what does this mean for you? Like everything we’ve learned and experienced in the past year, we just have to adjust our former way of thinking and the same goes for how you typically rent a car. Think a bit further in advance, book ahead – maybe even before you’re booking your flight or hotel. Book early and book via AAA to save.

Travel safely and remember, AAA members can save up to 20% on Hertz rentals.

Car care is increasingly more complicated these days, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make some repairs on your own. Here are common car repairs you can safely and easily do yourself and some that are best left to the car care pros.

DIY Car Care

Changing a Flat Tire

Flat tires are a nuisance and they seem to strike at the most inopportune moments. You can call AAA services for help with the job or you can try to tackle this one all on your own. The process isn’t complicated and the tools to do the job should be in your car. Once you find the spare tire, jack and tire iron, you can remove the flat tire and pop on the spare, although it’s not always that easy. Get full, step-by-step instructions.

Checking the Battery

Dead batteries can strike at any time. Checking your car battery and knowing when it’s time for a new one should be part of regular car maintenance. If it’s time to replace, call for roadside assistance to get a battery delivered to you and installed properly.

Replacing a Light

Headlights, tail lights and turn signals tend to burn out and legally need to be replaced before you drive. If you can manage changing a household lightbulb, then you can change many of the bulbs in your car. Find the correct bulb at an auto parts store and then follow the instructions in your owner’s manual to see how to access and remove the old bulb. Keep in mind, not all lights are created equal; for example, some headlights require removal of the bumper cover to gain access to the bulb.

Replace an Air Filter

The job of keeping your engine free from dust and dirt goes to the air filter. Eventually, it gets dirty and needs to be replaced as a part of regular car care. You’ll find the air filter in the engine compartment beneath a cover that may be held on with screws, clips or clamps. Once you remove the cover, take out the the filter and clean the housing before installing the new one. Your owner’s manual has guidelines on how often this should be replaced, but a good rule of thumb is to do it every 30,000 miles and check the filter’s condition with each oil change.

Adding Oil

Checking your oil should be a regular part of monthly car maintenance and is essential to keeping your car in working order. If you check and find the oil is low, then it’s easy to add more. Purchase the correct grade at a gas station or auto parts store. Pop the hood and unscrew the oil cap. Pour in the fresh oil and once the dipstick shows it’s full, your car is all set. Learn more about changing your own oil. 

Tips and Tricks

• If you drop a part where you can’t reach it, dab some superglue on the end of a dowel or coat hanger, touch it to the object, wait a minute for the glue to dry and carefully retrieve the part.

• Using a spray with soapy water (kids bubble soap works great) can help find leaks. Just spray it to the suspected area and look for bubbles to form.

• Use a mixture of baking soda and water with an old toothbrush to clean the corrosion off your battery cables. Hot water and a little soap will work too.

• Cloudy headlights can often be improved with non-conventional approaches. Non-gel toothpaste contains abrasive that can clean a plastic headlight cover. As a last-ditch effort, if you need a quick fix, bug sprays that contain DEET will dissolve the plastic haze and temporarily clean the headlights.

• If you see a dent in your fender, a plumbing plunger often can pull out the dent. Pour hot water on the dented panel, attach the plunger and pull. If the panel isn’t creased, you might get lucky and the dent will be gone.

•  A plastic bumper can sometimes be salvaged with boiling water. Pour it over the bumper; it may soften it enough to manipulate the plastic from the backside so you can push it back into shape.

Car Care Best Left to Professionals

Timing Belt

Plenty of people try to replace the timing belt, but it’s not a good idea. This car care job requires taking apart a good bit of your engine. It also requires reassembling it correctly when the job is done. If you make a mistake putting things back together, what was originally an inexpensive car repair could end up being very costly.

Shock Absorbers and Struts

Not only is this a tricky job that can require special tools to perform correctly, but because you will need to jack up the car and climb under it to perform the job, it can be dangerous. Rather than risking injury and a poorly performed repair, it’s best to pay to have this done by a professional.

Radiator

This is a big one that people dread because it’s not cheap to repair. Depending on the vehicle, this can also be a difficult and time-consuming job. If you don’t follow procedures correctly a radiator replacement could turn into a much more expensive repair. This is such an important part of car care that doing it improperly could mean needing a whole new engine. Instead of taking that risk, have a professional do the job and you’ll know it’s done correctly.

