Wiper blades lead aftermarket growth. (Market Focus).

The size of the U.S. motor vehicle aftermarket grew by 3.5% in 2001 to $255.2 billion, with the automotive segment recording the largest growth, a 4.8% jump to $178.8 billion, according to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

According to the group, windshield wiper blades were the strongest sellers in the aftermarket accessories category with a 9.8% increase for the year. Other highlights of the AAIA report:

* The service repair or "do it for me" (DIFM) segment of the auto repair aftermarket increased by more than 6%, grossing about $123 billion in 2001, while the "do it yourself" (DIY) market grossed about $35 billion. Tire sales accounted for $20.5 billion of sales.

* Vehicle service repair, accounting for two-thirds of total automotive aftermarket sales, rose 6.3% to $123 billion.

* Do-it-yourself (DIY) sales were up 2.2% in 2001.

* The number of aftermarket industry mergers and acquisitions slowed, and the value of the deals was significantly less in 2001.

* A 6.2% increase in sales for the collision repair industry reflects statistics reporting more vehicles involved in collisions in 2001.

* U.S. motor vehicle parts and accessories exports declined by 7.2% to $50.2 billion.

* Medium and heavy duty aftermarket product sales declined by 1% to $60.9 billion.

* Automotive chemicals and motor oil increased 6.8% to $9.9 billion, with appearance chemical sales growing 13.4%.