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Latest / Wages and Prices with Fexingo: Cost of Living, Pay Raises, and Workers' Purchasing Power

Why Your Raise Is Finally Beating Car Repair Costs

In Episode 62 of Wages and Prices, Lucas and Luna unpack a quiet but significant shift: for the first time in years, wage growth is outpacing the cost of vehicle repairs and maintenance. Using new May 2026 data showing average hourly earnings at $37.50 and the latest CPI breakdown, the hosts explain why your paycheck is winning against transmission replacements and oil changes—and why mechanics are still charging more than ever for parts. They explore how chip shortages, used-car demand, and a shift to electric vehicles have reshaped the repair market, and what it means for your wallet. A…

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