More customers are showing up at repair shops

San Diego Union Tribune reports:

Auto repair shops say they're busier than ever, and auto parts companies such as AutoZone, which caters to do-it-yourself consumers and repair centers, are seeing sales spike as people look to extend the life of their cars. In its most recent quarter, AutoZone said earnings grew by 9.5 percent from the previous year.

“We're breaking records here,” said Mike Anders, who works at Smitty's Service, a car repair shop in Normal Heights. “It used to be '$1,500 for a repair? (Forget) it. I'll sell it and get a new one.' Now, it's '$1,500? Do it.' ”

Even appliance repair shops, once thought of as a nostalgic throwback, are seeing an uptick in business as customers' attitudes have changed.