Eek AA surprise renewal!!

Sarri_2

Hello

I've just checked my bank statement to find the AA have taken out £91 for my breakdown recovery renewal, which has come as a bit of a surprise!

I knew I'd set up a direct debit but I thought I'd get written warning of the payment in advance as I wasn't completely sure of the renewal date. I was planning to switch providers (since I've found this site since joining the AA last year and realised my cover was pricey ) Am I in a position to complain to the AA - or do I just have to take the hit for being forgetful? I certainly wont renew with them next year!!

Thanks
Sarri

Quinny_2

I got Green Flags top cover,which is normally £65,for £45 via Quidco.

I can't understand why people use the AA or RAC,because some of the time,not all,they subcontract to small garages that are agents of Green Flag and other organisations anyhow,and they are more expensive than other organisations.

Ken.

Viz_2

I have previously re-newed with the RAC via DD as it saved me an extra 10%. Once the money had been taken I removed the DD.
I know this doesn't help you now

I think you should call them and explain that you only aurthorised last years fee. Tell them you want your money back, but if you want to stay with them ask for a discount for inconvenience to yourself (no warning of money being taken).

Sarri_2

Yup, I realised after joining this site I was paying far too much - will do as you suggest Viz and see if I can bring them round. If they don't budge and I have to stay with them for the next year I will make it very clear they won't be getting my custom again!

Thanks for the suggestions,
Sarri

iceicebaby

The terms and conditions of the AA cover that you received when you took it out first (the info that came with the card) would have made it clear that it is a continuous payment authority and so will therefore be renewed each year unless you tell them not too. As you didnt, for whatever reason, they renewed. Did they send you a new card for this year as with the accomapnying letter it would have said that they would be applying for payment.

Either way, you do have a 14 day cooling off period so as long as its not 14 days since the renewal date you can cancel it and get a refund (subject to you not having called then out in that 14 day period)

Hope this helps

Sarri_2

So, I spoke to the AA and it turns out that they sent a letter out at the end of January with a new card. That doesnt seem to have made it to me (not a complete surprise, we have an ongoing problem with a street with the same name only a couple of miles away, we get their mail now and again so I presume some of ours goes there - v difficult to know what to do about it). Anyhow.. I digress.

The AA have agreed to refund the money less an admin charge of £14. I'm not really sure what the £14 covers, but I'd rather just have the rest of my cash back than pay so much for my cover..

Thanks for all your help, Sarri