I haven't paid much attention to booking class, usually just pick the lowest fare, but I swear every single AS flight we have taken over the last several years, we have been able to select Exit row for free based on my husband's AA Gold/OW Ruby status.

Now today for the first time no dice. I called and was told it was possible only 24 hours before departure. We have always selected Exit row at the time of booking, even months in advance.

Did something change?

Edit: Well this is odd. Went back in to see about paying to upgrade, and after being told on the phone that it won't happen, can't happen, not supposed to happen...it happened. We are now in the exit row with no charge.

Also just realized that this was a thread about Saver Fares (which this was not) so sorry about that.