Drive Radio

Why does fixing your car seem so expensive, and is repair truly a better value than buying new? In this episode, John Rush pulls back the curtain on the true cost of auto repair, drawing on decades of industry experience. Listeners will discover how understanding what’s behind each repair bill can help them make smarter choices about maintaining or replacing their vehicle. From oil changes that aren’t “cheap” anymore to labor rates that include more than just wrench time, John explains what actually goes into every repair bill. What are non-billable hours, and why do they matter? Why can’t a reputable shop quote you a price over the phone? And how do insurance requirements, training, certifications, and a growing technician shortage drive prices higher—often out of customers' sight? John also tackles parts quality, warranties, and why OEMs are really assemblers relying on vast supply chains. With new cars averaging around $55,000, John walks through the math of cost per mile and explains why many drivers ar