BETHESDA, Md. — Scheduled maintenance, brake work, engine tune-ups and wheel alignment/balancing were among the most common consumer vehicle repairs of 2017, according to new research from IMR Inc.
While these three service-related items were among the top repairs tracked by IMR, the Westmont, Ill.-based research firm noted that the replacement of oil/oil filters, wiper blades and air filters were the three most common services requested by motorists.
Purchasing new tires was rated No. 5.
"With scheduled maintenance toward the top of the list, these findings are a sign that more motorists understand the importance of routine vehicle maintenance and are taking steps to ensure the safety and dependability of their vehicles," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council (CCC), which released a synopsis of the IMR research.
The 10 most common vehicle services performed by vehicle owners and auto repair shops last year were:
- Oil/oil filter changed;
- Wiper blades replaced;
- Air filter replaced;
- Scheduled maintenance;
- New tires;
- Battery replaced;
- Brake work;
- Antifreeze added;
- Engine tune-up; and
- Wheels aligned/balanced
The CCC did not elaborate on what "scheduled maintenance" comprised.
The CCC, which oversees the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign, is a division of the Auto Care Association.
