In recession, many fix old autos instead of trading in
Auto dealers and garage owners say they are seeing drivers pay more attention to regular maintenance and be more willing to spring for costly major repairs now that they are reluctant to trade in their junkers. “People are hanging on to them right now, and they’ve got to keep them running,” says Tim Smith of Bob Smith BMW/Mini in Calabasas, Calif.
• Repair shops. Some 60% of the independent mechanics responding to a survey by Automotive Service Association reported sales up last year over the previous year. Only 14% reported a decline. This year, 76% say they expect more work.
Shop owners say, “It’s common these days to hear from motorists, ‘I don’t want to buy a new car right now so … should I spend the money and fix this one?’ ” says ASA spokeswoman Angie Wilson.
Read full story here:…In recession, many fix old autos instead of trading in – USATODAY.com.
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on Feb 8 2009. Filed under Auto Maintenance.
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