Shifting Gears (2024)

[bunniefuu]

(upbeat music)

Sweet sugar honey bunny

You can't buy my love

with your money

Work on the bird,

y'all the devil's work

I ain't got time for

that, ain't you heard

And he my man

He my man

Don't you understand

Don't you understand

Oh, he my man

He my man

Don't you understand

Don't you understand

Oh, the rooftop in

the chicken shack

And I don't ever

want him back

He's a hustler

(upbeat music continues)

(upbeat music)

(motorcycle rumbling)

- Need some help?

- Yeah, please.

My boss is on his way,

but I have no idea

what I'm looking at here.

- Yeah, that's all right.

I dabble.

- You fix cars?

I wouldn't have guessed that.

- Yeah.

Don't let this suit fool you.

I only wear it 'cause I have to.

All right, let's have a look.

- [Driver] It started smoking

right before I pulled over.

- [Luke] How long

you been out here?

- [Driver] Too long.

- Look, I think you might

have a bad radiator hose.

It happens with

these old trucks.

Now look, this is a

temporary fix, okay?

So you, your boss, whoever,

you guys gotta go in and get

this thing properly checked out

when you get a chance,

all right?

- Hey, how much should I

tell my boss this cost?

- Don't worry about it.

Feel free to come

by anytime, okay?

We'll get you all sorted.

- Appreciate it, man.

- Happy to help.

(motorcycle rumbling)

- Too pretty.

Ooh, too many issues.

Oh, now you have potential.

- Wait. Do not ruin this

moment of me thinking

that you're finally

on a dating app.

- But this one

could complete me.

Well, come on.

It's a 1954 Chevy Bel Air

with a 3.5 liter V8 engine.

Oh, I think I'm in love.

- Speaking of love,

the guy who got his

car serviced yesterday,

he not-so-subtly

left you his number.

- Which car?

- Oh, just the fact

that you have to

identify him by his car

says more than you know.

- Oh, come.

- Late model Bronco.

- Oh!

- He was cute.

- Not my type.

The car or the guy.

- Jess, you've got to

put yourself out there

and open yourself up to romance.

- I have my job

and I have my cars.

I have my class, which,

ooh, is starting really soon

and I haven't finished prepping.

So see ya.

(upbeat music)

(motorcycle rumbling)

- Good morning.

Hey, Mike.

Thank you.

I know.

Morning.

- [Receptionist] Luke?

- Okay.

- [Receptionist] Your shirt.

- Great.

Okay.

Do you mind?

Thank you.

Okay.

Sorry I'm late.

Yeah, hi, Pete. Good morning.

Morning.

I'm sorry, Dad.

Something came up.

- What's with the shirt?

- Fashion. Young guy thing.

- This was a strategy meeting.

It's kind of essential

that the VP of corporate

strategy be here.

- I planned on being here, Dad.

- You were back under a hood.

- There was a kid.

He was stranded on

the side of the road.

I couldn't just leave him there.

- You're a great kid, Luke,

but you need to stay focused.

You belong here, beside me.

Now, come on.

We need to get

back to my office,

review the sales

figures for the quarter.

- What's that?

Are we looking to

acquire Barro's?

- It's a great location.

That would be a

smart acquisition.

- Are you sure you

wanna do that, Dad,

well, considering the history?

- This is the company's future.

And yours.

Now, come on.

(somber music)

(Jess sighs)

- I heard that.

Keep those nerves in check.

- Is it that obvious?

- You're gonna do great.

What's on the docket today?

- We're gonna start

nice and easy.

I want women to feel comfortable

and confident around their cars.

Like how to change a spark plug.

- Well, I already told Eden

to set side part of her summer

break to take your class.

- Really?

- Yes, of course.

And I can't think

of a better person

to learn from than you.

- Yeah, if only I could

stand up in front of the rest

of the class without

breaking into a cold sweat.

- Yeah, about that.

I was posting on

social media about it.

- What did you do?

- It's good for business.

- Hi there.

Hello.

I'm...

Welcome to Barro's Auto Repair.

I'm Jess Barro.

I'm also the head

auto technician here.

So today we're going

to be talking about

the oh-so-useful,

but often misunderstood

spark plug.

Let's begin.

Eden, these are fantastic.

- You think so?

- Yeah.

No wonder your mom says

you're the star of the class.

- Star? Not yet.

I really wanna get picked

to be the photographer

for the school's

paper next year.

My teacher said this

project's my chance to shine.

- Well, you, my friend,

are radiant.

Make sure your teacher's

wearing shades.

- Thanks. If only had an

idea of what to sh**t.

(horn honks)

- Well, inspiration

is everywhere.

Come on.

Dad, I love it.

Oh, it's beautiful.

- It is?

- With every restoration,

I'm not looking at what is,

I'm looking at what it could be.

So maybe this one says

showroom floor, 1957.

Or hot pink with shag

upholstery and fuzzy dice.

You know, some of

the best ideas come

when you just throw convention

out the window and go for it.

- My daughter's never been one

for sticking to convention.

- Yeah, well, I guess

I was raised right.

(phone buzzing)

- Excuse me. I

have to take this.

- Well, since I am trying

to raise you right,

we better get going.

You're gonna be late for class.

- Okay.

See you later, Jess.

- All right, see you

later, superstar.

Can't wait to see

what you come up with.

- Can we find some

middle ground here?

I'll get back to you.

I've gotta go out

for a little bit.

- Is everything okay?

- Yeah.

I just have to

run a few errands.

- Okay.

I'll hold the fort.

(traffic whooshing)

- I don't know how

to say no to the man.

- Do you know how many people

would jump at the opportunity

to work-

- Suffocate behind a desk?

No. I spend more

time changing typos

than transmissions, man.

- Hey, no one spots an I

before an E like my man Luke.

- Thanks, Pete. I

appreciate that.

You know, my granddad used

to give away oil

changes for free?

I loved that.

I loved working with him

and my dad back then.

It just seemed

like it was small,

but we're doing something

of that mattered, you know?

- Look, in marketing,

the first step

to changing minds is

to find common ground.

Figure out how to talk to your

dad in a way he understands.

Then maybe you can

help him understand

your version of the future.

- Whatever that is.

Anyway, I appreciate it, buddy.

I gotta go.

I got a date tonight.

- Good luck.

- Thank you.

You seen my keys?

- Oh, I'm gonna give

Eden a quick call.

I'll meet you at the bar.

- All right, I'll grab a drink.

- Okay.

- Oh, somebody dropped their...

- Keys.

That would be me.

- Luke.

- It's nice to see you, Jess.

- Fancy.

- Company car.

How are you?

- We don't need to

do the small talk.

- No small talk.

Genuinely asking.

- What are you doing

this side of town?

- I was having a drink

with a friend.

On my way to a date.

You look good.

- You look like you sell bonds.

- I'm gonna choose to

take that as a compliment.

- Well, I guess

I'll see you around.

- Yeah, definitely.

- Yeah.

Is there something else?

- My keys.

- Right.

