Automotive

Oil changes cost $35-$125 in 2026. Conventional $35-$75, synthetic $65-$125. Upsell scams, DIY math, interval truth, warranty law explained.

Wheel alignment: $75-$200 in 2026. 2-wheel $50-$100, 4-wheel $100-$200. Tire wear diagnosis, when you do NOT need one, and how to read the printout.

Transmission repair: $150 fluid service to $8,000 replacement in 2026. Rebuilds $2,500-$3,500. Rebuild vs replace decision, warning signs, and scams.

Brake pads: $150-$300/axle pads only, $300-$600 with rotors. Full 4-wheel $600-$1,200. Pad types, when rotors are needed, warning signs, and common upsells.

How long a wheel alignment takes at different shops, what affects the time, and whether the cost is worth it.