April is National Car Care Month

Time to Focus on Your Vehicle Investment

BETHESDA, Md., March 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- April is National Car Care
Month, the time of year to focus on taking better care of your second largest
investment. Most motorists would like to add years of reliable life to their
vehicle and, during these uncertain economic times, they are looking for the
best value when it comes to auto repair, according to the Car Care Council.

"The economy is on everyone's mind these days and National Car Care month is
the perfect time to remind car owners that putting off vehicle maintenance now
can lead to more extensive repairs down the road," said Rich White, executive
director, Car Care Council.

R.L. Polk & Co. recently reported that the median age of passenger cars in
operation has increased to a record high of 9.4 years in 2008. "This trend,
coupled with the current economic environment, has led motorists to seek
affordable vehicle maintenance to keep their vehicles in safe working order,"
said White. "Because value is on the minds of most Americans, many are
turning to their local repair shop for maintenance and service."

According to a study by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association,
vehicle repairs cost an average 34 percent more at new car dealerships than at
independent repair shops, resulting in $11.7 billion in excess costs annually
to consumers.

"Neighborhood repair shops are the backbone of the automotive repair industry,
offering value and convenience," continued White. "Because a vehicle is the
second largest investment for most car owners, they want it serviced by
someone they trust It makes sense to take the time to select an auto repair
facility that will provide a good value and take the best care of their
vehicle investment."

The Car Care Council's Web site features a "Find a Shop" locator to help
motorists find a repair shops their area. The direct link to the locator is
http://www.carcare.org/carcare_location.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware"
consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care,
maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council's Car Care
Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

SOURCE Car Care Council

Rich White of Car Care Council, +1-301-654-6664, rich.white@aftermarket.org;
or Lynn Konsbruck, +1-312-768-7362, lkonsbruck@maxmarketing.com, for Car Care
Council