Enjoy your date.

- I'll try my best.

It's good seeing you, Jess.

- Mm-hm.

- Who was that?

- That is Luke.

- The Luke?

Wow. He's...

- I'm gonna get us a table.

- I'm just saying.

Are you ever gonna tell me

what happened between

the two of you?

- No, I already told

you it doesn't matter.

- Clearly it does.

Something about Luke's dad

cutting Ray out of Tune Up Wiz?

- Yeah.

So it was back when Luke

and I were in college

and Luke's grandfather

wanted his dad and my dad

to be partners, take

over the company.

- Okay.

- [Jess] But Luke's dad refused.

- Oh.

But you broke off with

Luke because of that?

How does that make any sense?

- So Luke knew his father's plan

to cut my dad

outta the business,

and he said absolutely nothing.

My dad was completely

blindsided.

By the time he found out,

there was nothing he could do.

So he started over.

From scratch.

- Yikes.

(upbeat music)

- Hello?

Anybody here?

Hello?

- Oh, hi there.

Sorry.

Wait, are you...

You're Wayne LaRoche

from "Road Renegades."

My dad and I used to watch

that show all the time.

- And you are Jessica Barro.

- How do you know my name?

- Well, you did a

restoration for my friend.

A '66 Pontiac GTO in...

- Marina Turquoise.

- That's the one.

Blew me away.

- Thank you.

- Which is why I think

you're perfect for this.

- Perfect for what?

- Hey guys, come on in.

Come on.

Don't worry. They don't bite.

Oh, and none of this

footage is gonna be used

without your permission.

- My permission?

- We're doing

a competition show

for car restorers called

"American High Gear."

Look, Jess, when

I saw your work,

I had to meet the

genius behind it.

- Ah, well, if you could see

behind the grease on my

face, I'd be blushing.

- So I've been

scouting contestants.

And to be frank, it's all men.

I think having

a woman in the show

would inspire a lotta people.

- Well, I wouldn't be so sure.

Sorry, can we just cut the

cameras for a second, please?

- Of course. Yeah.

So we're gonna be sh**ting

at the Classic

Car Fest in Alden.

Do you know it?

- Yeah. I used to go there

all the time, actually.

- Well, it's gonna be fantastic.

Beautiful cars, packed audience.

And did I mention

top prize is $50,000?

- Look, I really appreciate it,

but not exactly a TV type.

- With all due respect,

that's why you're perfect.

I mean, you're authentic,

you're brilliant at what you do,

and I can't think

of anyone better.

- I appreciate it, but

I'm really busy here.

Good luck with it though.

Sounds fun.

- Sure.

Look, if you change

your mind, call me.

Our contestants are staying

at the Pinefield B&B.

- I used to stay there

all the time as a kid.

- No kidding!

See, it was meant to be.

Jess, I really do

think it'd inspire

a lot of people

seeing you up there.

Just think about it, okay?

- Okay.

- You're great.

Okay, guys, let's go.

(gentle music)

Good job, buddy.

(Jess laughs)

- And he's going on and

on about my restorations.

You remember the '66 GTO?

- In Marina Turquoise?

What a beauty.

- What a beauty.

Ah, I don't know, though.

I'd rather not.

Large crowds, I mean,

all those people.

It's not exactly my forte.

- You do whatever

you feel is right.

(gentle music)

- You okay?

Been acting really weird.

- Yeah, it's fine.

- Dad, you can talk to me.

You know that, right?

- That call I got was

from our landlord.

- Okay.

- He's raising our rent.

You know how competitive shop

space is downtown right now.

- Yeah.

- Apparently he's getting offers

from tenants willing

to prepay for the year.

He wants us to do the same.

- That's insane.

- We don't have that

kind of reserve.

- Okay.

What about a loan?

- It's tough.

Hey, I don't want you

to worry about it.

I'll figure it out.

- No, no, it's just

that TV producer today,

he said the winner of the

competition gets $50,000.

Go a long way towards our rent.

- I think it sounds like

a great opportunity.

Not for the garage, but for you.

You are the best

mechanic I know.

And I'm not just saying that

because I'm your father.

- I don't know, Dad.

Being a woman in this

business is hard enough.

I can't handle the pressure

of trying to prove myself.

- You don't have to

prove anything to anyone.

Your work speaks for itself.

I'm just saying.

(gentle music continues)

(bright music)

(kids laughing)

Baby, baby, I've been

meaning to tell you

And it's taken

me far too long

You make every

day a happy day

I'm so lucky that

you came along

So if I have

(engine sputtering)

- Hey, there.

Need a hand?

- Not unless you got

a new car battery.

- Oh, I think it's

the alternator.

- I know my way around a car.

It's the battery.

- Hey, would you try

something for me?

- Sure.

- You got a radio

installed in there?

- [Driver] Yeah.

- Okay.

Hop on in, turn her on.

Set the radio to AM and

then find a low frequency,

something with no music.

- [Driver] Okay.

- All right, now step

on the accelerator

and tell me if you hear

a high-pitched noise.

(car ringing)

- You know, I think it

might be the alternator.

- That is a handy trick.

I see we both trained

under my granddad.

- Luke.

What are you doing here?

- I convinced my dad to

get a Tune Up Wiz booth.

You know, strategy.

Bar charts, pie charts,

various kinds of charts.

- Wow. You got that

corporate lingo down.

- You think so?

- Yeah. No.

- Oh, okay.

What are you doing here?

- Uh, I'm just here to

check out classic cars.

- Yeah, it's the festival.

It's been a minute.

Can't help but

remember all the times

we used to run around here.

Hey, do you remember that

time we hopped the fence?

- You know, I'd rather not.

- Sorry. Of course.

Enjoy the festival, Jess.

- Yeah.

Yeah, you too.

Don't get motor oil on

your fancy sports coat.

- What, this old thing?

It was on sale.

- I can tell.

(melancholy music)

(people chattering)

- [Wayne] Jess!

You made it.

- Happy to be here.

Looks like you've

got your hands full.

- Oh, you have no idea.

One of our contestants

dropped out just this morning.

- Seriously?

- I wouldn't joke about that.

Thankfully we found

a replacement here

at the festival.

- Well, I guess if you're

looking for car people,

this is the place to find them.

- That's for sure.

Oh, here comes

our replacement now.

- Jess?

- Wait, you're

in the competition?

- So, is everything okay?

- Can I talk to you for a sec?

- Can I talk to you for a sec?

Me first.

I'm so sorry.

It's just, I didn't realize

he was gonna be on the show too.

- So what's the issue?

- Well, you know,

it's a really long story.

Tragic one, really.

- Wait, wait, wait.

Is this...

Are you two...?

- Oh, we're not dating.

- But you were.

Oh, this is television gold.

- No, no, no, no. It's not gold.

It's not even bronze.

- You never said you were

a contestant on the show.

- Well, you said you

were manning a booth.

- I was manning a booth

until this lovely

gentleman approached me

desperate for

another contestant.

But if it's a problem,

I can bow out.

