AAA generally does not change trailer tires as a standard service. While AAA offers roadside assistance for passenger vehicles, extending that coverage to trailers often requires a specific membership add-on or a separate policy specifically designed for RVs and trailers.
Understanding AAA Roadside Assistance and Trailers
AAA’s core roadside assistance packages are primarily designed for passenger vehicles, including cars, motorcycles (in some cases), and light trucks. These packages typically cover services like jump-starts, fuel delivery, lockout assistance, and tire changes. However, the coverage for trailers, RVs, and other towed vehicles is significantly different and typically requires a supplemental plan. The reason for this difference lies in the increased complexity and equipment required to service trailers.
Why Trailer Tire Changes are Different
Changing a tire on a trailer presents several unique challenges compared to changing one on a passenger vehicle:
- Heavier Loads: Trailer tires are designed to carry significantly heavier loads than car tires. This necessitates specialized jacks and tools capable of lifting the weight safely.
- Diverse Trailer Types: From small utility trailers to large RVs, trailers come in various sizes and configurations. The appropriate tools and techniques can vary widely depending on the type of trailer.
- Potential for Damage: Improperly lifting or changing a tire on a trailer can lead to structural damage to the trailer’s frame, axles, or suspension. AAA technicians are trained primarily on passenger vehicles and may not have the specific expertise required for trailers.
- Safety Considerations: Working on the side of a road with a heavy trailer presents increased safety risks for both the technician and passing motorists.
Exploring AAA Membership Options for Trailer Coverage
To obtain AAA coverage for your trailer, you typically need to explore options beyond the standard membership levels. This often involves adding a RV or trailer endorsement to your existing membership, or opting for a more comprehensive RV-specific plan. These specialized plans are designed to address the unique needs of RV and trailer owners.
Finding the Right AAA Plan
The specific coverage details and availability of RV and trailer plans can vary depending on your geographic location and the AAA club in your area. It’s essential to contact your local AAA branch or visit their website to inquire about available options. When discussing your needs with a AAA representative, be sure to ask about:
- Tire change coverage for trailers.
- Weight and size limitations for covered trailers.
- Towing coverage for trailers.
- Service availability in your typical travel areas.
Alternative Roadside Assistance Options for Trailers
If AAA doesn’t provide the coverage you need for your trailer, several alternative roadside assistance options are available. These options may include:
- Specialized RV and Trailer Roadside Assistance Providers: Companies like Good Sam Roadside Assistance and Coach-Net specialize in providing roadside assistance services specifically for RVs and trailers.
- Insurance Policy Roadside Assistance: Some auto or RV insurance policies include roadside assistance coverage as a standard feature or as an optional add-on.
- Independent Mobile Tire Repair Services: Many mobile tire repair companies offer services for trailers and can come directly to your location to change a tire.
Preventing Trailer Tire Issues
The best way to avoid the need for roadside assistance for your trailer is to practice proactive maintenance and take steps to prevent tire issues.
Key Preventive Measures
- Regular Tire Inspections: Check your trailer tires regularly for signs of wear and tear, including cracks, bulges, and uneven tread wear.
- Proper Tire Inflation: Maintain the correct tire pressure as specified by the trailer manufacturer. Using a tire pressure gauge is crucial for accuracy.
- Wheel Bearing Maintenance: Ensure your wheel bearings are properly lubricated and in good condition. Faulty wheel bearings can cause excessive heat and tire failure.
- Balanced Load Distribution: Distribute the load in your trailer evenly to prevent excessive stress on any one tire.
- Tire Age: Replace tires based on age, even if they appear to have sufficient tread depth. Rubber degrades over time, making older tires more prone to failure. A common guideline is to replace tires after 6-7 years, regardless of tread wear.
- Spare Tire: Always carry a properly inflated spare tire, along with the necessary tools to change it.
- Training: Familiarize yourself with the proper procedure for changing a trailer tire. Practice in a safe environment before you need to do it on the side of the road.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about AAA and Trailer Tires
FAQ 1: If AAA doesn’t change my trailer tire, can they tow my trailer instead?
Generally, even with RV/trailer add-ons, towing is more likely than a tire change if a flat occurs. AAA may tow your trailer to a repair facility, depending on your coverage limits and location. Check your specific plan details.
FAQ 2: What tools do I need to change a trailer tire myself?
Essential tools include a trailer-rated jack, lug wrench, wheel chocks, safety triangles, a torque wrench, and work gloves. Consider also carrying a breaker bar for stubborn lug nuts.
FAQ 3: How do I know what size jack to use for my trailer?
The jack must be rated for the weight of your trailer. Check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your trailer, usually found on a sticker near the hitch. Choose a jack with a weight capacity that exceeds half of the GVWR, as you will only be lifting one side at a time.
FAQ 4: Where is the best place to position the jack on my trailer?
The jack should be placed on the trailer frame near the axle you’re working on. Consult your trailer’s owner’s manual for the recommended jacking points. Avoid jacking directly on the axle itself unless specifically instructed by the manufacturer.
FAQ 5: What if my lug nuts are seized and I can’t loosen them?
Try using a penetrating oil such as WD-40 or PB Blaster and letting it soak for a few minutes. A breaker bar or impact wrench can provide extra leverage. As a last resort, you may need to call a mobile tire service.
FAQ 6: What is the proper torque specification for my trailer’s lug nuts?
The torque specification is crucial for ensuring proper wheel attachment. Refer to your trailer’s owner’s manual or the tire manufacturer’s recommendations. Using a torque wrench is essential to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening the lug nuts.
FAQ 7: How often should I replace my trailer tires, even if they look okay?
Even with minimal wear, most trailer tire experts recommend replacing tires every 6-7 years due to rubber degradation. Check the tire’s date code (DOT code) to determine its age.
FAQ 8: What does the “ST” designation on my trailer tires mean?
“ST” stands for Special Trailer. These tires are specifically designed for trailer use and have different construction and load-carrying characteristics than passenger car tires.
FAQ 9: Can I use passenger car tires on my trailer?
Never use passenger car tires on a trailer unless specifically recommended by the trailer manufacturer. Trailer tires are designed to withstand the specific demands of trailer applications, including heavier loads and constant flexing.
FAQ 10: What should I do with my old trailer tires after I replace them?
You can typically recycle your old tires at a local tire shop or recycling center. Some retailers may also offer tire disposal services.
FAQ 11: How important is it to have a spare tire for my trailer?
Having a spare tire for your trailer is absolutely crucial. A flat tire can occur at any time, and without a spare, you’ll be stranded until assistance arrives. Make sure your spare tire is properly inflated and in good condition.
FAQ 12: What if I don’t know how to change my trailer tire?
If you’re not comfortable changing your trailer tire yourself, it’s best to call a professional for assistance. Contact a mobile tire service, a roadside assistance provider, or a local repair shop. Attempting to change the tire without the proper knowledge or equipment can be dangerous and can damage your trailer.