If your car suddenly breaks down, the real question is not if you need help but who you should trust to get you moving again. That’s where the debate between Five Star Roadside and AAA comes in. Both offer roadside assistance, but the differences are bigger than most drivers realize. From cost to speed, from coverage to convenience, this breakdown will show you why many drivers are leaning toward Five Star Roadside. And if you’re stuck right now, here’s the number: 1(800)-497-5860.
comparison between five star roadside assistance and AAA
1. Cost Difference Between Five Star Roadside and AAA
Five Star Roadside keeps things simple. An on-demand service call is $59.99 flat, no hidden fees. Membership starts at $65/year for Basic and $75/year for Elite.
AAA, on the other hand, starts at $64/year for Basic, but higher tiers like Plus and Premier can climb to $125+ per year, plus extras for RVs, motorcycles, or additional drivers.
2. Membership vs On-Demand: Which One Fits Better?
Five Star Roadside gives drivers two clear choices: pay-per-use at $59.99 or a membership plan with included service calls.
AAA does not offer true on-demand service. Membership is required, and add-ons like motorcycle or RV coverage increase the annual fee.
3. Service Call Allowance: How Many Times Can You Use It?
With Five Star Roadside, Basic membership gives 2 calls per year, and Elite gives 3 calls per year.
AAA includes 4 calls annually, but the distance limits on towing make the coverage less straightforward.
4. Response Time: Five Star Roadside vs AAA
Because Five Star Roadside dispatches the closest available pro, response is typically quick and local-focused.
AAA members report mixed experiences: some get help within 10 minutes, but others wait up to 4 hours, especially during peak demand.
5. Fuel Delivery: How Do They Compare?
Five Star Roadside delivers fuel right away, but fuel cost is not included.
AAA covers fuel differently: Basic members must pay for fuel, while Plus and Premier members get free fuel delivery included.
6. Battery Services: Five Star Roadside vs AAA
Five Star Roadside includes jump start and battery replacement options on demand or through membership.
AAA also offers battery boosts in every plan, but members report occasional issues with battery installations and extra charges.
7. Tire Change Difference
Five Star Roadside changes your tire using your spare, included in both on-demand and membership.
AAA also includes tire changes in every plan, but distance restrictions on towing may still apply if the spare isn’t usable.
8. Lockout Help: Side by Side
Five Star Roadside covers car lockouts under both membership and on-demand service for $59.99.
AAA lockout limits are capped: up to $50 for Basic and up to $100 for Plus and Premier, which may not always cover locksmith costs.
9. Towing Limits: A Key Difference
Five Star Roadside does not emphasize long-distance towing but ensures local help is dispatched for emergencies.
AAA places towing at the center of its service, with 3-mile limits for Basic, 100 miles for Plus, and 200 miles for Premier.
10. Coverage Area: Local vs Nationwide
Five Star Roadside operates in 42 U.S. cities, focusing on direct service delivery where coverage is guaranteed.
AAA covers members nationwide, but service quality varies by region because it relies on independent contractors in many places.
11. Simplicity vs Complexity in Plans
Five Star Roadside keeps plans straightforward: $65 Basic, $75 Elite, clear inclusions, no complex tiers.
AAA layers plans with multiple extras, add-ons, and variable fees, which can overwhelm or confuse customers.
12. Reliability Difference in Real Emergencies
Five Star Roadside is designed to send the nearest available provider as quickly as possible.
AAA’s scale makes it reliable in theory, but real-world cases show missed calls, denied reimbursements, and multi-hour waits during busy times.
13. Wait Time Experiences: Contrast Between Drivers
Five Star Roadside keeps wait times short, with dispatch tied directly to location-based availability.
AAA has been reported to take 15 hours in rare peak events like winter storms, handling 1,300+ calls with only 200 trucks.
14. Cost Effectiveness: Which Saves More in the Long Run?
Five Star Roadside’s $59.99 flat service fee can be cheaper than AAA’s annual plans if you only need help occasionally.
AAA becomes cost-effective only if you use multiple services within a year, but with higher annual fees, it’s not always the better deal.
15. Customer Satisfaction and Experience
Five Star Roadside emphasizes a straightforward, no-hassle experience with affordable pricing and fast response.
AAA carries a strong national brand reputation, but customer reviews show mixed satisfaction—ranging from excellent to frustratingly poor, depending on region.
Final Word: Which One Works Best for You?
When comparing Five Star Roadside vs AAA, it really comes down to what drivers value most. If you want simplicity, affordability, and fast on-demand service for $59.99, Five Star Roadside is built for you. If you prefer layered memberships, wider towing ranges, and nationwide reach, AAA might fit better. But in terms of straightforward cost, quick service, and no hidden surprises, more and more drivers are choosing Five Star Roadside.
And if you’re on the road right now, stranded with a flat tire, a dead battery, or a lockout — here’s the number you’ll want to keep handy: 1(800)-497-5860.
FAQ
What makes Five Star Roadside different from AAA roadside assistance?
Five Star Roadside is built on simplicity and speed. With AAA, many drivers must wait on hold, deal with tiered memberships, and face hidden fees. Five Star Roadside offers two clear options: a $59.99 flat fee per on-demand service or a straightforward membership. That means no guesswork, no complicated plans—just help when you need it.
Why do many drivers prefer Five Star Roadside instead of AAA?
Drivers often switch because Five Star Roadside is faster and more transparent. AAA has long contracts and higher annual costs, whereas Five Star Roadside gives flexibility. You can call 1(800)-497-5860 for immediate help, pay once, and move on, or choose a membership if you prefer long-term coverage.
How does the cost of Five Star Roadside compare to AAA?
Five Star Roadside keeps it simple with a flat $59.99 per service when using the on-demand option. AAA membership fees vary depending on state and tier, often costing hundreds annually plus additional charges for extra miles or services.
Which company responds faster: Five Star Roadside or AAA?
Response times vary by location, but many customers report shorter waits with Five Star Roadside. Unlike AAA, which sometimes prioritizes members with premium plans, Five Star Roadside treats every call equally—whether you’re using the one-time option or membership.
Does Five Star Roadside cover rental cars for roadside assistance like AAA does?
Yes, Five Star Roadside helps with rental cars. Whether you’re locked out, dealing with a flat, or need a jump start, you can call 1(800)-497-5860 and get roadside help—without worrying about rental company limitations.
What is the main benefit of choosing Five Star Roadside over AAA?
The main benefit is freedom of choice. You’re not locked into a long contract, and you know the cost upfront. With $59.99 on-demand service or a simple membership, you get transparent pricing and fast response every time.
Can I cancel a membership plan with AAA and switch to Five Star Roadside instead?
Yes, you can cancel an AAA membership if you no longer want to continue with their yearly auto-renew plans and switch to Five Star Roadside. With Five Star Roadside, memberships run on a yearly basis, and once your term is complete, you can decide whether to renew or not. For drivers who prefer more flexibility, there’s also the option to skip membership entirely and use the $59.99 on-demand service whenever help is needed.
I already have AAA. Can I also use Five Star Roadside for emergencies?
Yes, you can. Many drivers keep AAA for long-term perks but call Five Star Roadside when they want immediate, affordable help. Having both gives you flexibility, but often drivers find Five Star Roadside alone is enough.
Which company has higher customer satisfaction: Five Star Roadside or AAA?
Customer feedback shows drivers appreciate the clarity and affordability of Five Star Roadside. Many AAA members complain about slow response and hidden fees, whereas Five Star Roadside is praised for its transparency and quick service.