Unless you're not afraid

of a little competition.

- Oh, please.

I'm just afraid you can't

handle losing to me.

(Kevin slurping)

- Oh, don't mind us.

- We're your fellow contestants.

- Is this show about car

restoration or couples therapy?

- I guess it's on.

- Oh, it's on.

(upbeat music)

- [Announcer] Ladies

and gentlemen!

Take your seats!

"American High Gear" will

begin in five minutes.

(contestants chattering)

- Don't be nervous.

There's no shame

in losing to me.

- Look, the only thing I'll

be losing is your number.

(audience laughing)

(upbeat music)

- Welcome to

"American High Gear."

(audience cheering)

The show that separates the

hot rods from the clunkers.

I'm your host, Wayne LaRoche.

Over the next week,

we'll put our contestants'

restoration skills to the test.

The three finalists

will then compete

for a winner-take-all

championship round,

which will determine America's

top classic car restorer.

(audience cheering)

Let's meet our

contestants, shall we?

First up, we got Kevin from

White Plains, New York.

Next we've got Ike from

Tupelo, Mississippi.

Then we have Clark from

Minnetonka, Minnesota.

Last, but definitely not least,

got Luke and Jess

who both actually hail

from right here

in Detroit, Michigan.

- Happy to be-

- Happy to be-

- I'm so sorry.

- I insist.

- You always insist.

- Ooh, looks like these

two have some history.

(audience cheering)

All right, folks,

before you are some of the

most iconic cars to restore.

From a 1970 Chevy Chevelle

to a 1966 Ford Thunderbird.

- That Thunderbird's

gonna be tough.

Not enough time to

fix a car that bad.

- Maybe for some.

- Now, for our opening round,

the contestants will

have two minutes

to sand down a

randomly-selected car hood

from one of these vehicles.

Now, the winner

will get to choose

which vehicle to restore

and then assign another

vehicle of their choice

to the next ranked competitor.

These will then be the

contestants' vehicles

for the rest of the show.

Contestants, take

your positions.

Go.

You got it.

- Just pretend it's

your computer mouse.

- Appreciate your concern.

(audience cheering)

- Oh, and to up the ante,

we've souped up the motors

in your orbital sanders.

So hold on tight, because

we're moving fast.

Three, two, one, go!

(upbeat music)

- They're not even here.

(sanders buzzing)

- Woo, it's got some torque.

- I've changed over 100 diapers,

this is nothing.

(sanders buzzing)

(upbeat music continues)

- Man, I'm on fire.

- Oh no.

- I got it.

- It's all right.

No, no, no, no, it's fine.

Do your thing.

It's all the way

on the other side.

- I got it.

- [Luke] You sure?

- [Jess] Yep. Here.

- Okay. Okay.

- Here.

- Turn it off.

- Cable.

- Watch the cord.

- Okay.

- My cord's around your cord.

Jess, Jess, just let it go.

- Luke! Luke!

Luke, just stop.

(hood clatters)

(crowd gasping)

- [Wayne] 10 seconds remaining.

10 seconds.

- Here, I got the horse.

- Three, two, one...

That's time!

(audience cheering)

Well, folks, it looks like

our Michigan mechanics ran

into some troubles.

But hey, it's okay.

It's still anybody's round.

Judges, please tally

up your scores.

We'll be right back after

a short commercial break.

And the results are in.

In first, our new dad, Ike.

Congratulations, Ike.

All right, contestants,

it's time to decide

which car you'll be foisting

on your competition.

- Luke assigned me

the '66 Thunderbird.

That's the most b*at-up car

of the group to restore.

- Oh, that's not very

gentlemanly of him, is it?

- No, it's rude.

- Or, no, you

should be flattered.

- What?

- Because he knows

you're the only one

on that stage that

can handle it.

- Well, I can and I will.

You know, that's not even

the worst part, though.

The worst part is the only

reason he's ahead of me

on the leaderboard is

because my nerves got to me.

I see the crowd,

I completely freeze.

- Yeah, everybody gets nervous.

Just try not to topple over

a massive car hood next time.

- Oh, you're mean.

(Tori laughs)

You know, that's

not even really it.

I feel like when my mom d*ed,

I lost like a really

big part of myself.

That part of me that felt

like I could do anything

and I could be anyone.

(melancholy music)

I just feel really

lonely sometimes.

- Hey, but you know that

we are all here for you.

We love you and support you.

- Thanks.

- I'm gonna be in

that crowd tomorrow.

So you're good.

You okay?

- Yeah, it's just,

it's tragic, really.

I'm gonna have to

show 'em who's boss.

- That's my girl.

(glasses clinking)

(insects chirring)

- I think the universe

is punishing me

for stepping outside

of my comfort zone.

- Just worry about

your own work.

Don't let it get to you.

Boy, I wish I could

be there to watch,

but, ah, I gotta keep

things running here.

- It's fine.

It'll be good to

see a friendly face.

- You're gonna have

lots of friendly faces

once they get to

know you, honey.

I love you.

- I love you too, Dad.

Come on!

Where there is the

power on this thing?

We can just pull it.

- If you're taking

that up to your room,

could I get one last cup?

- What are you doing up?

- Was on my way to the gym

when I came across

this attempted robbery.

May I?

- Be my guest.

(machine beeps)

Clever.

Thank you.

- I'm sorry about today.

That was a disaster.

- It's not entirely your fault.

I was on edge.

- It's kinda fun, though,

doing this together again.

Takes me back.

Remember that time in college

when we stripped the

'54 Caddy to the studs?

- We almost broke my dad's

hoist in the process.

I remember.

He does too.

He forgives you, by the way.

- He's a good man.

- Well, I'm gonna head up

and finish studying on

the '66 Thunderbird.

Cheap move, by the way.

- It's only 'cause I knew

you could handle it.

- Oh, you're going

down, Luke Childs.

Get your beauty rest.

(bright music)

(birds chirping)

- I got some great photos at

the festival this morning.

- What? That's amazing.

- Good.

- Maybe you'll find something

that will inspire your project.

- Well, I mean my teacher

told us to make a statement,

to express who we are.

- You should snap some sh*ts

of the dirty laundry

on your bedroom floor.

- Mom, stop it. Stop.

- I mean, it's accurate

representation.

- It's okay.

All great artists suffer,

but they find their

way eventually.

- Yeah.

- Or they're driven crazy

by their ex-boyfriends

and go completely insane.

- Whose ex-boyfriend?

- What's that?

Uh...

- Mine.

- Teri's!

- Ah.

I'll see you at the competition.

- Mm-hm.

- [Luke] Okay.

- Okay.

- [Teri] That wasn't

awkward at all.

- What was that?

Wonder why they kept you

both in the competition.

Great tension.

- What tension?

- Romantic tension.

Oh, they must be eating it up.

- Yeah. There's no

romantic tension.

I just wish she'd forgive

me, stop blaming me.

- Well, maybe she's

not blaming you.

She just doesn't think

you took her side.

