As more strapped Americans opt to fix their cars , repair shops are doing well . The U.S. auto industry is the largest in the world and has been for a long time now. Last month , sales of new cars were down more than 40 percent compared with the same time last year , according to sales tracker Autodata . Members ' sales grew 16 percent over the last year . D.C. shop owner : `` People are willing to spend more '' to keep cars well-serviced . Trend seems to have translated into increased traffic at auto parts stores , as well .
As more strapped Americans opt to fix their cars , repair shops are doing well . The U.S. auto industry is the largest in the world and has been for a long time now. Members ' sales grew 16 percent over the last year . D.C. shop owner : `` People are willing to spend more '' to keep cars well-serviced . Trend seems to have translated into increased traffic at auto parts stores , as well .