Automotive Aftermarket Sales Projected to Hit $676 Billion
As vehicles stay on the road longer, owners should prepare for sustained maintenance needs in the coming years.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Auto Parts
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The U.S. automotive aftermarket is projected to reach $676.5 billion in sales by 2029 as the average age of light-duty vehicles hits 12.9 years. Industry experts anticipate a 5.4 per cent growth rate in 2026, driven by households keeping cars in service longer.
Why it matters
Rising vehicle prices and an aging car population are pushing more owners to prioritize maintenance over new car purchases. This shift keeps vehicles on the road for longer, increasing the demand for parts and repair services.
The automotive aftermarket grew 3.9 per cent in 2025, with projections indicating further growth of 5.4 per cent in 2026. The total U.S. vehicle population is expected to reach 301 million by 2029, a 10 million unit increase from 2025.
The players
Auto Care Association
An industry trade organization representing the automotive aftermarket and providing research on vehicle maintenance trends.
The details
The industry is growing as consumers hold onto older vehicles to navigate rising new-car prices. With the average light-duty vehicle now 12.9 years old, the need for consistent mechanical upkeep has become a standard requirement for maintaining household transportation. As the vehicle population expands, the market is scaling its capacity to provide the parts and services required to keep these aging fleets reliable.
Timeline
2025: The aftermarket industry grew 3.9 per cent.
2026: The aftermarket is expected to grow 5.4 per cent.
2029: Aftermarket sales are projected to reach $676.5 billion.
The Home Front
The steady rise in the average vehicle age reflects a broader shift toward extended ownership cycles in the American household. This trend aligns with the Auto Care Association's data, which shows a sustained reliance on the automotive aftermarket to manage aging transportation assets.
As your vehicle ages, consider scheduling regular inspections with a licensed professional to manage wear and tear effectively. Planning your annual budget to include preventive maintenance rather than just reactive repairs can help extend the life of your car as vehicles stay on the road longer.
The takeaway
The trend of keeping cars on the road longer means your household budget should account for consistent, multi-year maintenance plans. Keep a record of your vehicle's service history in a centralized location to help track upcoming maintenance needs for your older model.
Further reading
To understand how to keep older vehicles running reliably, visit our guide on Auto Parts.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Auto Service World.
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