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By Clifford Auto Parts
In today's automotive market, more vehicle owners are focusing on preventive maintenance rather than waiting for major repairs. With the cost of new vehicles continuing to rise, drivers are looking for ways to extend the lifespan of their current cars, trucks, and SUVs.
This shift is creating new opportunities across the automotive aftermarket.
The Cost of Waiting Too Long
Many vehicle failures don't happen overnight. Worn brake pads, aging belts, failing water pumps, and deteriorating suspension components often show warning signs long before they cause serious problems.
Ignoring these signs can turn a relatively inexpensive repair into a costly breakdown. For example, replacing a worn timing belt is far less expensive than repairing engine damage caused by a belt failure.
As consumers become more aware of long-term ownership costs, preventive maintenance is gaining greater attention.
Technology Is Helping Drivers Stay Ahead
Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors and monitoring systems that can alert drivers to maintenance needs before a major issue develops. Oil life monitors, tire pressure sensors, battery monitoring systems, and diagnostic alerts help vehicle owners address problems early.
This has increased demand for replacement parts that support routine maintenance and scheduled service intervals.
Benefits for Vehicle Owners
Preventive maintenance offers several advantages:
Improved vehicle reliability Better fuel efficiency Reduced repair costs over time Increased resale value Enhanced safety on the road Many drivers are realizing that regular maintenance is one of the smartest investments they can make in their vehicles.
Growing Opportunities for the Aftermarket
As more consumers prioritize maintenance, demand continues to grow for filters, brake components, suspension parts, ignition components, cooling system parts, and other wear-and-tear items.
Repair shops and parts suppliers that educate customers about maintenance schedules can build stronger relationships while helping vehicle owners avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Looking Ahead
The trend toward longer vehicle ownership is unlikely to slow down anytime soon. As vehicles remain on the road for more years, preventive maintenance will play an even greater role in keeping them safe, reliable, and cost-effective.
For the automotive aftermarket, this represents a significant opportunity to support drivers through quality parts, expert advice, and reliable service.
Do you think today's drivers are becoming more proactive about maintenance, or are most still waiting until something breaks? Share your experience below.
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view’s 2026 Annual Meeting and Giving Rally brought together more than 850 distributor members, suppliers, and industry partners for a week of connection, collaboration, and industry advancement, while raising $70,000 for the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF). “The generosity and engagement we saw this week was truly inspiring,” said Tina Hubbard, president and CEO of HDA Truck Pride. “Raising $70,000 for AACF reflects the powerful heart of this network—coming together to support our own when it matters most.”
Tina Hubbard, president and CEO, HDA Truck Pride. The event kicked off with a welcome reception, live auction, and the annual Giving Rally Cornhole Tournament, setting the tone for a week centered on purpose and community. Proceeds from activities throughout the week directly benefit AACF, which provides critical support to families within the aftermarket industry facing hardship.
“Spending time with the
link hidden, please login to view Truck Pride community at their Annual Meeting was incredibly meaningful,” shared John Kairys, executive director of The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF). “The conversations, the willingness to help, and the genuine care for others in our industry really stood out. That kind of support allows AACF to step in quickly and make a real difference for families facing difficult moments.” Trade Show And Breakout Sessions
Monday’s agenda featured a trade show where attendees connected on new product innovations to drive business forward. A series of breakout sessions delivered actionable insights on key topics including artificial intelligence adoption, cybersecurity preparedness, digital visibility, operational efficiency and workforce development.
USS Midway And Cornhole Tournament Finals
An evening aboard the historic USS Midway brought attendees together for laughter, friendship, patriotism, and a tribute to veterans. The cornhole tournament finals were held onboard, with Joe Brooks and Dan Harbut of Acme Truck Brake & Supply taking home the championship title.
Network Growth, CVL Warehouse, And Right-To-Repair
Tuesday’s general session highlighted the continued strength and growth of the HDA Truck Pride network, which now includes more than 220 member companies, more than 1,000 distributor locations, and more than 550 service affiliates across North America. Leadership emphasized ongoing investments in the new HDA Truck Pride CVL Warehouse with expanded product access, digital transformation, and workforce development.
