In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Get ready to conquer the cold with EV expert Richard 'Buzz' Smith, the EVangelist, as he joins us to discuss the icy challenges electric vehicle owners face when mercury drops. We're talking about the recent freeze that left Tesla drivers in Chicago out in the cold, literally, tackling the impact of frigid weather on charging efficiency and battery life. But it's not all snow and gloom—dive into the heart of the EV market as we address the unexpected downturn in sales and the uphill battle with dealership markups. Buzz's insights will leave you charged up and ready to navigate the world of electric vehicles, even when the temperatures take a nosedive.Strap in for a turbo-charged conversation on the future of EV infrastructure driving policy and development initiatives. From Tesla opening their charging ports up to the masses, to blockchain securing the reliability of charging stations, this episode is sparking conversations around the globe. As we pay tribute to the legendary Tom &apo

Unlock the secrets to cutting vehicle ownership costs with Kevin Fitzpatrick from Opus IVS, who joins us to unveil the power of diagnostic software in modern cars. As we navigate through anecdotes of boating escapades and local sports fervor, we promise you a session brimming with insights that could save you money on your car maintenance. Imagine diagnosing your car like a pro, avoiding hefty repair bills, and even sailing smoothly through state inspections—this conversation is just the tip of the iceberg.Ever been irked by that persistent lane departure beep? We tackle the nuances of vehicle calibration, the necessity of specialized chips for vintage car performance tunes, and the complexities of custom dyno tunes. Moreover, we emphasize the critical importance of training for technicians working on electric vehicles, ensuring safety isn't compromised. And if you think the annoyance of lane departure systems is just a trivial matter, wait until you hear our take on it.The journey doesn't end there

Discover the inside track on the most prestigious automotive accolades with our special guest, the renowned Jack Nerad, as he takes us behind the scenes of the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards. Peel back the curtain on what makes a vehicle stand out to the judges, and get Jack's unique take, drawn from his multifaceted career including writing for Rodney Dangerfield. We also cast a spotlight on an unexpected cold snap in LA, hinting at the larger narrative of electrical grid challenges that could become more than just a one-off punchline.Shift gears with us as we debate whether electric vehicles should go head-to-head with their gas-guzzling cousins or if they deserve their own podium in automotive competitions. From the versatile Hyundai Kona to the trusty Prius, we navigate the complexities of today's diverse vehicle landscape and charging infrastructures, while also celebrating the impressive ascent of Korean car brands. The conversation takes a turn into the nitty-gritty of infota

Discover the twists and turns of the Houston Automotive Show where RoShelle Salinas walks us through the unexpected shifts in the exhibition landscape. Feel the pulse of the showroom floor as we discuss major brands like Ford, Chevy, and Toyota holding the fort with new attractions, despite Stellantis brands bowing out of indoor drives. In a candid conversation, we dissect the implications of this change and muse over the potential of local dealers to step into the limelight. Plus, get a whiff of that new car smell as we reveal details about the high-octane social event poised to redefine auto show experiences with valet service and an open bar.Shift into gear with Jeff's electrifying report on the life cycle of EV batteries, unraveling the enigma of what happens when these powerhouses reach their end. We dissect the critical importance of proper disposal and recycling, spotlighting the hidden value in those lithium and nickel components. As we navigate the growing demands for batteries against the slugg

When the roar of an engine doubles as a heartbeat, you know you're in for a thrilling ride. Strap in as we catch up with Antron Brown, three-time NHRA Top Fuel champion, gearing up to ignite the 2024 season with insider details on his ABM Accelerate Program, designed to propel novice speedsters to professional pinnacles. Along with new sponsorships and the shifting landscape of NHRA, we also carve out a moment to honor the towering figure of the late Don Schumacher. His zest for life, whether helming a drag racing dynasty or wrestling with the sea's mightiest catches off-shore,  left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to cross his path.We peel back the curtain on the Gator Nationals, where innovation collides with raw horsepower in an event that's shaking the drag racing world behind the scenes, pairing perfectly with the pulse-pounding suspense of the elite eight qualifiers. In our feature, 'This Week In Auto History',  we look at some automotive evolution, from the birth of

