AutoZone to Provide Free Diagnosis: Launches 'Check-Engine Light' Program

MEMPHIS, Tenn., May 7 / Drivers now have one less reason to be in the dark when it comes to a glowing check-engine light. AutoZone, the nation's leading specialty auto parts retailer, today launched a "Check-Engine Light" program at all of its 3,037 stores nationwide, offering free diagnosis of what's causing customers' engine warning lights to come on -- an estimated 20 million vehicles on any given day.

The purpose of the "check-engine light" is to signal something is malfunctioning with the vehicle's engine or emissions systems. The vehicle's on-board computer identifies the problem and now consumers can access that computer information free by simply stopping by any AutoZone location.

As part of AutoZone's initiative to empower consumers to take on vehicle maintenance and repair, the Company trained "AutoZoners" in every store to administer the diagnostics test. AutoZone's "Check-Engine Light" program debuts with a national radio advertising campaign.

Commenting on the launch of this program, Steve Odland, AutoZone's Chairman, President and CEO, said, "Industry research has identified $60 billion in necessary maintenance that goes unperformed on cars, SUVs and light trucks each year, which reduces safety, reduces vehicle life and increases emissions. AutoZone is committed to helping our customers to drive better maintained and safer vehicles, and this free service is another example of how we help our customers to make sure their vehicles are performing properly."

"Research indicates many consumers are mystified when the check engine light comes on and many just simply choose to ignore it," Odland said. "They are afraid it indicates big problems and big repair costs. While some problems may be complex and require the assistance of a professional installer, there are also many relatively simple and inexpensive reasons why the check-engine light is on. "

"Knowledge is power and this program gives our customers the vital information to make sure their vehicles are performing properly," Odland said. "At AutoZone, our goal is to help customers gain a greater understanding and control of their vehicle maintenance needs."

About AutoZone

As of Feb. 9, 2002, AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts, chemicals and accessories through 3,037 AutoZone stores in 44 states plus the District of Columbia in the U.S. and 23 AutoZone stores in Mexico, and automotive diagnostic and repair software through ALLDATA, diagnostic and repair information through alldatadiy.com, and auto and light truck parts through AutoZone.com. AutoZone stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange and is included in the Standard & Poor's 500 Index.

Editors Last Line:Sounds like a great service to drivers...lets all check it out and let me know what's happening.

bgordon@tach.com