According to my uncle, business is great!
But he's just a small business owner, so I wouldn't claim it represents an industry trend. Do you know something I don't?
Comparing prices then and now? Compare alternators, or mufflers too, for that matter. Tires (though they are lasting longer, I find). Jeez, everything. I used to be able to have a fender-bender without pawning the family jewels.