Feel the pulse of innovation and ambition as we gear up with the Loras College Racing Club team, a dynamic group of students whose dreams revolve around the revving engines and the checkered flags of motorsport. Today, JJ, Cam, Jacob, and Jake take us on a thrilling ride through their educational pursuits, from the classrooms of mechanical engineering and computer science right onto the gritty tracks of the Baja SAE project. They candidly share the exhilaration of blending theoretical knowledge with the grease and glory of hands-on vehicle design, and their collective gaze is fixed on the ultimate prize: shaping the future of racing, from IndyCar to the aerodynamic marvels of Formula One.Switching gears, we navigate the challenges and strategy of collegiate racing, particularly in the snow-dusted landscapes of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Our conversation drifts through the importance of selecting the perfect tire tread for the upcoming one-day racing event, and the innovative engineering that keeps their

Join us as we peel back the layers on the ballooning costs of car insurance with Divya Sangam from Lending Tree. With an eye-opening average rate increase of 12.6% sweeping the nation, we uncover some of the factors driving this inflation—from escalating claim costs and the impact of climate disasters to the spike in catalytic converter thefts. You'll learn why the expected pandemic savings never materialized in consumers' wallets and how state insurance boards are entangled with inflation in greenlighting these rate hikes. It's a deep dive into the financial squeeze on American drivers, and a look at an industry grappling with change.We shift into the world of used auto parts, weighing the savings against the risks. We scrutinize whether a second-hand catalytic converter or an ADAS unit is a gamble worth taking, and discuss how companies like LKQ are transforming the market. But what does this mean for your insurance policy? We dissect the relationship between aftermarket parts, potential thef

Uncover the secrets of the automotive supply chain labyrinth with our expert guest Sunderesh Heragu, as he paints a picture of the intricacies involved, from the multilevel supplier to the financial tightrope walked by smaller suppliers. Discover how tariffs can send shockwaves through this complex system, possibly leading to steeper prices that hit our wallets. Plus, enjoy a lighter moment with an anecdote of a wine mishap—proof that even in the world of serious industry talk, there's room for a little spillage and smiles.The plot thickens when we delve into the potential offshore ownership of US Steel and its implications for American industries reliant on steel, like automotive and tin can production. Imagine the irony of tariffs aimed to protect, yet the sale might undermine these very industries—it's a twist worthy of a Hollywood script! We'll also share a chuckle over Sunderesh's savvy in the face of Oklahoma's upcoming winter chill and we preview some car-related happenings.In

Ever wondered what it would feel like to slip behind the wheel of a compact that breaks the mold? Buckle up, as we take the fully redesigned 2024 Subaru Impreza RS for a spin, a vehicle that's tossing its sedan legacy to the curb in favor of a hatchback — or should we say 'hot rod compact wagon' — revolution. Let's just say the traditional hatchback has been given a run for its money with the Impreza's sharp new look, complete with a lower front end and lights that dare you to look away. And for those with a need for speed and style, we muse over the dream that is a WRX-infused future for this blue beauty.Inside, we get cozy with the Impreza's interior, where comfort isn't just a feature; it's a promise. The RS trim cradles you with color-enhanced seating, while the back seat boasts enough legroom to make your adult passengers forget they're in the second row. Performance-wise, we're talking about a 2.5-liter boxer engine that feels just right, though the sire

Eager to know how the 2023 Ford Bronco Heritage Edition stacks up against the legends of the road? Mike Marrs takes a look at this nostalgic beast with a modern twist. In an episode packed with hands-on experience, Mike breaks down the Bronco's standout features—from its eye-catching race red exterior with a white removable top to the cozy heated plaid seats. He shares the nuances of the two-door model's design that pays tribute to the iconic original, right down to the blast-from-the-past manual transmission.Fasten your seatbelts for a test drive that goes beyond the aesthetics, examining the Bronco's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and contemplating if the optional V6 can really enhance the adventure. Mike's feedback on the real-world fuel efficiency and his musings about its off-road prowess in mud and sand will inform your opinion on whether this SUV is more than just a pretty face. Let's not merely daydream about rocky terrains; join us on this journey to discover if the Bronco lives u