- I didn't take anybody's side.

- Maybe that's the problem.

- Welcome to day two of

"American High Gear."

(audience cheering)

Now, to be a top

restoration mechanic,

you can't just know

your way around cars.

No, you need to be encyclopedic

about tools, parts, and systems.

- Hey, here's to not toppling

car hoods today, huh?

- Huh? Okay.

- All right.

- Oh, too slow.

(audience laughing)

- Uh-oh.

It looks like our

Michigan mechanics are

at it again, folks.

Play nice, you two.

Now contestants, remember,

every second section is

an elimination round,

which means we'll

be saying goodbye

to whoever loses in trivia.

Here we go.

Buzzers at the ready?

- Yep.

- Question number one.

How many volts should a

healthy battery register

on a multimeter?

Jess?

- 12.6.

- Correct.

(audience cheering)

Looks like somebody's

batteries are charged.

Second question.

What kind of power is produced

in the engine cylinder

as a result of fuel combustion?

Luke.

- It's indicated power, Wayne.

- Correct! Wow.

Michigan contestants are

off to a blazing start.

Look out, folks.

- You're lucky

I taught you that.

- Yeah. Okay.

- Rear traction control.

- Electronic control unit.

- The scrub radius.

- Wayne, that's a

catalytic converter.

- Four of them.

- 14.7 parts air

to one part fuel.

- Three degrees before

top dead center.

- Oh, that's four

degrees, Clark.

Four degrees. Sorry, big guy.

- Spring-loaded Muncie shifter.

- Flywheel.

- [Wayne] Jess, you buzzed in.

(upbeat music)

- Oh.

- We're waiting.

- You know this.

- Camshaft. It's camshaft.

- Oh, camshaft is correct,

but I'm sorry, you're just

a little bit too late.

Now, adding up today's points

with the previous days.

- It's all right.

You're all right.

- Luke and Jess have

climbed up from yesterday.

Kevin is now in fourth,

which sadly means

we'll be saying goodbye

to our friend Clark.

I know, I know.

(audience clapping)

We'll miss you, pal.

But hey folks, still

anybody's game.

Until next time for

"American High Gear,"

Wayne LaRoche.

- And Clark.

- And we're out.

(bell rings)

Good job.

Great job.

- You okay?

- We'll find out.

- You know, I gotta say,

as the only female contestant,

Jess is more than

holding up her own

but you see those

nerves showing?

I mean, that's death on TV.

Anyway, with these

elimination rounds,

she continues like this

she's not gonna last,

which would be a real shame.

(crowd chattering)

- Well, that was rough.

- It's okay.

Om...

Om...

(gentle music)

- How exactly is this helping?

- We are centering ourselves

and we are connecting

you to the voice inside.

- Oh, I can hear that voice.

It's saying stop

sitting cross-legged.

You're getting sciatica.

- Focus, Jess.

We're almost zen.

Om...

(football thudding)

- I mean, does he have to

play football right there?

- New plan. Get on your feet.

- No.

- Come on. Up.

And arms up and oh!

Release the tension.

Let it all out!

- Well, this was a good idea.

- What's going on over there?

- They're centering themselves.

I do that most mornings

before my first

round of video games.

- That does not surprise me.

- Whatever works.

It seems like Jess

could use a reset.

- Yeah, Jess is all right.

She's the strongest

person I know.

- I don't doubt it.

But what exactly is

going on between you two?

I'm sensing some hurt feelings.

- Yeah, we got

some healing to do.

- Well, she better heal quick.

I don't intend on losing in

any of these elimination rounds

and she's next on

the chopping block.

- All right, Kevin.

Slow down.

- This is ridiculous...

- Ly effective.

- I'm gonna take

your word for it.

- Okay. Sit down again.

We have got to figure out

what is holding you back.

What happens to you when

you get up on that stage?

- I don't know, okay?

I lose my nerve.

- Jess, I have seen you

at work in the zone.

You can accomplish anything.

- I just feel so much pressure.

- Yes, there has

been a lot going on,

but it's all gonna work out.

- Not if I don't win.

- Stop it.

Has your father gotten this far?

Survived this long with giving

up when things get tough?

If you win, great.

If you don't, we

will figure it out.

And that vulnerability

that you see as a weakness,

honey, that is your strength.

That sensitivity is what

makes you an artist.

You're stronger than you know.

Om!

- No, I'm not doing it.

- When it comes to

restoring a classic car,

it can take a rigorous

search through vintage parts

to find the exact

piece you need.

- Missed you at breakfast.

- I hope you didn't fill up,

because you're about

to eat my dust.

(audience laughing)

- There she is.

- Today, our contestants are

gonna replace their headlights,

install a new battery,

and rewire whatever they

need to turn them on.

- Yikes. It's not gonna be

easy with that Thunderbird.

The housing on the lights

is gonna have to fit

the grill just right.

- I know.

- Good.

- So, first team to fire

up their lights wins.

- Teams?

- That's right.

Just to make things a

little bit more challenging

we've broken our competitors

up into teams of two.

So Kevin, Ike, you're

on the Skylark.

Jess, Luke, you're

on the Thunderbird.

- Well, looks like we're

in this thing together.

I got your back.

- Prove it.

- Contestants,

on your marks, get set,

go.

(upbeat music)

(audience cheering)

- If you wanna hold my hand,

you can just ask.

- Your hands are so soft.

What? No tools at the office?

(audience laughing)

- It figures.

- Boom!

This'll work.

- See anything?

- What do you got?

- I got two pin.

- Great. We're missing a three.

Keep looking.

Bingo. Got it.

- Okay.

(audience cheering)

- Keep it going, guys.

It's still anyone's

game. Let's go.

- This is the Jess I remember.

- Then let's win this thing.

- Fire 'em up.

(audience cheering)

(audience groans)

- Uh-oh.

Misfire on the Thunderbird.

Looks like they're not done

troubleshooting just yet.

- No! We blew a fuse.

Hey, I saw one

in the parts pile.

Go see if you can find.

- It's just gonna keep blowing

unless we figure out

what's wrong with the wiring.

- Didn't you gimme

the Thunderbird

'cause you knew

I could handle it?

Luke, trust me.

I know what I'm doing.

- Yes, ma'am.

- Come on, Kevin.

- Signal switch.

- Keep it going,

g*ng. Keep it going.

- And the signal relay.

Directional relay.

Nope.

The trunk relay.

(upbeat music continues)

- [Luke] Got it.

- [Jess] Got it?

- [Luke] Yeah.

- It's gonna be a close one.

- All right, fuse is in.

Give it a go.

- Hit it.

(upbeat music continues)

(audience cheering)

(Jess laughs)

- We did it!

- Leaderboard time.

Remember, judges have

awarded points according

to how teams place,

but they've also

tripled the points

to those who've

gone the extra mile

with their craftsmanship.

- Craftswomanship.

- And let's take a look.

And that's it for today.

For "American High

Gear," I'm Wayne LaRoche.

We'll see you next time.

