In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Beyond the highways and byways lies a world of hidden automotive treasures most people never discover. Our journey begins in Houston, uncovering six remarkable destinations that fly under most visitors' radars.We explore the Sam Houston Boat Tour, offering free 90-minute cruises that reveal the bustling Port of Houston from a completely different perspective. Then we venture into Buffalo Bayou Park, a surprising 160-acre natural oasis nestled right in downtown Houston, complete with walking trails and family-friendly activities. For automotive enthusiasts, we uncover the Art Car Museum (affectionately called "Garage Mahal"), showcasing vehicles transformed into rolling works of art. Just outside the city, we visit the impressive Hemi Hideout, housing an extraordinary collection of restored Mopars and Americana in a 21,000-square-foot facility that's an attraction all its own. Racing fans will appreciate our discovery of the Houston Motorsports Museum, preserving Texas racing heritage with

Roger Penske's integrity-first approach rocks the racing world as Team Penske faces unprecedented sanctions just days before the Indianapolis 500. We break down exactly what happened—modified attenuators on Josef Newgarden and Will Power's cars sent both championship contenders to the back of the grid, while three top Penske executives were fired. The technical violation might seem minor to casual fans (smoothing an edge on a safety component), but as we explain, it represents a significant breach of trust from racing's most respected team owner.The timing couldn't be worse for Newgarden, who was pursuing a historic three-peat at the Indy 500. We discuss how this follows another technical violation discovered in April regarding improper access to push-to-pass systems, creating a troubling pattern for the team that owns both the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the IndyCar Series itself.Beyond the racing scandal, we explore Mercedes-Benz's strategic expansion in Atlanta, where the Germa

What happens when you love a car so much you keep it for half a century? Steve Larsen knows. As our special guest this week, he shares the incredible journey chronicled in his book "My Heart Has Been In It From the Start," featuring what he calls his "Yellow Trilogy" - three iconic yellow vehicles that paralleled major chapters in his life.Steve's story begins with a 1969 Lotus Elan he purchased at 21 and kept for 50 years. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Steve reveals how life's compartments rarely intersect - his motorcycle journalism readers know nothing of his business career, while his business associates have no clue about his three open-heart surgeries. This reflection strikes a chord with all of us on the show, recognizing how our automotive passions often exist in their own separate universes from other parts of our identities.The episode shifts gears with Don's detailed review of the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor. From its impressive 3.0-liter twin-turbo E

Your summer road trip deserves more than just a quick rinse at the gas station car wash. In this engaging episode, we're joined by detailing expert Cireen Piz from Gulf Coast Auto Shield who reveals professional-grade car cleaning secrets that anyone can use at home.Ever wondered why your dashboard keeps cracking despite using Armor All? Cireen explains why this popular product is actually damaging your interior and what pros use instead. You'll learn why one bucket isn't enough when washing your car, how to properly clean those mysterious spaces between seats where french-fries go to die, and why makeup brushes might be your new favorite detailing tool.The conversation takes unexpected turns with brilliant hacks that will transform your cleaning routine. Discover why dryer sheets make excellent emergency air fresheners, how a modified toilet brush can deep-clean floor mats better than any vacuum, and the correct way to treat tires for a showroom-quality finish without that artificial, slick ap

What happens when you combine vehicle recalls, classic car auctions, and a fresh review of the 2025 Ford Ranger? You get a journey through today's automotive landscape that every car enthusiast needs to hear.The automotive recall landscape continues to evolve - Ford leads the pack with 273,789 SUVs.  This includes 2022-2024 Expeditions and Navigators—recalled for potential brake failure issues. Meanwhile, Hyundai faces a particularly worrying situation with its 2025 Palisade SUVs, where electric oil pumps may overheat and cause fires. These recalls show the complex relationship between advancing automotive technology and reliability.The Sold Cars Roundup delivers unexpected surprises when exploring recent classic car auction results. A 1966 Pontiac Firebird convertible commanding $54,600 and a 1966 GTO convertible fetching an astounding $68,250 demonstrate the premium value of original classics. Meanwhile, a 1975 Buick LeSabre "three-holer" drop-top sold for just $8,650, proving that not all cl

The automotive landscape continues to evolve, but midsize pickups maintain their special appeal—offering substantial capability without the urban parking nightmares of their full-size counterparts. Ford's completely redesigned 2024 Ranger emerges as a compelling option in this space, bringing sophisticated design and impressive performance credentials to the segment.Jeff's Car Culture takes a look at some of the Muscle Car Misses that no one really misses.Then we get a look at the Mustang GT - the 7th generation of an iconic pony car that started an automotive revolution.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever y