Fuel Pump

The fuel pump supplies fuel to the fuel injector at just the right pressure. It is a sensitive part and an expensive one to replace. This might tempt you to try the job on your own, but that isn’t a good idea. In many cases you need to remove the fuel tank and depressurize the fuel system. This is definitely a job for the pros.

Brakes

Replacing your brakes isn’t the most complicated job, but it’s not one you want to do wrong. Your brakes are what stand between you stopping at a traffic light or careening into an intersection. If you don’t know how to do this correctly, is that a chance you’re willing to take? We didn’t think so. Seek a professional for this auto repair rather than risking brake failure.

What would you add to our suggestions for repairs anyone can handle versus those that should only be done by professionals? Let us know in the comments!

AAA members can save on automotive replacement parts and accessories at NAPA.

For discounts on repairs and quality you can trust, check out our AAA Approved Auto Repair facility locator here.

This post was originally published in January 2018 and has been updated. 

AAA employee Tiffany Edouard is a DIY home decorating enthusiast, charity supporter and a longtime volunteer in the community.

So when she heard about Help Her Home from a friend, it immediately sparked her interest. The organization designs and furnishes places where women can find peace and happiness after hardships such as homelessness and domestic violence.

“I’m always changing things and getting rid of things, so I asked if I could donate some of it,” said Edouard, a senior paralegal at AAA.

She also requested and received a $5,000 donation from AAA.

Volunteer Effort

For Women’s History Month in March, Edouard helped with the labor, using extra paid time off AAA  employees get for volunteering in the community. She worked at a safe house for women with the organization’s founder, Kendra Morales. They put together a private bedroom for a mother with three children. Other families occupy three additional bedrooms, and they all share the kitchen, which is part of a common area.

“Kendra told me AAA’s donation is allowing her to do that entire safe house,” Edouard said. “This really came full circle. I learned about the organization, then I joined the committee. I asked for a donation on their behalf, and they received it; then I actually saw the money being used.”

Edouard has been a volunteer in the community since a very early age. She gives her time and effort at hospitals, food banks and soup kitchens, just to name a few. This experience was different.

“It was touchable and attainable,” she said. “I could picture the people living in the space. When I was building a wardrobe, I was thinking about hanging little-kid-size hangers. It made me feel good that they would know it was specifically for them.”

For more about AAA efforts in the community, click here.

Today’s cars have an increasing number of safety features, but there’s one thing that still sits at the top of the list for ensuring you and your loved ones are safe – car brakes. Improvements over the years have made them better and longer-lasting, but if you don’t maintain them properly, then they won’t do their job. Here’s how you can properly take care of your car brakes and know when you need a car brake repair from an experienced professional.

How do car brakes work?

You know they slow you down, but how do they pull off the trick? Your car brakes are made up of multiple parts that work together to slow down your car. Most modern cars use disc brakes on all four wheels. These consist of a plate-like disc (rotor) attached to the wheel, caliper, brake pads, mounting hardware and hydraulics. When you push the brake pedal, that disc is squeezed by the brake caliper, which holds the disc brake pads. Think of your hand grabbing the edge of a spinning plate or how a typical bicycle brake operates. Brake pads are made of a variety of materials that are designed to provide friction and dissipate heat.

The calipers have, depending on the vehicle design, from one to eight pistons that push/squeeze the brake pads against the disc to slow it down. This involves a hydraulic system that pushes brake fluid from the master cylinder to those pistons. When you press on the brake pedal, you’re creating pressure and sending that fluid to the pistons. All of these parts, from the discs to the brake fluid, need to be maintained for your car brakes to work properly.

Check the brake fluid

If the brake fluid is low, it may be due to a leak or the brake pads wearing down. As the brake pads wear, the fluid level will drop in the brake fluid reservoir. If you notice any difference in the operation of your vehicles brakes have the car inspected by a qualified repair shop. You can check your brake fluid to make sure it doesn’t run low or run out, resulting in brake failure. If you are adding brake fluid regularly, there is a leak and it should be checked asap.

Start by checking your owner’s manual to find out where the brake fluid reservoir is located and read the guidelines for checking the brake fluid in your vehicle. Some anti-lock brake systems require pumping the brakes first, so find out if your vehicle has this requirement before you open the reservoir.

Clean the top of the reservoir thoroughly so no dirt gets into the fluid. Dirt can cause your system to fail completely, so make sure absolutely no dirt falls into the reservoir. Once the cap is off, check to see that the fluid level is within about a half inch from the top and add more fluid if it’s too low. Brake fluid absorbs moisture so open the reservoir and fill it quickly rather than letting it sit open. When adding brake fluid always use the proper fluid from a sealed container. Brake fluid attracts moisture. If your spare brake fluid is in an open container, dispose of it and buy new fluid and install the cap when you have topped off the brake fluid.

