I used to have AAA. The wait times were usually a couple hours, but the service was great and mechanics were always very helpful.

I dropped because I changed my car insurance to USAA, which has roadside assistance and generally fantastic customer service. To be honest, I don’t see a different between the two in terms of wait times, or service.

But a breakdown is never convenient.

I have AAA and last year, when I broke down on a highway, they tried a little while and then said I was on my own. My car insurance road-side-assistance was then able to find me help.

So, don't assume they'll always be there for you.

I've had AAA for years, and have been very satisfied. I get the PP's point about paying for rare usage, but when my car once broke down on the Beltway, I was panicked and there was no way I could think of how to find a towing company! We also have coverage through our car insurance, but that is also harder to figure out than AAA.