This post is part of a series chronicling news coverage of rising prices in the United States. See more here.
WUSA9 in Washington, DC, reports on inflation, surging gas prices squeezing drivers
WUSA9: The war on Iran “could crunch supply of some of the most popular kinds of motor oil”
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From a May 20, 2026, video uploaded to the YouTube channel of WUSA9
LORENZO HALL (ANCHOR): Gas isn't the only cost squeezing drivers right now. Karin Caifa found owning and maintaining a car is taking a greater toll on our budget.
KARIN CAIFA (CNN NEWSOURCE REPORTER): Beyond skyrocketing gas prices due to the war in Iran, the cost of car ownership is consuming a growing share of household budgets. Recent analysis by LendingTree found loan payments are the greatest burden, followed by insurance, gas, and maintenance.
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CAIFA: April government inflation data showed a 28.4% increase in gasoline prices year-over-year, but also a 4% climb in tire prices, and a just over 5% jump for motor vehicle repair. Meanwhile, LendingTree finds insurance costs have surged 37.5% since 2021.
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CAIFA: And there are concerns that the war in Iran could spark another shortage for drivers. The shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to Middle East facilities could crunch supply of some of the most popular kinds of motor oil.