Drivers Love Their Vehicles

Media Contact

Jennifer Friedmann
jennifer.friedmann@shell.com

HOUSTON, February 14, 2008 - As Americans celebrate their love for one another this Valentine's Day, a national survey commissioned by Jiffy Lube International reveals the relationship between driver and vehicle is more similar to that between loved ones than expected.

"Thanks for being you"

In an effort to keep their relationships strong, the survey unveils drivers are not shy about expressing their gratitude toward their vehicle for being such a great partner. Forty-eight percent of women and 44 percent of men said they've thanked their vehicle under various circumstances. More specifically, 37 percent of men and 30 percent of women have complimented their cars on their dependability; 27 percent of men and 25 percent of women have praised their vehicles for their appearance; and 30 percent of men and 27 percent of women have complimented their vehicle for performance and handling.

Public Displays of Affection

Today, couples across the country will display public displays of affection. As loved ones exchange hugs and kisses today, many drivers admit they also extend a little tender, loving care to their vehicles. 20 percent of women and 14 percent of men admitting they have given a nice rub to the dashboard or some other sweet spot.

"I'm sorry, so sorry."

The survey also showed people aren't above apologizing to their vehicle to get out of the dog house. Twenty-eight percent of women and 24 percent of men said they've expressed their regrets for a run-in with a pothole, speed bump, curb or for other driving faux pas.

"Pretty please?"

Just as dependability is critical in relationships, drivers depend heavily on their vehicles for their daily travel needs. However, when things get a bit bumpy, many admit to pleading and gift-giving to get their way. Thirty-two percent of women and 30 percent of men surveyed said they've tried to verbally coax their vehicle to start, speed up, not stall out, stop making a noise and similar pleads. Some went the bribery route, with 20 percent of men and 14 percent of women offering their vehicles rewards such as premium gasoline or a carwash. Taking a more aggressive tack, 20 percent of men and 17 percent of women have resorted to threatening or yelling at their automobiles to pressure them into behaving.

Show your car you really do care

"Valentine's Day is about showing affection for our loved ones, but we shouldn't forget to also think about our vehicles," said Lisa Carlson, global director of marketing for Jiffy Lube International. "For most of us, our vehicles are far more than just another line-item on our list of assets. They are so integral to our daily lives because we constantly count on them to safely and dependably get us where we need to be. They deserve affection and attention too."

The survey results reinforce the strong relationship between driver and vehicle, but drivers don't need to present a ring to show their commitment to the relationship. The best way for drivers to ensure their 'partner' continues to perform is to follow a sound preventive maintenance plan The car care experts at Jiffy Lube can help give vehicles the love they need before a potentially costly breakdown. To find a nearby Jiffy Lube service center, visit www.jiffylube.com.

An Opinion Research Corporation CARAVAN® omnibus study was conducted by telephone among a representative national sample of 509 men and 507 women, ages 18 and older. Data were collected from April 19 - April 22, 2007. The survey has a (3.2 %) margin of error.

About Jiffy Lube

Jiffy Lube, with more than 2,200 service centers in North America, serves approximately 27.5 million customers each year. Jiffy Lube pioneered the fast oil change industry in 1979 by establishing the first drive-through service bay, providing customers with fast, professional service for their vehicles. Headquartered in Houston, Jiffy Lube International is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Shell Oil Company. Visit www.JiffyLube.com to learn more about Jiffy Lube and vehicle care.