(upbeat music)

- Dad, I wanna talk to

you about something.

I think you should

reconsider acquiring Barro's.

There's a lot of other

shops that we could get.

- Barro's is in

a prime location.

If we don't nab it,

one of our competitors will.

- But why not help them?

When grandad was alive, all the

shop owners knew each other.

We were competitors,

but we were friends.

Jess is also on the show.

- I think you're

letting your feelings

for Jess cloud your judgment.

Right, do me a favor,

leave this with me.

Acquisitions are

all about timing

and I don't want Ray

learning of this offer

until it's properly presented.

- What are you asking me?

You're asking me not to

mention this to Jess?

- Well, there's a lot

of factors that go

into our decision

to acquire a shop.

- And I'm asking you to make

our history one of them.

Dad, for me.

- All right, I hear you.

I'll put my finger on

the pause button for now.

Now come on, you get out

there and you make us proud.

- Yeah, sure.

Okay.

(people chattering)

It's a great job today.

You really pivoted out there.

Next generation of

auto techs right here.

These two, it's your influence.

- I mean that's why I

used to love coming here

with our families.

Surrounded by auto enthusiasts.

A sense of connection.

- Speaking of connection,

did you hear about

the social activity

that Wayne's got slated for us?

It's a way for the

contestants to bond.

- Do I wanna know?

(upbeat music)

I can't believe this place

is still around.

I haven't been roller

skating in forever.

- That's our song.

Do you hear it?

- Oh, no, no, no, no, no.

- That is not the attitude

of a 7th-grade champion.

If I recall correctly,

we dominated a very, very real

roller skating competition.

- Okay, well, that's because

there was one other couple

and they dropped out

when both of them fell.

- I don't know about all that.

But what I do know

is that you and I.

Three, four, here we go.

Boom, one, two.

Let's go.

Here we go.

One, two.

Let's have a little fun

When the music

starts playing

We're gonna have

a little fun, yeah

Can you hear what I'm saying

The weekend's almost here

And I'm just waiting

for the moment that

- Ready to lose, old man?

- I'm gonna fold

you like a onesie.

- What a strange and

fantastic comeback.

Here we go. Pizza

and ranch dressing.

Just like the old days.

- Thank you.

Hm. Can't believe you

remembered our old routine.

- I still practice

every night before bed.

You don't?

- Really.

- Yeah.

- Wow.

Well, I mean, that's smart

because you never know

when a big business deal's

gonna come down to a

winner-take-all skate off.

It's good life choices.

- Don't get me started

on life choices.

- Come on, you're

getting through.

You're doing fine.

- As if you think that.

- You're working for your dad.

I'm working for my dad.

We're both doing

the best we can.

- Except you're

doing what you love,

and I'm stuck in

an office playing

with spreadsheets

and having meetings.

- Yeah, it's like a

spreadsheet video game.

It's fun.

- The greatest.

- Okay, fine, it's not

exactly apples to potatoes.

- No, it's not apples

to potatoes at all.

I got sucked into

this thing, you know?

Couldn't say no.

- Well, I mean, you can say no.

But...

How's your mom?

- Mom is good.

She moved to Arizona

after the divorce.

- Oh.

- Still talks about you a lot.

- Oh yeah?

- I wish it would

stop, honestly.

But, you know, in

this competition,

you remind me a lot of your mom.

- We're talking about

the same mom, right?

- Same mom, yes.

- My mom. Okay.

Yeah. Yeah.

My mom who could just walk

in front of a group of

people and not break a sweat.

My mom lit up every

room she walked into.

I can just barely get my

words out when it's my turn.

- I know it might

feel like that,

but I don't see it that way.

Your mother was fierce.

She was strong.

She was the kinda person

who would stand up

to any fear in front of her.

And that's what you're doing.

I'm just saying, your mom

was an impressive woman.

So are you.

- Thank you.

Even if you're lying,

it sounds nice.

(birds chirping)

- I'm really proud of you, Jess.

- Dad, it's only

the first round.

I'm barely out of last place.

- Not just yesterday.

Everything.

Being in the competition,

putting yourself out there.

I haven't seen this side

of you in a long time.

- You know, it's funny

because I have spent years

avoiding this kind of situation,

but now that I'm in it, I

just, I wanna go for it.

- That's good.

It really is.

Do you think working with Luke

has had something

to do with that?

- Dad, I'm fighting for the

future of the garage, okay?

I don't have time for feelings.

If there were any.

Speaking of the garage,

did you hear any news?

- I talked to the landlord,

but he's holding firm.

- You know, if I win this thing,

it's gonna solve

all our problems.

- Nothing solves all problems,

but don't worry about that.

I've applied for a loan.

For now, enjoy the moment.

That's all I care about.

- No, I'm not gonna

let you down, Dad.

- You never could.

- [Luke] So there I

am, parts everywhere,

trying to put it

all back together

when the customer shows up.

- [Audience] Uh-oh.

- Yeah. Uh-oh was right, Wayne.

So he's standing in the doorway

and I look like I just

committed automotive m*rder.

And a single tear

rolls down his cheek

and he goes, "Just came

in for an oil change."

- Ouch. That is quite the

first day on the job, Luke.

- That's quite the last day too.

- True.

- Folks, if you're

just joining us,

we're doing a quick Q&A

with our contestants

to get to know them just

a little bit better.

Now, Jess, I understand that

you grew up around cars.

What is it exactly

that you love about

restoring old classics?

- Ah, well, I've loved classic

cars from a very young age.

Their charm, their design.

I love the way that they

demand that you get in there

and you get your hands dirty.

If I really, really

think about it,

I love what these

cars represent.

Cars are at the center of so

many of my favorite memories.

Family outings and road trips.

Going to restaurants,

drive-ins.

Car is what makes

those memories happen.

Memories fade and

cars deteriorate, but,

I mean, if I can be

just a small part

in restoring those memories

and keeping them alive,

then that means

everything to me.

(gentle music)

You got anyone special

coming to cheer you on?

- My buddy Pete's coming later.

- What? That's it?

Nobody else?

- I don't have a

special cheering section

if that's what you're asking.

Last date I went on

was a disaster.

I knew within the first two

minutes it wasn't a match,

which made the next five, six

hours just super romantic.

How about you? You

seeing anybody?

- No. After my last

string of dates,

which I would rate

from bad to horrible,

pretty much given up.

- Well, at least I can't

say you're a quitter.

- Okay. All right, fine.

I haven't given up, but when

I know I'll know, you know?

Oh, speaking of knowing,

you know the first car

I restored completely

on my own was a Dart.

I painted it purple.

- I remember.

You were an artist

with a spray gum.

Probably still are.

How often are you

restoring these days?

- Ah, it's a side

thing, but I love it.

- Doesn't have to be

a side thing, you know?

Could expand it.

- Yeah, well, that's the dream.

Eventually, but right now

I've gotta help my dad

with basic services.

It's our bread and butter.

Besides, I don't think

I have it in me

to be the front person of

my own restoration biz.

- Jess, you're a natural.

