It Pays to Upgrade

 Premium Shocks Like Monroe Reflex(TM) and Monroe Sensa-Trac(R) Help Increase
                   Driver Safety and a Shop's Bottom Line.

    MONROE, Mich., April 2 Tenneco Automotive, maker of
Monroe(R) Reflex(TM) and Monroe Sensa-Trac(R) shock absorbers, wants to help
installers educate their customers that vehicle safety can be enhanced with an
upgrade to "premium" shocks.  Not only will this increase a shop's bottom
line, it will also help build customer confidence that their mechanic is
looking out for their safety.

    "Contrary to what most drivers might think, shocks are more of a safety
item than a comfort item," says Harvey Diedrich, vice president of
marketing/North American Aftermarket for Tenneco Automotive.  "Installers know
that properly working shocks provide better tire-to-road contact, especially
when people are driving in adverse weather conditions, or over potholes.  The
selling point to customers is that an upgrade to premium shocks equals
'premium' safety."

    The following tips may help installers communicate the benefits of premium
shocks:

     -- Explain how a premium shock provides more longevity and increased
        control when compared to its value-priced counterpart.
     -- Emphasize that premium shocks, though they may cost a little more, are
        actually an investment in safety.
     -- Remind customers that it's a good idea to have an ASE-certified
        mechanic inspect a vehicle's shocks every year, or 12,000 miles.
     -- Tell customers about "The Safety Triangle" -- the crucial link between
        a vehicle's shocks, brakes and tires.  Each component of The Safety
        Triangle is equally important because they work together to help keep
        a vehicle's tires in contact with the road.  Stress the importance of
        regular yearly checks to keep all three components in top working
        condition.

    The design and technology used by Tenneco engineers sets Monroe Reflex and
Sensa-Trac apart from value-priced shocks, notes Diedrich.  "Monroe Reflex
shocks use 'Impact Sensor Technology' to create more valve activity when
driving on uneven road surfaces, and Monroe Sensa-Trac shocks use
'The Safe-Tech System' to improve rod response through a tight
piston-to-cylinder seal," he adds.

    Engineers at Tenneco Automotive recommend Monroe Reflex shocks to drivers
looking for additional ride control without sacrificing comfort.  Monroe
Sensa-Trac shocks offer legendary comfort and enhanced control, even with
changing road conditions.