BETHESDA, MD -- U.S. motor vehicle aftermarket sales increased by 5.4 percent in 2004 to $257 billion, according to the "2005/2006 Aftermarket Factbook," recently published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

"Wall Street should take notice that in 2004, our market expansion exceeded forecasts by nearly 2 percent," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "Continued growth in the number of registered vehicles, licensed drivers and miles traveled are factors driving another strong year in 2005."

Industry growth was led by the medium- and heavy-duty segment, which expanded 7.1 percent to $66.5 billion. The automotive light vehicle segment increased 4.8 percent to $190.5 billion.

The "2005/2006 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 & body equipment, tools and equipment, etc.)
* DIY and DIFM consumer trends
* Vehicle registrations
* Vehicle sales
* Vehicle usage statistics and operating costs
* Miles driven
* Purchases 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 four-color Factbook is available for $125 for AAIA members and $225 for non-members. To order by phone, call 301-654-6664, or order online at www.aftermarket.org. Discounts are available for multiple copies.

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