Cars are a guy thing … at least that’s the conventional wisdom. The truth is, even when it comes to cars, it is truly a she-conomy. Women control most purchase decisions for the family, including that formerly male-dominated domain: the family vehicle.

The most recent data shows that women control most of the auto related decisions for the family. Women influence more than 85 percent of all automotive sales in U.S. households. Women comprise 50 percent to 65 percent of the customer base at service centers. Women buy 60 percent of all passenger tires.

Yes, even the tire purchases are controlled by women. But when was the last time you saw a tire ad on a TV show with primarily women viewers? The truth is that the auto industry depends on alternatives to viagra women but does a terrible job talking to them and educating them.

For most families, the car is the second most valuable asset after the home. It’s needed to get to work to support the family, to chauffeur the children to play dates and soccer practice, and to ferry the entire family on vacations. It just makes sense to obtain the knowledge necessary to take proper care of such large investments.

A woman making a decision about car maintenance needs knowledge to make the right choice – as is true with all purchase decisions, knowledge is power. A little knowledge can go a long way in helping a woman determine the best course when auto service is needed.

Here are some points to consider when deciding on car maintenance and repair:

* Search for your local independent repair facility – it’s often the best choice. These local businesses have all the diagnostic Viagra Jelly tools as dealerships and their technicians are just as well trained. There many more independent shops than dealerships and they are often more conveniently located to home, work and schools. These shops have the added advantage of providing service for all of your family’s vehicles, not just one make or model.

* Make sure the establishment you choose is Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified and a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

* Be sure you get a written estimate for all service to be performed and be sure you understand the work to be performed and the parts to be installed. A reliable independent shop owner is always willing to take the time to explain the procedure as well as the parts and labor required.

* Schedule regular maintenance for your car as recommended in the owner’s manual. Keeping your car in good running order saves money in the long run – it can improve performance and gas mileage as well as prevent costly breakdowns. Keep the phone number of your local independent shop as handy as your doctor and dentist contact information. And make those vehicle maintenance appointments as routine as making all other family appointments.

* Make sure both the parts and labor come with a warranty.

* cialis price Ask about the quality and brand of parts to be installed in your car and then research the brand – search the Web, ask a neighbor, phone a friend – but do your homework.

The last point is particularly important because the quality of the part can have a great bearing on the safety of the vehicle. Unfortunately, many poorly-made parts from off-shore suppliers have found their way into the market. The installation of these cheaply-made parts into a consumer’s car can compromise the performance and safety of the vehicle. The cheaper parts also tend to fail earlier, often costing more money and grief for the consumer.

Parts from recognized, brand name suppliers always meet and often exceed the quality of those of the original manufacturer. That is why, the smart woman asks about the parts being installed in her car. She will always insist on parts from a recognized and trusted manufacturer.

It is always smart to “know your parts” when it’s time for car maintenance.

Author Bio: The Automotive Aftermarket Supplier organization is a trade organization representing North American Automotive Aftermarket suppliers. Visit http://www.AASAKnowYourParts.org for details on the “Know Your Parts” campaign.

Category: Cars and Trucks
Keywords: AASA, car maintenance, car repair