BETHESDA, MD -- Consumers ranked quality and trust as the top two factors when deciding who will repair their vehicles, according to a recent study conducted by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). Cost of service ranked seventh in the set of criteria influencing consumers' selection decisions.

"Repair shops who currently advertise and market on price alone should rethink their strategy to meet the expectations and motivations of today's more savvy motorist customer," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA president and CEO. "Convenience, speed of service and their past experiences with a service provider are more important than cost of service to consumers."

"The Aftermarket Consumer: DIY or DIFM" study reveals that quality also ranked number one in importance among DIYers in selecting an outlet to purchase the parts and supplies used to perform vehicle service themselves. About 68 percent of DIYers in the study said they purchased their parts and supplies during the past 12 months from an auto parts store.

The report analyzes consumer responses to numerous topics including consumer maintenance and repair behavior, frequency and type of DIY/DIFM work, where DIYers purchase products and why. The report also includes DIY and DIFM demographics.

"The Aftermarket Consumer: DIY or DIFM" is available to AAIA members for $295 and to non-members for $795. For more information or to order a copy, contact AAIA at 301-654-6664 or visit: www.aftermarket.org.

Copyright 2005 AFX News Limited. All Rights Reserved.

_______________________________________

Click here to view the rest of today's headlines.