Navigating the chaotic aftermath of a car crash can be as befuddling as a corn maze at night, but fear not, because Sergeant Steven Woodard of the Texas DPS State Troopers and is lighting the way with essential crash scene wisdom. Our talk isn't all caution tape and whirring sirens, though—we also peel back the layers on the recent spike in traffic fatalities in Texas and dissect the role of media during police standoffs, all the while keeping it real with personal stories. Buckle up as we share the scoop on new legislations and the vital steps you should take post-accident, including the golden rule of documenting everything with photos.Remember the days when horsepower and the smell of burning rubber were the ultimate Friday night?  We certainly do, and it's why we're contrasting the controlled adrenaline rush of drag racing with the high-stakes gamble of street racing. But as we reminisce about the good ol' days, our conversation fast-forwards to the future of automated vehicles and the

Ready to unlock the secrets of your future ride's reliability?Join us as we sit down with Consumer Reports' very own Mike Quincy to decode the latest findings on what makes a car truly dependable. This isn't about the dazzle of a fresh-off-the-lot shine; we're talking hardcore evidence from a growing list of owner participants sharing information on their vehicles. Whether you're curious about the resilience of hybrids and electrics or simply seeking a trustworthy commuter, you'll get the unvarnished truth on which models are going the distance. Discover why that new car smell doesn't always mean problem-free and which tech advancements could cost you down the road.Ever wonder why some cars have cult followings despite poor report cards? We'll dig into the paradox of beloved Jeeps and the surprising non-influence of recalls on reliability rankings. Listen as Mike illuminates the cautious genius behind Lexus and Toyota's tech strategies that leave others in the rear

Strap in for a wild ride with rally enthusiasts Andy and Mercedes Lilienthal, with Crankshaft Culture, as they take us behind the scenes of beginning their preparations for the grueling Alcan 5000 winter rally. With a no-holds-barred approach, they reveal what it takes to conquer a 5000-mile gauntlet in the grip of Arctic temperatures, sharing the pulse-pounding excitement and the meticulous preparation needed for such an extreme motorsport event. The Lilienthal's also give us a glimpse into their rugged journey piloting the new Ineos Grenadier SUV, designed to withstand the rally's punishing conditions. This episode is a celebration of endurance, resilience, and the fierce spirit required to thrive amidst the relentless chill of winter racing.Cruising down memory lane with our feature - This Week In Automotive History - , we reflect on the monumental shifts in the automotive industry, from the colossal wheels of the MAC truck to the heartrending goodbye to Pontiac. We remember the Chrysler crisis a

Unleash your inner speed demon with expert insights from road racing guru Richard Tomlin as we explore the thrill of SCCA road racing and autocross. Let your passion for high-speed adventure find its home on the track, where legends cut their teeth and everyday drivers sharpen their skills. This episode doesn't just share the secret sauce to joining the racing community; it hands you the keys to a world where tire pressure and alignment are not just maintenance chores, but the alchemy of victory. And if you've wondered why BMWs flock to Richard's shop, Apex Auto, after the holidays, we've got that mystery revved up and ready to roll.Fasten your seatbelt for a drive down memory lane where whimsical car options reflect the evolution of our love affair with automobiles. From in-car record players to the avant-garde espresso machines of the Fiat 500, we pay homage to the quirky touches that define car culture. Moreover, we navigate the changing landscape of auto shows, examining what Stellanti

Rev up your engines and get ready to join us in the latest episode where we crank up our automotive expertise with the help of John Gray from Gulf Coast Auto Shield. Ever wonder how to keep your car’s wheels looking like they just rolled off the showroom floor? Well, John's going to share the secret sauce to fighting off that stubborn brake dust, and trust me, it's a game-changer. With springtime drives calling our name, we're all about keeping our rides in pristine condition – and that means diving into the transformative world of protective coatings and the must-have tools for maintaining that gleam.Picture this: a new 911 GT3 RS, sleek and fierce, just waiting to conquer the open road. As we explore this beauty inside the shop, we find ourselves embroiled in the eternal debate of comfort versus sport seats in high-performance vehicles. But our automotive journey doesn't stop there; prepare to get sudsy as we tackle the virtues of car wash soaps like Maguire's Gold Class. We even ta

