Are automakers or consumers at fault? Recent headlines have focused on one alarming statistic: average new vehicle payments have climbed to record highs, now approaching $770–$780 per month, with a growing percentage of buyers taking on payments exceeding $1,000. The conclusion many articles draw is simple: the automotive industry has become unaffordable, and consumers are trapped in a dangerous cycle of debt. While there is certainly truth behind the affordability concerns,

Huge Win for Our Industry! The EPA’s decision to recognize the Specialty Equipment Market Association as an alternative certification authority for emissions-compliant aftermarket products is one of the most significant regulatory shifts the automotive aftermarket has seen in years. From my perspective, this isn't just another policy update. This has the potential to reshape innovation, competition, time-to-market, and consumer choice across the entire aftermarket industry. A

Look around the room; AI sure does know me. I recently spent some time reviewing the 2026 SEMA Market Report, and there were several insights that stood out to me. The first takeaway is simple: the automotive aftermarket remains incredibly resilient. U.S. consumers spent just under $53 billion on vehicle accessories and modifications in 2025, which is a strong indicator that demand remains healthy despite a challenging economic environment. That said, the market is clearly se