This week’s roundup covers Ford recalls, a GM brake investigation, rising used-car costs and insurance prices. California drivers are also seeing higher gasoline prices in the latest federal data.
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Ford recalls 2026 Maverick, F-150 and Bronco Sport vehicles
Ford is recalling certain 2026 Maverick, F-150 and Bronco Sport vehicles because some vehicle joints may be improperly tightened. Ford says the issue can lead to detached parts, unsecured cargo, degraded crash protection, electrical failure or a loss of vehicle stability; owner letters are expected September 21, 2026.
The Car Dogs take: Check your VIN for Ford recall 26S60 and schedule the free dealer repair if your vehicle is included.
NHTSA expands GM eBoost brake investigation to 1.16 million vehicles
NHTSA opened Engineering Analysis EA26006 on August 21 covering an estimated 1,164,820 General Motors vehicles with eBoost braking systems. The agency lists 745 incidents, including 22 crashes or fires and six injuries, but has not announced a recall for all vehicles in the investigation.
The Car Dogs take: Watch for NHTSA or GM notices and have braking or steering-assist warning messages checked promptly.
Average price of a 3-year-old used car reaches $32,461
The average price of a 3-year-old used car rose to $32,461 in the second quarter of 2026, according to Edmunds data cited by Consumer Reports. Cox Automotive reported an overall average used-car listing price of $27,028 in July 2026.
The Car Dogs take: Set a firm out-the-door budget and compare older, well-maintained options before shopping for a used car.
Average U.S. auto insurance cost is $1,084 for six months
The average U.S. driver pays $1,084 for six months of car insurance coverage, or about $181 per month, according to January 2026 data from The Zebra cited by CNBC. The same source reported an average six-month policy cost of $2,846 for a driver with a teen on the policy.
The Car Dogs take: Compare coverage quotes before renewal, especially if your household is adding a teen driver.
California regular gasoline average rises to $5.45 a gallon
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported California regular gasoline at $5.450 per gallon on August 24, 2026. That was up $0.053 from the prior week and $1.098 higher than a year earlier.
The Car Dogs take: Track local pump prices and combine errands when possible to reduce fuel use.