Remember the time you tried to set the gap on your spark plugs and ended up with more grease on your shirt than on the car? Ah, those were the days, and in our latest episode, we take a walk down memory lane to chuckle over the automotive tools that now rest in peace, thanks to modern technology.  From the clink of distributor wrenches to the hum of electric motors, this is one episode where past meets future, and every gearhead gets a front-row seat.Now, let's shift gears and talk turkey—and by turkey, we mean the kind that pairs well with whiskey cake and a side of car valuation banter. We may have missed out on dessert, but we sure made up for it with a hearty course of guessing the worth of some classic beauties sold  by Hemmings', like a '78 Corvette Coupe and a '69 Ford Torino. Between the laughter and the head-scratching debates over real versus imitation horseradish, we serve up a glimpse into the culture that fuels our love for the automotive world. Tune in for the nostalgia, stay

When Nik Miles joined us on the podcast, we found ourselves swimming in stories that span from the heartland of America to the scenic West Coast, illustrating how cars and canines can weave together a tapestry of hope. Our journey through Operation Frodo unveils a Christmas narrative that's sure to warm your heart, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Animal Rescue Rigs, volunteers, fellow journalists, and the automotive industry. We dive into the emotional cross-country mission of transporting Beagles, who are often left behind after hunting season, to their forever homes. This episode is a testament to the generosity and community spirit that flourishes when we drive towards a common, noble goal—especially during the holiday season.The discussion takes a turn to the West Coast, where rescue Beagles are surprisingly scarce but highly sought after. We explore the ripple effects of a Midwest puppy mill closure and the strain it puts on a small heartland rescue operation, dealing with a surge of rehom

Rev up your engines and join our trackside talk as we slide into the dusty turns of Texas dirt track racing with the voice of the track, Rodney Rodriguez. We'll pull back the curtain on why the roar of engines and spray of dirt keeps crowds coming back for more, and how the sport's rich history is faring against today's challenges.  As Don Armstrong shares tales from behind the wheel of the rugged yet refined 2023 Land Rover Defender, you'll get a firsthand account of balancing luxury with the call of the wild.  Also, Konrad's got the scoop on upcoming cruises and events to help get through the busy holiday season.Our chatter shifts to somber reflections on the iconic race tracks fading from the rearview and the struggle to keep stands full in the era of streaming events. But it's not all caution flags and pit stops; we're mapping out a thrilling 2024 season, fueling your anticipation for what's on the horizon both on the circuit and in our studio. Hear about the antici

Ready to ride the wave of year-end car savings? Let's peel out of the dealership lot with money still in our pockets, as we cruise through the latest buzz on unbeatable car deals with US News' very own John Vincent. From the allure of 0% financing to the sweet scent of cashback on models like the Nissan Murano, this episode is your GPS to navigating the deals that have auto enthusiasts' engines revving. We're not just talking sales—we're leasing into the future, unveiling why that Kia Forte lease might just be your ticket to a certified pre-owned paradise tomorrow.Shift into high gear as we dissect the strategy behind the timing of car deals and manufacturer incentives. Think of the auto industry as a high-stakes poker game; we're calling Kia's bluff and predicting their next play in the market. Enlighten yourself with the lowdown on the expected demand for the EV9 and the zero-down lease's fine print. Plus, buckle up as we tour the car lot of misfits, where the BMW X7

Gear up for a hot rod sleigh ride through the ultimate car enthusiast's winter wonderland, as we unveil a treasure trove of last-minute Christmas gift ideas that'll put your holiday shopping into overdrive. Forget about the night before Christmas; this is the scramble you'll actually enjoy, with gift suggestions ranging from muscle machine calendars to classic Mustang tote bags that are sure to make any auto aficionado's heart race. Get a sneak peek at the niche finds from Hobby Lobby's automotive aisle, and well even let you in on the exclusive merchandise revving up our own website. Plus, we'll toss in some festive banter about our favorite holiday drinks and Yeti tumblers - who knew these could double as the perfect stocking stuffer for your beloved gearhead?But wait, there's more than just gifts to be had in this episode. Join us on a cruise through Walmart’s automotive section for practical gadgets that promise to enhance any driving experience, like crucial tire inflat