Uncover the Hidden Stories in These Compelling TV Shows
The Listeners - Unraveling the Mystery of the Humming
Rebecca Hall's character, Claire, is a teacher, wife, and mother who one night discovers a low-level humming noise that refuses to go away. It's not tinnitus, and the doctors are stumped, leaving her feeling isolated and acting strangely towards her family. Her student Kyle also hears "the Hum", and together they set out to find the source. This mystery keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats as they wonder what and who they will encounter along the way. There's a sense of anticipation and curiosity that permeates every scene, making this drama a must-watch.The doctors' inability to provide a solution only adds to Claire's sense of isolation. She starts to withdraw from her family, and her behavior becomes increasingly odd. But with Kyle by her side, they are determined to get to the bottom of this mystery. The humming becomes a symbol of the unknown, and their quest to solve it becomes a journey of self-discovery for both of them.Mary’s Foolproof Dinners - Cooking with a Twist
Sue Perkins and Mary's collaboration in the kitchen is a sight to behold. Despite Mary's love for "silly, frou-frou things", they don't follow recipes blindly. Instead, they bring their own creativity and expertise to the table. The chimichurri pork and rhubarb pie they prepare are not your typical dishes, but they are sure to tantalize the taste buds.This show highlights the joy and freedom of cooking without restrictions. It shows that cooking can be an art form, and that with a little imagination and a lot of passion, anyone can create delicious meals. Sue and Mary's chemistry in the kitchen is infectious, and viewers will find themselves inspired to try new things in the kitchen.The Great British Bake Off - Baking to Perfection
The semi-final stage of the baking contest is in full swing, and the menu features patisserie. The signature challenge involves breakfast pastries, which require precision and creativity. The technical challenge is equally challenging, testing the bakers' skills and abilities. And the showstopper is a fruit entremet, which must be both visually stunning and delicious.Each baker brings their own unique style and approach to the baking, making this competition a true test of their skills. The judges provide valuable feedback and guidance, helping the bakers improve and reach their full potential. Viewers get to see the behind-the-scenes of the baking process and learn about the different techniques and ingredients used.Ben Fogle: New Lives in the Wild - Returning to Nature
Ben Fogle returns to the woods outside Bury St Edmunds, where he had a life-changing experience in 2022. He travels back to a time before the bronze age in the company of Will Lord. The face paint and campfire bring back memories of that time, and viewers are curious to see if it will be as vivid and warm as before.This show offers a glimpse into the beauty and simplicity of nature. Ben's connection with the wild is palpable, and he shares his experiences and insights with viewers. It's a reminder of the importance of nature and our connection to it.The Day of the Jackal - The Thrilling Chase
Eddie Redmayne stars as the titular assassin in this thrilling drama. After his shootout with Lashana Lynch's Bianca, he must escape his captors and regroup before his next hit. Bianca is hot on his trail, adding to the tension and excitement.The story is filled with twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Eddie Redmayne's performance is captivating, and he brings the character of the Jackal to life. The chase scenes are intense and action-packed, making this a must-see for thriller fans.Cheaters - The Complicated Affair
The comedy "Cheaters" continues to explore the complex world of affairs. Fola and Josh are now a couple, but their exes are still very much a part of their lives. Esther's return adds another layer of complexity to their relationship.This show doesn't shy away from the challenges and emotions that come with an affair. It shows the ups and downs of a relationship that started in secrecy and how the exes can still have an impact. The characters are relatable, and viewers will find themselves rooting for them as they navigate this complicated situation.Agent of Happiness - Discovering Happiness in Bhutan
In "Agent of Happiness", Amber Kumar Gurung is tasked with surveying gross national happiness in Bhutan. As he interviews people and follows their lives, we get a fascinating glimpse into the diverse experiences of the people.From a trans performer to the daughter of an alcoholic single mother and a man with three wives, Gurung's journey shows the complexity and beauty of Bhutanese society. Despite the initial expectation of happiness, a mood of sadness persists, adding depth to the story.This documentary is a reminder that happiness is not always what it seems and that there is more to life than meets the eye. It offers a unique perspective on happiness and the importance of connection and community.Highlight: Santa Lights up Bartow Main Street