They'd be lining up

around the block for you.

- Yeah, well, that can't

happen soon enough.

- What do you mean?

Jess, you know you

can talk to me.

I am happy to listen.

- We're having some financial

problems at the garage.

- I'm sorry to hear that.

- Yeah.

That's why I joined

the competition.

If I don't win,

I dunno what we'll do.

- Jess, there's something

you should probably know-

- You know, it's funny because,

for the first time,

I actually feel like

things will work out.

I mean, I joined the

competition to save the garage,

but it sort of feels

like something more.

- That's great.

- At least that's what

I keep telling myself

because I really can't

handle any more pressure.

- Right.

(upbeat rock music)

- Our competitors are

racing head-to-head

to diagnose and to repair.

But it looks like Jess is

speeding to the top of the pack.

- Hey, Hercules, feel free

to give us a hand over here.

- If I do that,

and then you're coming

to me every time

you need to open

a jar of pickles.

- And that's a costly

fumble for Mike.

Hold on to those tools, folks.

It all comes down to this.

Now, since the scores

are so neck to neck,

the first three contestants

to fire up their engines

will be moving on

to the last round.

Whoever comes in

last, walks home.

- Socket.

Hey, Luke, you

took my 3/4 socket.

- Yeah, but I also gave it back.

- It's not here.

- [Luke] There we go.

- Ooh, this is close.

Jess is getting close.

(car sputtering)

- Yes!

- Look out!

- Whoa!

- Thanks.

- Yeah. You okay?

- Mm-hm.

- Good.

- I am sorry, Ike,

but that fumble cost

you precious time

putting you in last place,

which means it's

Luke, Kevin, and Jess

moving on to the final round.

(audience clapping)

- Nina, Daddy's coming home.

- Lots to be proud of,

Nina, lots to be proud.

Until next time for

the final round.

For "American High Gear,"

I'm Wayne LaRoche.

And we're out!

- We'll miss you, Ike.

- That's on making

it to the finals.

You two are like a dream team.

- We you make a

pretty good team.

- We're not a team.

- Not a team. No, not a team.

Just meant in the

competition, right?

- Right.

- It's kinda like

a sport, you know?

There's no "I" in team.

There is a me if you

switch letters around.

I'm gonna stop.

This is Pete.

He's the director of

marketing at Tune Up Wiz

and my friend.

- Hey.

- Nice to meet you.

- Nice to meet you.

I love a good comeback story.

- Thanks.

- But, hey, I better head back

to the office before your dad

notices I've been at lunch

for 2 1/2 hours.

- Right. Yeah. Let me

walk you to your car.

I'm gonna be right back.

- Let's go.

- Okay.

- Nice to meet you.

- Bye.

- Hey!

Yeah.

(people chattering)

- Yeah, yeah. I can't

keep doing this.

- What you talking about?

You're k*lling it out there.

I think you could

win this thing.

- And put Jess's dad

completely outta business?

- What?

- They need the prize money

to keep Barros's doors open.

- Are you serious?

- Yeah.

- You should tell her what's

happening with your dad.

It'd be worse if she

finds out on her own.

- I know. I know.

I want to.

I tried, but she doesn't

need the added pressure.

I don't know how I keep finding

myself in this situation.

- The universe

provides, my friend.

- I don't know what

that means, Pete.

Did you read that

on a fortune cookie?

- No.

Okay, look, one time, yes.

But I'm serious.

We attract the things

we need to overcome,

- Right. Yeah.

Thank you for that, Yoda.

I'm gonna attract

her hating me more.

Do you understand

what I'm saying?

- She won't if you're honest.

She's a good person

and so are you.

Don't forget that.

I'll see you around.

- Thanks, buddy.

(people chattering)

- Eden's photo

exhibition is tonight.

She keeps checking in with me

to make sure that you're coming.

- Of course. I wouldn't miss it.

- Good, good.

- Early afternoon and

we're already done.

I can get used to this.

- Well, hi.

- [Luke] Hi.

- I'm Terry.

- I'm Luke.

- I work for Ray and this one.

- Yes, I've heard a lot

about you from Jess.

- Lies, all of it.

No, I'm just kidding.

- Right. Of course.

- No.

Didn't you used to go to

high school with Jess?

- Yes I did.

And I have the frosted

tipped hair to prove it.

- Well it just so happens

that my daughter goes

to the same high school.

- Is that right?

- Yeah. And tonight she's having

a photojournalism exhibit.

Yeah. You wouldn't wanna come?

I mean, Jess is gonna be there.

You could join her.

You could go back to your

old stomping grounds.

- I would love that. Thank you.

- Yeah. Great.

- [Luke] Yeah.

- It's a date.

- Great. I'm gonna

go frost my tips.

- Okay.

He's cute.

- Yeah. Teri, I know

what you're doing.

Luke and I had our time.

We're just friends now.

- You know what, Jess?

It's really easy

to shut people out.

The real challenge is opening

yourself back up again.

Taking a chance.

I will see you both tonight.

(people chattering)

- Wow. It's so different.

Almost erases the trauma

of failing algebra.

- Wow. These kids

are so talented.

- Yeah.

- Takes some guts to put

your heart on display.

- No guts, no glory, right?

- Jess!

- Eden.

Oh, this is Luke.

- Nice to meet you.

- Oh, I know who you are.

- Okay.

- Well, I'm glad you're here.

- Are you kidding?

I wouldn't miss it.

You're gonna be a famous

photojournalist one day

and I wanna be able to say

I was at your first exhibit.

- Well, I'm one step closer.

My teacher loved the exhibit.

I got the job on

the school's paper!

- Oh, congratulations.

I knew you could do it.

- And it's thanks to you.

- What do you mean?

- Well, come on. I'll show you.

I kept searching for an idea

that expressed who I was.

You know, a belief or cause,

but then I realized it was

staring me right in the face.

I wanted to inspire

people to be themselves,

strong and proud because

that's who you are to me.

What do you think?

- I love it.

Thank you.

(gentle music)

- Okay, well, I'll

see you guys later.

- Wanna get some air?

- Sure.

(rain pattering)

- Remember it was pouring

rain during homecoming?

- Yeah. It didn't

stop us from dancing

in this field right here.

Or that kid from sliding

and slipping all the way

down the bleachers.

- Down the bleachers.

- What's that kid's name again?

- Derek.

- Derek.

- Derek.

- Come on.

- Dinkleman.

- Dinkleman.

- My granddad sold

him his first car.

- Oh yeah?

- Yeah.

- I did not know that.

- Yeah, he used to always

say that most important part

of a car was the person

behind the wheel.

- He had an amazing spirit.

- Yeah, he really did.

That's exactly how I'd run

the company if were up to me.

- Yeah, well, it's

not up to you.

Not now anyway.

- Yeah.

- You know, when we broke up,

it was really hard for me.

- Me too.

(gentle music)

Think about the things

Think about the

things you said

I have never been

Never been the kind, babe

But if it's all

the same to you

I'm gonna lock you in,

throw the key away

- What are you doing?

