The Automotive Market Research Council aftermarket committee's report estimates $3.1 billion will be spent in 2002 for appearance and accessories, with the majority of spending occurring in wheels. Steering and suspension spending is an estimated $486 million at the warehouse distributor (WD) level.

The shock and strut market declined to $415 million at the WD level. This is attributed to increased durability and delayed replacement of struts due to cost.

The 2002 brake system market will reach an estimated $1.81 billion at the WD level. Brake disc pads, calipers and brake hardware sets are expected to increase from 1 to 3 percent in sales while brake drums, brake rotors, brake shoes and master cylinders are expected to decline 1 to 2 percent.

The exhaust system is projected to reach $600 million at the WD level. Catalytic converters are projected to increase while exhaust pipes and mufflers are facing a decline of 4.4 percent.

Drivetrain systems are projected to decrease to $1.13 billion at the WD level. New and remanufactured clutches are estimated to take the largest decrease. Fuel systems should reach the $817 million level in 2002. Fuel pumps, oxygen sensors and fuel injectors are projected to increase.

The electrical market is estimated to generate $3.59 billion at the WD level. This includes an increase in alternators, starters, crank and cam position sensors, battery cables, sealed beams and bulbs.

Total sales in 2002 for the heating and cooling market are estimated at $1.23 billion (WD level). A/C compressors and radiators will see a 1 percent increase while thermostats, V and serpentine belts and upper and lower hoses should remain flat.

Engine parts sales for 2002 are projected to decrease to $854 million.

Lastly, general maintenance items such as air filters, gas filters, oil filters and windshield wiper blades are all projected to increase between 1 percent and 2 percent, generating $1.2 billion at the WD level.

Stat Corner is written by Denise Caspersen, ASA's research management specialist. She can be reached at (800) 272-7467, ext. 236.

RATE THIS ARTICLE What do you think of this article? Your input will help AutoInc. develop additional articles on this subject. Share your thoughts! Your name Your e-mail address

MOST ACCESSED ARTICLES Fuel Injection Service, Not Just Cleaning The Art of Extraction EGR Systems: Operation and Diagnosis Proactive Target Marketing:_Rethinking Your Business Strategy Engine Performance: HO2S Diagnostics MOST E-MAILED ARTICLES Developing Employee Potential How Critical Thinking Can Help Your Business How to Diagnose the Ford Glow Plug What to Look for When Shopping for the Right Shop Management Software Putting a Price Tag on Complaints

AutoInc. Web Site | ASA Web Site | ASA, Automakers Reach Agreement on Service Information | More Than Just Brakes | Diminished Value | Pre-Employment Screening | NACE 2002 Special Section | Guest Editorial | Tech to Tech | Tech Tips | Shop Profile | Net Worth | Stat Corner | Chairman's Message