5 On Your Side
Pick best oven for excellent outdoor, homemade pizza

Creating the perfect pizza at home requires skill and the right tools, especially when it comes to outdoor pizza ovens that can elevate your cooking experience. Recent tests by Consumer Reports reveal valuable insights into which pizza ovens are the best investment for quality results.

Legal challenges, differing timelines spur confusion for federal student loan borrowers

July 1, loan service providers started the process of reaching out to borrowers to start their 90-day deadline to switch from the SAVE repayment plan. However, everyone's timeline won't be same.

Falling gas prices help ease inflation in June, data centers driving up tech costs

Economists predict today's report will likely show a small decrease in inflation after last month's ceasefire with Iran.

Are home warranties worth it? 5 On Your Side explains

A broken appliance or a major home system can get expensive fast. A home warranty may help cover repair costs, but Consumer Reports says these plans may not protect as much as many homeowners expect. Before buying a policy, it’s important to understand what’s covered, and what isn’t.

Falling gas prices likely cut inflation last month, data centers driving up tech costs

Economists predict today's report will likely show a small decrease in inflation after last month's ceasefire with Iran.

Summer speakers: Consumer Reports' best portable sound for the beach, pool and cookout

Whether it’s music, podcasts, or your favorite beach-day mix, Consumer Reports says the best portable speakers combine good sound with durability and easy portability.

Consumer Reports investigates: How AI chooses your ride share price

Consumer Reports investigates how ride share companies like Uber and Lyft have different prices for the same ride. The answer: AI algorithms decide the pricing, and it is best to compare companies before booking your ride.

Restaurant Ratings: Fuller's BBQ, Bralie's Sports Bar and China Garden

In this week's restaurant ratings report, Keely Arthur from 5 On Your Side highlights serious health violations in local eateries.

Costco faces lawsuit for heavy metals in protein powder

Costco is facing legal action after allegations emerged that its Orgain Organic plant-based protein powder contains dangerously high levels of toxic metals.

Outlet shopping: The hidden truth behind discounts

Many families flock to outlet malls for perceived savings, but the true value of shopping at these stores is often questioned. Fashion expert Jennifer Barger from Consumer's Checkbook conducted extensive research on products from various outlet stores, comparing them to those in main retail stores.

Kia launches new recall for 463,000 Telluride SUVs due to fire risk, urges owners to park outside
Kia launches new recall for 463,000 Telluride SUVs due to fire risk, urges owners to park outside

Kia America has issued a new recall for nearly 463,000 of its Telluride SUVs, urging owners to again park their vehicles outside and away from buildings after several customers reported fires following previous repairs. The recall, announced this week by the National Highway Traffic Safety Admini...

Costco faces lawsuit alleging heavy metals in plant-based protein powder

Costco is being sued after being accused of selling protein powders with high levels of toxic metals.

Gas prices begin to spike again as Iran war intensifies

Gas prices have been rising steadily as the war with Iran intensifies, jumping another 5 cents overnight and 12 cents over the past two days.

American Airlines, RDU share insight into hour-long tarmac delays

Passengers said they sat on the tarmac at RDU for hours Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday as storms moved through the area. 5 On Your Side reached out to American Airlines and the airport for answers.

NC Attorney General pushes for further federal crackdown on illegal robocalls

The North Carolina Department of Justice says unused phone numbers are behind billions of scam calls each year and account for approximately $2 billion in losses.

Recall: Frozen blueberries sold at Publix could be contaminated with E. coli
Recall: Frozen blueberries sold at Publix could be contaminated with E. coli

Publix is recalling bags of frozen blueberries sold under the GreenWise brand that may be contaminated with E. coli.

Scammers use these 4 stages to manipulate victims, expert says

Whether it's a romance scam, or financial fraud, an expert explains how scammers are trained to use psychological manipulation to get what they want from their victims. This happened to a Fuquay-Varina man who lost hundreds of thousands and is still hoping to see some of it recovered.

Saving for retirement: 5 On Your Side has how to stay ahead

The ideal size of a retirement nest egg has surged since last year, with more Americans now fearing they will outlive their money. 5 On Your Side shares what you should do right now to stay ahead.

July deals for America's 250th birthday, celebrating the biggest sales of the summer
July deals for America's 250th birthday, celebrating the biggest sales of the summer

July offers plenty of opportunities to save on everything from appliances to outdoor gear.

5 On Your Side: Beware high levels of additives in popular snacks and drinks, investigation finds

A new Consumer Reports investigation found concerning levels of certain additives and contaminants in some widely-sold foods and drinks.

Utz potato chips recalled for salmonella concerns now a Class I recall, the FDA's highest level
Utz potato chips recalled for salmonella concerns now a Class I recall, the FDA's highest level

Utz Quality Foods, LLC has issued a voluntary recall for some of their limited varieties of Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips.

Safe summer picnic tips
Safe summer picnic tips

More people get food poisoning in the summer than at any other time. Consumer Reports has a few tips for having a safe summer picnic.

How much water do you actually need?
How much water do you actually need?

Most people have heard the rule to drink eight glasses of water a day. While water is essential, Consumer Reports shares other effective ways to keep your body hydrated.

Car safety alert: Preventing hot car fatalities
Car safety alert: Preventing hot car fatalities

A hot car is one of the most dangerous places to leave a child. Consumer Reports talks safety tips for everyday life to prevent heatstroke deaths in vehicles.

