When it comes to choosing between AAA and MCA, there are a lot of things to consider. Ranging from price of membership, insurance options as well as roadside assistance. While MCA offers an all-inclusive package, AAA has different categories from members to choose from. AAA offers more help when it comes to insurance policies and roadside assistance if its members are stuck on the road. On the other hand, the MCA focuses on providing drivers with driver education programs and roadside assistance.
AAA or MCA
The AAA is distinct from the MCA because it offers a narrower focus on being an association for automotive enthusiasts rather than focusing on providing support for car owners beyond getting their vehicles back to working order. Here are some differences.
Cost
The AAA charges between $6 – $11 monthly and the membership begin immediately. MCA charges between $10- $20 per month and the membership begin a day after payment.
What they offer?
AMA
- Towing (membership level limits the number of miles)
- Tire replacement
- Extraction in an emergency
MCA
- Towing and Lockout
- Delivery of fuel
- Tire replacement and battery recharge
Roadside Assistance
AMA
When you call AAA for service, the representative should be able to give you an estimate of how long you’ll have to wait. Members who have their membership cards with them can receive roadside help in a vehicle that is not their own. We may charge separately some services from your usual membership fees.
MCA
No matter the vehicle being driven, members can always rely on this service; members can call for service on any vehicle as long as they have their membership card with them. One can make an unlimited number of calls per year. It takes about 30 minutes to get connected to a call agent. Although, bad weather may sometimes affect the waiting period
Types of vehicles covered
AMA
Automobiles, motorcycles, travel trailers, etc. are all eligible. But sometimes, one needs an additional membership or pay extra.
MCA
An MCA membership covers a whole lot of vehicles ranging from cars to motorbikes and even boats.
Insurance
AAA sells insurance, including house, renters, life, vehicle, and pet insurance, besides roadside help memberships. If you buy over one insurance policy, you might be eligible to earn a discount. In sharp contrast, MCA offers no insurance.
What is the American Automobile Association?
The American Automobile Association (AAA) was founded to provide automotive safety and protection for members. Today, the AAA is an association whose members include car manufacturers, the insurance industry, repair shops, and car clubs.
What is the Motor Club of America?
The Motor Club of America is a not-for-profit, independent club organization with over 1,000 local chapters and 3,000 members in the U.S. and Canada. Today, the Motor Club of America offers a variety of programs and services to its members, including insurance and car repair resources, driver education and on-the-road training, financial services, and recreational programs. The Motor Club of America is distinct from the American Automobile Association because it is a club organization that provides a wide variety of programs and services for its members, not just insurance.
What’s the difference between AAA and MCA?
The major difference between the two organizations lies in their focus. The American Automobile Association is primarily an insurance company that focuses on drivers and car maintenance, while the Motor Club of America is primarily a car club organization with a focus on vehicle maintenance. The Motor Club of America provides a wider range of programs and services to its members, including financial services and recreational programs.
Bottom line
Both AAA and MCA provide similar roadside help and discount programs, and both have been the subject of BBB complaints. They have similar pricing as well, with MCA asking for more money upon sign-up and AAA perhaps requiring more money for additional services not included in the monthly membership price. MCA does not have a limit on the number of service calls that can be made per year, but they limit AAA members to four service calls per year. AAA offers insurance products, MCA does not.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is my AAA membership for my whole family?
Yes, however, each member of the family must be added to your AAA Membership account as an associate.
- Does AAA have emergency services?
You’ll be ready for an emergency before it comes if you have AAA on your side. Weekends, holidays, rain or shine, AAA will be there for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You’re covered by insurance whether you’re a passenger or a driver in any vehicle driven in the United States or Canada.
- Does MCA cover just one car?
Yes, your MCA coverage takes care of any vehicle you’re in, whether or not you’re driving. The car receives service as long as you, the cardholder, are present.