The grand arrival of Santa Claus was the highlight of the evening. He brought an air of excitement as he lit up the Main Street Square. Accompanied by his merry elves, Santa met with children who eagerly lined up for a special meet-and-greet. With wish lists in hand and cameras ready, both the young and the young at heart shared their holiday dreams with the jolly old man.The local talents truly stole the show. Students from BEA, Dream Dance Studio, Wendy's Dance Company, Bartow Middle School, Union Academy, and Legacy Dance Studio, along with DJ Darrell, presented stunning performances. They delivered enchanting renditions of Christmas carols and energetic dance routines that kept the crowd entertained throughout the evening.For car enthusiasts and those who simply appreciate beautiful vehicles, the Festive Car Show was a standout attraction. Main Street was adorned with a magnificent display of classic cars and holiday-decorated vehicles, adding an extra touch of sparkle to the night.Guests were treated to a wide variety of food and drink from street vendors and local restaurants. There was something delicious for everyone, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The downtown retail stores remained open late, providing the perfect opportunity for Christmas shopping and finding unique gifts for loved ones.Magic on Main Friday Fest was an unqualified success. It brought the community together for an evening filled with holiday spirit, laughter, and festive cheer. This event truly marked a magical start to the holiday season in Bartow, Florida.The energy and enthusiasm on Main Street that evening were palpable. It was a celebration of the holiday season, where people of all ages came together to enjoy the festivities. The performances, the car show, and the shopping all contributed to an unforgettable experience. Bartow truly came alive with the magic of the holiday season.This event not only entertained but also strengthened the sense of community in Bartow. It showed that when people come together, great things can happen. The Magic on Main Friday Fest will be remembered as a milestone in Bartow's holiday traditions, and it is sure to be an annual event that everyone looks forward to.Navigating the Expenses of Vehicle Ownership
Annual Costs of Owning a New Car
According to AAA, owning and operating a new car costs around $12,300 annually. This figure includes expenses such as fuel, maintenance, repair, tires, insurance, license, registration, and taxes. Depreciation and loan interest are the two most significant expenses, and they increase in line with the rising costs of manufacturers' suggested retail prices (MSRPs). In 2024, the average sales-weighted new vehicle MSRP is $38,883, up 0.7% from 2023. Depreciation costs car owners $4,680 annually on average, while the average annual finance charge increased by 6% to $1,332. New- and used-vehicle loan terms average 68.48 and 67.41 months, respectively, resulting in average monthly payments of $734 for new cars and $525 for used cars.
When comparing repair costs across manufacturers, Porsche ($1,192), Land Rover ($1,174), and Jaguar ($1,123) are the most expensive to repair annually. On the other hand, Oldsmobile repairs only cost an average of $311 per year. Hybrids rank second for the lowest car ownership costs, while electric vehicles (EVs) have the second-highest average total ownership costs. Pick-up trucks cost the most per mile at $1.10, while medium sedans and compact SUVs cost the least at 70 cents and 71 cents per mile, respectively.
The Most Common Car Repairs and Maintenance Tasks
The most common car repairs and replacements range from $164 to $193 for an alignment and $1,103 to $1,212 for a fuel pump replacement. Kelley Blue Book breaks down these common costs as follows:
Fuel pump replacement: $1,093–$1,212Fuel injector replacement: $1,103–$1,226Power steering pump replacement: $837–$936Alternator replacement: $747–$842Starter replacement: $728–$820Thermostat replacement: $661–$747Brake pad and rotor replacement: $533–$612Mass air flow sensor replacement: $452–$524Spark plug replacement: $356–$417Evaporative emissions (EVAP) purge control valve replacement: $323–$380Tire pressure monitoring sensor replacement: $314–$368Alignment: $164–$193
Final costs vary depending on the replacement materials chosen and whether the work is done by a professional or DIY. For example, Honda's "No Start" due to ignition switch failure is one of its top three most prevalent problems, with repair costs ranging from $148 to $193 in parts and labor or $74 to $100 if done by the owner.
Unexpected Car Repairs
Despite preventive maintenance efforts, unexpected car repairs can still occur. This can include losing or breaking a smart key, a headlight burning out, or spilling a drink on the car's digital display. More serious and expensive unanticipated repairs include replacing a body panel or a plug-in hybrid battery. The National Motorists Association suggests reviewing emergency funds, financing options, and mechanical aptitude to decide how to cover unexpected car repairs. Establishing a rainy-day fund can help offset costs, and if the emergency savings are depleted, exploring financing or payment plans is an alternative. DIY work can also save money, but it requires knowledge and skills.