Car safety alert: Preventing hot car fatalities
Car safety alert: Preventing hot car fatalities

A hot car is one of the most dangerous places to leave a child. Consumer Reports talks safety tips for everyday life to prevent heatstroke deaths in vehicles.

These steps help kids enjoy summer's sun and swimming safely

Taking a few preventive steps now can help families spend less time worrying and more time enjoying everything summer has to offer.

Energy-efficient tips for saving money on your summer electric bill
Energy-efficient tips for saving money on your summer electric bill

It's been a hot summer in North Carolina, so your energy bill will increase -- making it even more important to make some of these cool, cost-saving changes.

Company building automated garage in Raleigh in 'advanced' talks for driverless projects elsewhere

For the first time, the technology company bringing an automated parking deck to North Carolina's Capital City is expanding its involvement with driverless car companies, saying they're targeting garages specifically for autonomous vehicles in three cities.

Duke Energy expects increase in power usage but doesn't expect disruptions during heat wave

Duke Energy says it’s prepared for this week’s heat wave but warns customers could see higher bills if they don’t make changes to reduce energy use.

Cost of Independence Day celebrations reach highest in history
Cost of Independence Day celebrations reach highest in history

The cost of Fourth of July celebrations have increased this year, creating a record-high bill for the holiday.

5 On Your Side June 2026 Recall Report

Several recalls you may have missed over the last few weeks. 5 On Your Side shares the items you need to get rid of.

Beat the heat: 5 On Your Side puts the top AC units to the test in extreme heat

As the summer heat settles in, air conditioners are working overtime. Before you crank the thermostat down or invest in a new unit…5 On Your Side's Keely Arthur shares the common mistakes that could be costing you money and comfort.

Younger couples more likely to keep finances separate. Can it build stronger relationships?

Recent research found a majority of couples do not regularly talk about long-term finances, even though more than 40 percent of couples wish they did.

Cool your home, lower your energy bill

Millions of Americans are dealing with scorching temperatures. Few things you can do so you don't have to "sweat" your energy bill.

Over 96,000 Hyundai vehicles recalled over instrument panel error
Over 96,000 Hyundai vehicles recalled over instrument panel error

Over 96,000 Hyundai vehicles have been recalled because of a software issue that may cause the instrument panel display to fail.

North Carolina couples question oversight after high-profile wedding vendor failures

After a series of high-profile disputes left North Carolina couples out thousands of dollars, questions are growing about whether the industry needs more accountability.

Wedding scams: 5 On Your Side highlights red flags to watch

While most wedding professionals are reputable, here's what couples should watch for before signing contracts or handing over money.

Thousands of NC student loan borrowers face big changes. What to know as federal loan repayment ends

Approximately a quarter million North Carolinians face significant financial decisions beginning in one week with the federal SAVE student loan repayment plan sunsetting by summer's end.

Durham woman’s electric bill paid off after 5 On Your Side viewer steps in

A Durham woman struggling to keep up with her electric bill received an unexpected gift after her story aired on WRAL News.

Fuquay-Varina man scammed out of $700,000 awaits any return of his money

A Fuquay-Varina man who lost his savings in what's called a pig-butchering scam is warning others what to look out for so they don't become victims in what experts say is a very convincing scheme.

5 On Your Side: Wash your new clothes before you wear them

Buying new clothes can feel great — and it’s tempting to wear them right away. But before you put on that new sweater, shirt, or baby outfit straight from the store, Consumer Reports says you should wash it first.

Back-to-school costs are coming - NC is asking for help now

Governor Josh Stein announced the start of the annual state-wide school supplies donation program. Community members can find the tall blue boxes at some state agency buildings and all State Employees Credit Union locations through the end of July.

Beware of scams during Amazon Prime Days

As Amazon Prime Days approach, consumers need to be vigilant against scams. The increase in online shopping, especially during major sales events like Prime Day, makes it easier for scammers to target unsuspecting shoppers. A study by McAfee revealed that 40% of shoppers would trust a lower-priced

Father's Day, Prime Day to bring record spending. Here's how to shop smart, and avoid scams

Nearly $30 billion dollars will be spent for Father's Day, as online purchasing comes in as North Carolina's most frequent scam type.

The age of AI: beat AI resume screeners

Job seekers face challenges with resume screening as more companies rely on AI software to sort applications. Learn how to stand out.

Father's Day spending: finding the perfect gift for dad

With Father's Day approaching this Sunday, shoppers still have time to find the perfect gift for their dads.

5 On Your Side: How to reduce screen time and stay off your phone

A recent survey shows that Americans pick up their phones nearly 200 times a day on average and spend more than four hours a day on them. Nearly half of those people feel addicted.

Trump said Americans' finances don't motivate him in Iran talks. How are people doing economically?

President Donald Trump’s recent answer to a question about how Americans are faring economically sparked claims of callousness.

DMV wait times down 87% in North Carolina, Gov. Stein says
DMV wait times down 87% in North Carolina, Gov. Stein says

Governor Josh Stein is encouraging residents to take advantage of new tools and services at the DMV designed to reduce wait times and, in some cases, eliminate the need for an office visit altogether.

What are ticket bots? How is AI making it easier for them to snatch up tickets from real fans?

North Carolina fans reported long online queues and inflated prices for Hurricanes games as the team faces off for the Stanley Cup. One of the big questions is whether bots are at all to blame.