U.S. Motor Vehicle Aftermarket Grows to $267 Billion

AAIA 2006/2007 Aftermarket Factbook Now Available

BETHESDA, MD - June 15, 2006 - U.S. motor vehicle aftermarket sales grew by 5 percent in 2005 to $267.6 billion, the largest increase since 2000, according to the 2006/2007 Aftermarket Factbook, recently published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

"We're extremely pleased to see steady growth in aftermarket sales while the new car dealerships' share continues to slide for the fifth consecutive year," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "And contrary to the frequent prediction that DIY is dying, our data shows that the DIY side of the industry grew by a healthy 5.6 percent."

Industry growth was led by the medium and heavy duty segment, which expanded 6.2 percent to $70.6 billion. The automotive light vehicle segment increased 4.6 percent to $197 billion.

The 2006/2007 Aftermarket Factbook includes statistical tables, charts, analysis and trends in the U.S. and key international markets covering:

* Overall size of the automotive (i.e., light duty) aftermarket.
* Overall size of the heavy duty aftermarket.
* Key aftermarket segments (paint and body equipment, tool & equipment, etc.).
* DIY consumer demographics.
* Vehicle registrations.
* Vehicle sales.
* Vehicle usage statistics and operating costs.
* Miles driven.
* Sales of aftermarket accessories.
* Sales of automotive chemicals and fluids.
* State summary statistics.
* U.S. trade data of motor vehicle parts and accessories.
* Information on the Chinese and Canadian aftermarkets.
* Key economic and financial indicators.
* Guide to aftermarket data resources.

The full-color Factbook is available for $149 for AAIA members and $449 for non-members. To order by phone, call 301-654-6664, or order online at www.aftermarket.org. Discounts are available for multiple copies.

About AAIA

AAIA is a Bethesda, Md.-based association whose more than 8,000 member companies and affiliates manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, service, tools, equipment, materials and supplies. Through its membership, AAIA represents more than 100,000 repair shops, parts stores and distribution outlets.