Maintenance and Car Repair Costs over Time
In one decade, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for All Urban Consumers specific to Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair rose from 268.9 (January 2015) to 396 (January 2024), representing a 47.3% increase. Compared to 2015, the average cost of car ownership in 2024 reflects increased maintenance and repair expenses. In 2015, the average cost to own and operate a car was $8,698, which is $3,599 less than in 2024. Adjusted for inflation, the 2015 average is about $800 less than the 2024 average. Depreciation ($3,654), fuel ($1,681.50), and insurance ($1,115) were the three highest expenses in 2015, while car maintenance cost an average of $766.50.
Auto Warranties vs. Auto Insurance
Auto insurance and auto warranties have different coverage applications, terms, and limitations. Auto insurance kicks in when an event covered by the policy occurs, such as a car accident. Auto warranties, on the other hand, pay for repairing or replacing components due to recalls, defects, or normal wear and tear. Drivers are not required by law to obtain a car warranty, but manufacturers often offer factory warranty coverage for up to three years. Extended warranties are also available from manufacturers, dealerships, and third-party vendors and offer additional coverage. Auto warranties and auto insurance exclude routine maintenance tasks.
Auto insurance typically renews every six to 12 months and includes coverage types such as bodily injury, property damage, comprehensive, and collision. These coverages pay for costs associated with a car accident or damage to the parked vehicle, up to the limits of the premium. Auto insurance also pays to repair or replace the vehicle if it is stolen.
How to Choose a Car Warranty
Factory or manufacturer's warranties are available for new cars, while extended warranties are for used cars after the factory warranty expires. When choosing a car warranty, consider the following tips:
Align warranty coverage options with the components or repair costs you're most concerned about. Focus on powertrain warranties if you want coverage for a new engine or transmission.Compare quotes across warranty providers to ensure the best value, paying attention to term and mileage limits.When requesting quotes and interacting with warranty service providers, notice their customer service and how easy it is to get information.Be cautious of non-legitimate extended warranty providers. Read customer reviews and the company's Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile before adding a warranty to your shortlist.
How to Choose a Car Insurance Policy
First-time car insurance buyers may be shocked by the premiums. Providers consider factors such as age, gender, driving record, and credit score. The car's make and model, as well as the selected coverage limits and deductibles, also impact the cost. When comparing quotes, consider the minimum required auto insurance set by the state government. If the car is financed, the lender may require additional coverage. Tailor coverage to the vehicle's age and condition and explore available discounts such as military, student, and good driver discounts.
How to Save Money on Repairs
Saving money on repairs can reduce annual car repair and maintenance costs. If you're mechanically inclined, doing your own repairs avoids labor costs. Connecting with other owners of the same vehicle can also enhance your knowledge of required repairs. Preventive maintenance is crucial for keeping the car on the road longer and includes tasks such as maintaining fluid levels, swapping air filters, replacing wiper blades, inspecting and replacing brake pads and rotors, and checking tire pressure and tread wear.
Infrequent car maintenance tasks include replacing drive belts, spark plugs, water pumps, and timing chains/belts. Test the battery and replace it if it no longer holds a charge. Schedule an alignment annually to ensure the longevity of the vehicle's suspension components.
Finding a Trustworthy Mechanic
When looking for a local mechanic, look for shops with Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)-certified technicians. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence vets technicians and certifies them as certified master automobile technicians. Review other recognitions and awards a repair shop has received and consider the guarantees they offer on their work.
Staying Informed about Car Repair Costs
Obtaining detailed repair cost quotes from a trusted mechanic can help you understand how repair fees are broken down into parts and labor costs. RepairPal certifies local shops nationwide to connect car owners with trustworthy experts. Look up your make and model to learn about common repairs and issues. Community discussions on social media, Reddit, and online forums can also provide valuable insights.
Learning Which Repairs and Maintenance Tasks to DIY
Completing auto repairs and upkeep DIY can save money and time. DIY tasks such as battery swap, brake pad and rotor replacement, air filter change, coolant exchange, drive belt replacement, oil change, and windshield wiper blade replacement are relatively easy and can be done in the comfort of your own garage. However, balance cost savings with your confidence in completing the job successfully. If you're not comfortable, it's better to pay a professional to avoid additional repairs and higher bills.
What's Next?
The $12,297 Americans spend annually on vehicle ownership includes various expenses. By purchasing auto warranty coverage, finding a trustworthy mechanic, researching common repairs, and doing some maintenance DIY, car owners can offset repair and maintenance costs. These practices help build responsible car ownership habits and prepare for future vehicle purchases.