EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn.--18 April 2011-- GE Capital Fleet Services today announced the results of its 16th annual fleet passenger car maintenance study, which found that overall fleet car maintenance costs remained flat in 2010 compared to 2009. Maintenance costs stabilized due to an increase in vehicle replacement in 2010.
The study, based on a survey of actual maintenance expenses incurred by more than 11, 000 passenger cars from January 1 to December 31, 2010, found that on average car maintenance costs fell slightly from $61.22 to $59.77 per vehicle each month. Key takeaways from the study that helped influence stabilized maintenance costs include:
- Decreased average tire expense -- Increased vehicle replacement in 2010 meant fewer new tires were purchased, which helped keep overall tire spend down
- Increased preventive maintenance expense - costs for oil changes rose slightly from the previous year, and 10 percent ($3) higher since 2008
- Improvement in overall vehicle quality -- In 2010, overall vehicle quality increased across the industry, compared to previous model years resulted in longer lasting parts, and less frequent maintenance requirements
"As we move past the economic downturn, companies continue to remain strategic about their fleet replacement decisions while working to manage their maintenance cost bottom line," said Eric Strom, maintenance and safety product manager for GE Capital Fleet Services. "This study provides us with data to keep our customers informed and allows us to continue delivering comprehensive fleet management solutions to meet their needs. "
About GE Capital, Fleet Services
GE Capital Fleet Services, based in Eden Prairie, Minn., is a global fleet management company with operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Visit the Web site at www.gefleet.com or follow company news via Twitter (@GEFleetSvcs).
About GE Capital
GE Capital offers consumers and businesses around the globe an array of financial products and services. For more information, visit gecapital.com or follow company news via Twitter (@GECapital). GE (NYSE: GE) is an advanced technology, services and finance company taking on the world's toughest challenges. For more information, visit ge.com.
Ned Reynolds
GE Capital
[email protected]
+1 203 2295717
+1 203 8370699
Sherri Ruesink
Capital Solutions - Fleet Services
[email protected]
1-952-828-2875