- It stopped raining.

Gimme your umbrella.

No I'm not ready

I can never let you

go, just let you go

Just let you go like that

I'm not ready, ready

Just look around

(gentle music)

- Well, it's been quite a ride,

but it all comes down to this.

The final round.

(audience clapping)

Now the scores have

all been cleared,

so each contestant has an

equal chance of winning.

The final challenge

will be to complete your

vehicle's restoration

with a custom paint

job within two days.

- [Audience] Wow!

- The judges will

not only assess

for quality, but creativity.

- Let's do this!

- Contestants, have at it.

- You two have been

fun to chill with,

but now it's go time.

You're going down.

(upbeat music continues)

- Whatever happens, one

of us has to b*at Kevin.

- Absolutely.

- My money's on you.

(gentle music)

- Well, I've got a

lotta work to do,

so I'm gonna get going,

but I'll see you later.

- Promise?

- When I got your text

inviting me for drinks,

I assumed you'd meant to

send it to a different Ray.

- Yeah, well, it's

been a while, huh?

So I hear that Jess

made it to the finals.

Yeah. You must be very proud.

- You were never

one for small talk,

so what's this really about?

- I wanna buy your garage.

- I appreciate that, but

the garage isn't for sale.

- Oh, come on Ray.

I sense that Jess wouldn't be

involved in this competition

if you didn't need the money.

It's a generous offer.

There's enough there you to

be able to retire comfortably

and for Jess to

make a fresh start.

- The answer's no.

- Come on, Ray.

Don't make this about the past.

You could lose your

entire business.

This is a way out.

- I have no intention

of losing it.

I have my best employee on it.

I bet everything I have

every time on Jess.

You know, you might consider

betting more on your son.

Nice seeing you, Steven.

(upbeat music)

(fire crackling)

- Is this reserved?

Can anyone sit here and

stare pensively at the fire?

- Please, join me.

- Didn't wanna join

the party, huh?

Kevin's in there.

He is teaching everybody

a great dance movie

called the lawnmower.

- Okay. I gotta see that.

Huh, looks like he's

moved on to flossing.

That's exactly what

I hoped it would be.

- He's good, right?

- I was just thinking

about the time when went

camping at Lakeport.

- I'd never seen as many stars.

It was really good to get

away after my mom's passing.

You were always there for me.

- Until I wasn't.

I wanted to tell you

what my father was doing

with your dad and the business,

and maybe I didn't fully

comprehend what was happening,

but more likely I

didn't have the courage

to stand up to him,

to stand up for you.

And my goodness do I regret it.

It takes a lotta courage

to do what you're doing.

Getting up on that

stage every day,

knowing how scared you are.

Maybe if you could

be that brave,

I can too.

- I don't know if

I'm that brave.

As much as it pains

me to say this,

I don't think I could do

this crazy thing without you.

- I never thought that I'd

get you back in my life.

You know, I never

wanted to lose you.

(gentle music)

I see you, baby, acting cool

Ain't no doubt

gonna make you mine

I wanna kiss you

and hold you tight

Whoa, there's a fire burning

I know you can feel it

I can see it in your eyes

All right

(upbeat music continues)

And it feels so good

Say you love what you do

- And where there's

Motown, there's a Jess.

- Can't paint without it.

It was my mom's favorite.

- Oh, I know.

- Paint's done.

- There's no way.

- Yeah, I'm waiting

for it to dry.

- Okay. I gotta see this.

- Oh, no, no, no.

- I gotta see it.

- No, no, no, no.

Patience, my friend.

There are dividers for a reason.

- You free later?

Some things I wanna

talk to you about.

- Yeah.

That sounds more serious

than the color of paint

you're gonna choose.

- Maybe slightly.

- Okay.

Well, listen, my dad

and Eden and Teri

are gonna come for lunch,

but how about dinner?

- Yeah, it's a date.

- Okay. Good.

There are just a couple

more things I have to grab.

But hey, no peeking.

- No peeking? No promises.

Okay.

- [Steven] Hey, Luke.

- Dad, what are you doing here?

- You said you wanted to talk.

So what's on your mind, son?

- You know I want the

best for you, right?

And I appreciate everything

that you've built,

but I think something

needs to change here.

- What are you getting at?

- That if Barro's is in trouble

and you don't want

our competitors

to have their location,

then I think, given our history,

the least we can do is help

them get back on their feet.

- That's just not how

our business works, son.

Look, I need someone on my side

that I can trust in leadership.

And that person is you.

- I appreciate that.

But I wanna be building

community like Ray and Jess.

- Look, I know you wanted me

to hold off, but I went ahead

and I presented

Ray with an offer.

- What?

- He turned me down.

He seems to have lost

sight of what's imminent.

I tried to reason with him.

But he won't let go of the past.

- Okay, so what now?

- Well, I spoke to his landlord.

I made a conditional deposit

on a multi-year

lease for the garage.

It will take effect if

he defaults on his rent.

I'm protecting your future.

- [Luke] I appreciate that.

- [Steven] I'm just leaving

the rest of it to fate.

- Hey, Teri, can you

hang on a second?

- If he can't come

up with the money,

he's gonna be out anyway.

He'll be forced to

sell the business.

I mean, at least this way,

we ensure that he

lands on both feet.

This is what makes

the most sense.

- Yeah. Hey, I'm here.

Did you know Tune Up Wiz was

trying to buy the garage?

- How do you know about that?

- So it is true?

- Luke's father made an offer,

but your dad refused it.

Unfortunately, the bank has

rejected his loan application.

So he's looking for things

that he can sell

to raise the money.

- Well, if we can't, Steven's

gonna take over our lease

and kick us out anyway.

You know, hey, can

I call you back?

(people chattering)

(melancholy music)

(phone ringing)

- Pick up, Jess.

- [Jess] Hey, this is Jess

from Barro's Auto.

(Luke sighs)

(paint g*n clicking)

Who's done this?

What is your issue?

(compressor clacking)

(compressor whirring)

(paint g*n hissing)

No.

Okay.

(people chattering)

- Luke.

(somber music)

What?

(Jess gasping)

- It was an accident.

- What happened?

- The compressor,

it wasn't working.

I was distracted.

Jess, I am so sorry.

- Did you enter the competition

to keep me from winning

so your father could

buy the garage?

- What?

- I overheard your dad's plan.

- No, that's not why I entered.

I just found out.

I knew he wanted to acquire

the garage, but I didn't...

- I know what he's

planning, Luke.

So you knew he wanted

to buy the garage

and you stay in the competition

so I don't win the prize money.

And you want me to believe

this was an accident?

- I never wanna hurt you,

Jess. Please believe that.

- That's just it.

I don't think that I can.

(somber music continues)

- Hey.

I'm not really too sure

why you wanted me here.

- Dad, please take a seat.

I think it's time that you

and I had a very real talk.

- Go ahead.

- I want you to call

off the plan for Ray's

and I want you to help them.

- You already know

I can't do that.

