"This is a critical thing in most people's lives, right? Besides their house, this is the most expensive thing that an American will buy," said Justin Rzepka.

Owning a car has plenty of benefits but also carries significant responsibilities. Keeping a car in good shape requires allocating funds toward routine car maintenance, as well as unexpected repairs.

Tariffs are driving up prices, but that’s only part of the story — aging cars, complex technology, and a worker shortage are all fueling record repair bills. Repair costs are climbing at record speed.

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