AutoZone Sending Generators to Florida From Stores Nationwide

Hurricane's Flooding Hard on Vehicles

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 8 -- AutoZone , the nation's leading auto parts retailer, announced today it is continuing to pull portable generators from all across the country into Florida to help out in this time of crisis. "Since Hurricane Charley devastated central Florida last month, AutoZone has been pulling generators from 3,300 other AutoZone stores and distribution centers across the country to have them available to our Florida customers," said Mike Longo, the company's Senior Vice President of Merchandising. "Now, with Hurricane Frances and whatever future storms may bring, AutoZoners are working around the clock to ensure we have the right products to help in the relief and restoration efforts."

"As of today, there are about 100 portable generators available in AutoZone stores in the affected areas of Florida and the company is doing everything possible to acquire additional units," Longo said. In addition to the portable generators, AutoZone also has gas cans, tarps, flashlights and batteries to service customers' needs.

Much attention has been placed on restoring power and rebuilding homes and businesses. However, vehicles are highly susceptible to damage during high winds, rain and particularly flooding. AutoZone urges its customers to check their vehicles' transmission fluid and engine oil for signs of water contamination. "It's easy to do. You can identify water contamination by milky colored oil and water on your vehicle's dipstick. If your vehicle has been contaminated, you need to change your oil and filter immediately to prevent costly engine damage," Longo said.

Other automotive products expected to be in high demand in the affected areas of Florida include car batteries, air filters, fuel filters, wheel bearing grease, starters, alternators, vehicle computers and control modules.

About AutoZone:

As of May 8, 2004, AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts, chemicals and accessories through 3,337 AutoZone stores in 48 states plus the District of Columbia in the U.S. and 60 AutoZone stores in Mexico and also sells the ALLDATA brand automotive diagnostic and repair software. On the web, AutoZone sells diagnostic and repair information through http://www.alldatadiy.com/ and auto and light truck parts through http://www.autozone.com/ .