While it’s open, look at the color of the fluid. If it’s dark, then you should take your car in for service to have the brake fluid replaced. A general guideline is to have it changed once every two years to prevent damaging your car brake system.

While the cap is off of the reservoir, look at the color of the fluid. If it’s dark, then you should take your car in for service to have the brake fluid replaced. New fluid is clear/tan color, contaminated fluid gets darker with age. A general guideline is to have the fluid changed during brake service, although some manufacturer’s recommend fluid changes every two to three years, so check the vehicle’s owner manual.

How long do car brakes last?

How long car brakes last depend on a variety of factors. It’s best to check your brakes roughly every 7,000-10,000 miles to be sure the pads aren’t worn and that the discs and calipers are in good condition.

Worn brake pads announce themselves loudly with a high-pitched screeching sound. That’s the worn brake pad indicator, which is designed to make that noise as a warning. If you hear it, then take your car in to have the brakes checked as soon as possible.

Visually inspect the car brakes

Although you can sometimes see your brakes through the spaces in the wheel spokes, it’s better to remove all four wheels for a closer look. This is a job best done when your car hasn’t recently been driven as brakes get hot and you don’t want to burn your fingers during the inspection.

Safely jack up the car and remove each wheel, so you have a clear view of the disc. A little rust on the disc is OK, but heavy rust requires attention from an experienced service technician. Also look for any uneven wear or scoring on the disc. A professional can tell you if the discs need to be reground or completely replaced. Next, check the calipers. Uneven brake pad wear is an indication of calipers sticking or binding.

Lastly, check out the brake pads. You can see them through the inspection hole which is in the dust shield on the caliper. A mechanic will mount your car on a lift and measure them to ensure they’re not too thin. When they’re roughly a 3-mm thick, then it’s time to have them replaced. If you’re unsure about the thickness of your brake pads, then have a professional inspection.

Lastly, check out the brake pads, a flashlight will help you get a good view. Look at the inside and outside pads. The brake pads can wear differently from left to right, which is why it is important to check all the brakes for wear. At a professional repair shop, a technician will put the car on a lift, inspect not just the brake pads but also look at the brake lines/hose and other brake components. When they’re roughly a 3-mm thick, then it’s time to have them replaced. If you’re unsure about the thickness of your brake pads, have a professional brake inspection.

Car brake maintenance and repair is essential to the safety of both you and other roadway users. Have you ever noticed your brakes not feeling just right? Then it’s time to have them checked.

AAA members can save on automotive replacement parts and accessories at NAPA.

In honor of Car Care Month, AAA members can receive a free “wheels off” brake inspection, tire check, suspension check and tire rotation at a Approved Auto Repair facility all April long.

To learn about the vast array of automotive services AAA provides, click here. 

Last week, President Biden unveiled his plans for a $2 trillion infrastructure bill. The far-reaching proposal, entitled The American Jobs Plan, covers everything improvements to water systems to investments in caregivers.

Most notably, the bill would finally address the country’s long-failing transportation infrastructure by investing $621 billion in the sector. (The American Society of Civil Engineers recently gave America’s infrastructure a C- grade.) The funding would include $115 billion for bridges and roads improvements. According to the White House, the money will be used to modernize “the bridges, highways, roads, and main streets that are in most critical need of repair.” This is good news for motorists in the Northeast as the region has more than its fair share of the worst roads in the country.

The largest allocation of funds to the transportation sector would be the $174 billion in electric vehicle (EV) investments. This will help provide consumers rebates and tax incentives for purchasing EVs, as well as establish grant and incentive programs for state and local governments and the private companies to build an additional 500,000 EVs chargers by 2030. The dearth of public charging stations is seen as one of the main hurdles to a wider adoption of EVs in the U.S.

Other transportation funds would include $20 billion to improve road safety, $85 billion for existing public transit, $80 billion for railways, $50 billion to improve infrastructure resilience, $25 billion for airports, $17 billion for waterways and ports of entry, $20 billion to reconnect urban neighborhoods cut off by highways.

It’s important to remember that this is simply the president’s proposed legislation. It still needs to be approved by Congress, a process that could likely see the amount of spending, and where it is spent, altered significantly.

Get more automotive news.