- He was your partner.

The Barros are

practically family.

Do you really think that

granddad would've wanted this?

- Your grandfather wanted

this company to grow.

That's all I'm trying to do.

- He would never have wanted

you to treat a friend this way.

- Because of that friendship.

Ray's gonna be better

off and so is Jess.

- This should not be

your decision to make.

And I know you have it in

you to be better than this,

but if you can't see that

this is the right thing to do,

then I can't be a part of it.

Any of it.

This is my resignation.

- Whoa, whoa.

Hey, Luke. Luke, wait.

Hey, you think of your future.

- That's exactly

what I'm doing, Dad.

I may have lost the most

important person to me,

but I'm gonna do

everything that I can

to make sure she doesn't

lose the most important

thing to her.

- Let's just take a

moment and think, okay.

The competition isn't over yet.

- It is for me.

I can't prep and paint

a car before the finale.

I let everybody down.

- You did great, Jess.

I'm sure you would've won.

- Can I have a word

alone with Jess?

- Absolutely.

Come on, you.

Let's take a walk.

(waterfall whooshing)

- I'm guessing this isn't

just about the garage.

- When Luke joined

the competition,

I felt all these memories

just come flooding back to me.

The way he let me down,

the way he changed your life.

- I'm fine, Jess.

- Yeah, but it upset me.

Then something amazing happened.

I started seeing

the old Luke again,

the one I fell in love with.

And it was such a

relief, you know,

because I started

feeling this part

of me coming back again.

But it wasn't real.

And I never should've

let him back in.

- Sure.

And that way you can

just move through life

without ever hitting

a bump in the road?

Your mom and I weren't perfect.

We hit lots of bumps

along the road,

but through it all,

she always brought

out the best in me.

This competition was never

just about cars for me, Jess.

- Well, cars don't cause pain.

- They also don't love.

Maybe it was an accident.

I just, I don't see

sabotage in Luke's heart.

(waterfall whooshing)

Come here.

It's okay.

- [Jess] Mr. Childs?

- Hey, Jessica.

- Somebody was saying

you wanted to see me.

- I'd really like to talk

if you'd just have a seat.

- Sure.

- Look, I really need

to explain myself.

My dad and I were

very different people,

and in many ways he was

actually a lot like your dad.

And I wanted to have

a different kind

of relationship with Luke.

You know, in my effort to

bring us closer together,

I seem to have driven

him further away.

I made Luke choose

between you and my family.

And that was a big mistake.

Luke would never do anything

to hurt you or your dad.

He's a good man.

In many ways, he's a

better man than me.

I'm deeply sorry for what I did.

(gentle music)

- Thank you.

I really needed to hear that.

(phone ringing)

- Come on.

- Hey, I wanna talk.

- Sure.

I'm just trying to reach Wayne.

I'm dropping out

of the competition.

- No, Luke, you don't have-

- The paint was an accident,

but my hesitation to tell

you about my dad wasn't.

I don't blame you

for not believing me.

- Look, Luke, I

talked to your father

and-

- I resigned.

- That was a big step.

- Yeah, it was the

right thing to do.

At the end of the day,

I wanna like the person

I see in the mirror.

- Good.

'Cause I like that guy too.

- Still?

- Yes. Still.

Because he reminds me

to believe in myself,

and he always has.

And that guy, he

reminds me who I can be

when I'm not hiding.

Plus he's really

fun to be around

and I would miss him if he

wasn't in the competition.

- We're still talking

about me, right?

Are you sure you

want me to stay in?

- Yes. I don't

want some pity win.

That's not who I am.

And Luke, I know you

didn't do it on purpose.

- Okay.

- Luke, I couldn't

do this without you.

Please, please stay.

- I've ruined your car.

What are you gonna do?

- Figure it out.

(upbeat music)

- All right, folks,

the moment we've all

been waiting for!

The final restoration reveal.

Who's ready?

(audience clapping)

All right, first up.

Mr. Big Gulp himself, Kevin.

(fingers snapping)

(audience clapping)

That is an impressive

showroom shine, Kev.

- Great job, Kevin.

It's beautifully done.

- Precision. It's who I am.

(audience clapping)

- Next up, Michigan's

favorite son, Luke.

(audience clapping)

(audience member whooping)

Very impressive.

Motor City will be proud.

Well done, Luke.

- Thank you, sir. Appreciate it.

- Now Jess, before

we reveal your car,

I heard you ran into

a little snag when one

of the contestants accidentally

sprayed paint on it.

Is that true?

- Well, it's just a couple of

bumps along the road, Wayne,

but it wouldn't be a

journey without them.

- All right, let's reveal it.

(audience clapping)

(upbeat music)

Wow.

The judges have

locked in their votes.

Folks, your first winner ever

for "American High Gear" is

Jess Barro!

(audience cheering)

(uplifting music)

And that's it for your first

season of "American High Gear."

I'm Wayne LaRoche.

We'll see you next time.

- Oh, too slow.

(uplifting music continues)

- My girl, you rocked it.

So proud of you.

Look at this thing!

(gentle music)

- I'm so proud of you. Jess.

- Barro's Auto lives on.

You have no idea how

happy that makes me.

- Okay. I gotta see this.

- And your support.

- Well, it's the

least I could do.

(glasses clinking)

- All right, you guys. Come on.

Get in front of Luke's car.

Come on.

- Okay.

- Hey Ray, congratulations.

You were right to

have faith in Jess.

- Your son's pretty

exceptional too.

I see a lotta your dad in him.

- When my father said

that he wanted us both

to run Tune Up Wiz,

I was pretty hurt.

I thought he didn't have faith

in me to run the company,

but it's okay.

I now realize that,

well, he wanted the values

that you both shared

to carry on as well.

I think it's time that

Tune Up Wiz invested more

into this community.

I think it would be

great for longevity.

It would honor our history.

- Why don't you

and I grab a coffee

in the next few days and...

- Yeah.

- Talk about it.

- That sounds really good.

Thanks, pal.

- Yes!

- Fantastic job, Jess.

You really came into your own.

So much so that the

network wants to see more,

possibly even your own show.

- Are you kidding?

Have you met me?

- You're authentic,

you're sincere,

you elevate this craft

into an art form.

Any ideas of what a

show might look like?

- Actually, I think I may.

- Three.

- Welcome to "Community Garage,"

the show that breathes

new life into old rides

for the benefit of

organizations in needs.

Thanks to our

sponsor, Tune Up Wiz,

today we'll be restoring

this beautiful 1954 Bel Air

to be sold at auction

with proceeds going to a rebuild

of our local community center.

I will be giving it a

stylish new exterior

while my cr*ck mechanic, Luke

here, rebuilds the engine

so it runs as good as new.

- As good as new?

Better than new

if I can swing it.

- So we'll see you

after the break.

We are just getting started.

- Great job, guys.

- Thank you, Wayne.

Appreciate it, pal.

First episode.

Buckle up.

- Yeah, it's gonna

be a wild ride.

(upbeat music)