Advocacy efforts included Right-to-Repair initiatives and building future talent pipelines.
HDA Truck Pride EDDY Awards
The meeting recognized excellence across the network through several HDA Truck Pride EDDY Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to education, leadership, and professional development.
“HDA Truck Pride is a great place to be—because of our people,” Hubbard said. “Every member who chose to invest in us. Every supplier who chose to partner with us. Every staff member who chooses to show up every day. We built this. And we are only getting started. We’re especially grateful to our supplier partners, including our Annual Meeting Valor sponsors — Gates, Milwaukee, Old World Industries, Valvoline, and Bendix, without whose support we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
Pictured above (from left): Jon Owens, president, AACF Board of Trustees; Tina Hubbard, president & CEO, HDA Truck Pride; John Kairys, executive director, AACF.
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By Counterman
The
link hidden, please login to view (AACF) announced Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH) as the recipient of its Humanitarian Award during a presentation at the link hidden, please login to view. Presentation at MEMA Vision Conference
The award recognizes individuals and organizations in the automotive aftermarket who demonstrate outstanding compassion, generosity and service to others.
link hidden, please login to view was selected from a group of nominees representing the industry’s commitment to giving back. The award was presented on stage to Corey Bartlett, president and CEO, on behalf of APH by AACF President Jon Owens, alongside Joe Stephen of NEXUS North America and AACF Executive Director John Kairys. Corey and his brother, Lee, thanked the audience with a
link hidden, please login to view. “
link hidden, please login to view truly represents the heart of the aftermarket,” said Owens. “Their commitment to helping others and bringing people together to make a meaningful impact is an inspiration to us all.” Community Impact and Fundraising for WACOSA
APH was recognized for its longstanding dedication to community impact, including leading an annual fundraiser supporting adults with disabilities. Through its efforts—alongside supplier partners and the Bartlett family—APH has helped raise more than $3.2 million over the past 13 years, with a record $482,000 raised in 2025.
Proceeds from these efforts benefit WACOSA, a Minnesota-based nonprofit that empowers adults with disabilities to gain skills, find meaningful employment and thrive within their communities. APH’s leadership and collaborative approach have helped expand opportunities for hundreds of individuals each year.
“We are honored to receive this award from AACF,” said Bartlett. “It’s fantastic recognition for the entire APH team and our supplier partners, who have been incredibly generous in helping support the communities that we serve. Giving back is important to us, and we’re proud to be part of an industry that cares so deeply about helping others.”
Support From NEXUS North America
The AACF Humanitarian Award is supported by
link hidden, please login to view, whose partnership helps shine a light on the people and organizations making a difference across the aftermarket. “At NEXUS, we believe the strength of our industry lies in how we support one another here in North America and around the globe,” said Stephen. “Automotive Parts Headquarters is a powerful example of that commitment in action, and we’re honored to help recognize their incredible impact through this award.”
AACF also extended its appreciation to all nominees, noting that the selection process reflected the strength, compassion and generosity that define the automotive aftermarket community.
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By Counterman
The
link hidden, please login to view is encouraging industry supporters to participate in its promotional campaign, which combines its ongoing 1969 Pontiac Firebird sweepstakes with a limited-time April giveaway. Throughout April, entrants in the Firebird sweepstakes are automatically entered for a chance to win an Advance Professional Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit with Stand. April promotion and giveaway details
The promotion includes an added incentive: 30% more entries into the Firebird sweepstakes during the campaign period. The flash giveaway winner for the Solo Stove will be selected in early May.
1969 Pontiac Firebird grand-prize specifications
The featured grand prize is a restored 1969 Pontiac Firebird finished in Champagne Gold Metallic. It includes a 350-cubic-inch V-8 engine, TH350 automatic transmission, dual exhaust, front power disc brakes, 17-inch Yokohama tires and an updated air conditioning system using R134a refrigerant.
Mission and entry information
AACF noted that the April promotion is designed to increase engagement while continuing to raise awareness and support for the foundation’s mission. Participants can enter the sweepstakes online, with proceeds supporting AACF’s efforts to provide financial assistance to automotive aftermarket professionals and their families in times of need.
For more information or to enter, visit www.aftermarketcharity.org or
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