EVANSVILLE, Ind. -- United Components Inc. (UCI) has announced results for the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2009. The company reported revenue of $218.8 million, up $15 million, or 7.4 percent, compared to the year-ago quarter. UCI also reported that revenue increased in the retail, traditional, OEM and OES (new car dealer service) channels, and decreased only in the heavy duty channel.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, as adjusted consistent with the company’s historical presentations, was $38.8 million for the fourth quarter, compared with $16.9 million for the year-ago quarter.

Net income attributable to UCI for the quarter was $8.5 million, including $6.3 million, net of tax, in special charges, consisting of costs related to obtaining new business, restructuring and severance costs, and class action and patent litigation costs. Excluding these charges, adjusted net income attributable to UCI would have been $14.8 for the quarter. Adjusted net income attributable to UCI for the fourth quarter of 2008 was $0, excluding $5.3 million, net of tax, in special charges, consisting of costs related to obtaining new business, integration of water pump operations, trademark impairment, a one-time warranty expense, defending class action litigation, establishing new facilities in China and a reduction in force.

“We’re very pleased to complete 2009 on a very strong note, with our best quarterly EBITDA performance in two years,” said Bruce Zorich, chief executive officer of UCI. “Our commitment to operational excellence and a leaner cost structure has allowed us to post sequential EBITDA improvement for four consecutive quarters.

“While we’re pleased to have achieved this performance in a year of flat sales caused by the sluggish economy, we’re very encouraged by the positive top-line trends we are now seeing,” continued Zorich. “The indicators we look to in our business, including miles driven and vehicle age, signal revenue growth into 2010. In addition to this organic growth, recent new business wins and revenue opportunities have us excited about future growth prospects.”

As of Dec. 31, 2009, the company’s debt stood at $422.2 million. The company ended the quarter with $131.9 million in cash.