The landscape of car buying has shifted dramatically in recent months, and our conversation with Carfax's Patrick Olson offers a roadmap through this evolving terrain. With potential tariffs looming and inventory dynamics changing, timing your purchase—whether new or used—has never been more strategic.For those eyeing new vehicles, Patrick reveals a compelling window of opportunity. Dealers currently hold substantial pre-tariff inventory they're eager to move, creating favorable conditions for buyers ready to act. The numbers tell the story: March and early April saw sales double compared to last year as savvy consumers race to beat anticipated price increases.The used market, particularly for sedans, presents extraordinary value propositions. While Americans continue their love affair with trucks and SUVs, gently-used Honda Civics, Accords, Chevy Malibus, and Toyota Camrys offer reliable, fuel-efficient transportation at remarkably accessible price points. Parents considering vehicles for teens sho

The summer driving season is upon us, and with it comes unique challenges on Texas roads. Texas Department of Public Safety, Sergeant Steve Woodard joins us from the Bolivar Peninsula ferry to share critical insights about what motorists should watch for, especially as driver's license offices prepare for an influx of teen drivers seeking their first licenses.Calling in from his patrol vehicle, Sgt. Woodard delivers sobering statistics from a recent beach weekend enforcement operation that resulted in 87 arrests, 91 misdemeanor citations, and approximately 15 felonies in a single night. The conversation reveals how what once began as community gatherings have unfortunately evolved into problematic events requiring significant law enforcement presence. The hosts reflect on their own experiences witnessing this transformation over the years, having participated in these gatherings before they became problematic.As summer approaches, parents of new drivers will want to heed Trooper Woodard's advice on

Every once in a while, you discover a hidden gem that makes you wonder why you hadn't found it sooner. That's exactly how we felt when we first visited Granbury, Texas – and why we're thrilled to return for the Lone Star Street Rod Association's milestone 50th anniversary celebration.Tammy Dooley, Granbury's tourism expert, joins us to unveil what makes this charming town of just 11,000 residents the self-proclaimed "Celebration Capital of Texas." With tourism as their number one industry, Granbury has perfected the art of welcoming visitors with thoughtful amenities that transform an ordinary visit into a memorable experience.You'll discover how Granbury balances small-town charm with visitor-friendly infrastructure, including their newly upgraded fleet of free historic trolleys connecting hotels with downtown and event venues. Tammy shares insider details about the upcoming Street Rod event featuring over 200 classic cars, special performances, and celebratory activit

Car enthusiasts, gather round! Automotive wisdom flows freely as the In Wheel Time team dives into the ever-evolving world of automobiles, from classic treasures to modern engineering marvels.The episode opens with a worrying trend in automotive recalls, where Mercedes and Ford once again take center stage. Particularly concerning is GM's recall of numerous 2021-2024 models—including Cadillac Escalades, Chevrolet Silverados, and GMC Yukons—for complete engine failures. The hosts reminisce about how such catastrophic failures were once rare occurrences, usually resulting from driver abuse rather than manufacturing defects.Lightening the mood, the team engages in their popular Hemmings Sold Car Roundup segment, attempting to guess selling prices of classics like a butternut yellow 1966 Pontiac GTO convertible clone ($19,425), a pristine 1966 Lincoln Continental convertible ($66,100), and even a 1929 American LaFrance fire truck ($40,425). Their wildly varied guesses highlight just how unpredictable the col

When Ford refreshes an icon like the Explorer, we pay attention. The 2025 Explorer Active arrives as the sixth generation of this staple American SUV, refined with subtle but meaningful updates that enhance the driving experience without sacrificing what loyal fans love about the model.Behind the wheel of this Chicago-assembled standard SUV, we immediately noticed the responsive 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque through a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. The wide power band provides confident acceleration when merging or passing, while returning a respectable 21.5 MPG over our 451-mile test drive. With a towing capacity of 5,300 pounds, it balances everyday drivability with weekend adventure capabilities.The Explorer's interior shows Ford's commitment to modern technology and comfort. The cockpit features a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster paired with an all-new 13.2-inch touchscreen housing infotainment, navigation, and vehicle controls. Android

Dave Sowers brings electrifying news from Ram as the brand accelerates into an exciting future under returning leadership. The conversation kicks off with a glimpse at Ram's strategic shift toward more affordable options with the 2026 Ram 1500 Express. Starting at $44,495, this new trim delivers attitude and value in equal measure, featuring 20-inch wheels and monochromatic styling that makes a statement without breaking the bank.The real story unfolds when Sowers dives into the technical innovations powering Ram's lineup. The optional Hurricane straight-six engine steals the spotlight, cranking out 420 horsepower – more than the previous V8 – while delivering improved emissions and fuel economy. For those wanting extra visual impact, the Black Express package transforms the truck with blacked-out wheels, badges, and accents available in several eye-catching colors including the new Forged Blue.Heavy-duty enthusiasts have even more reason to celebrate as Sowers reveals the 6.7-liter high-output Cumm

Summer brings longer days and more drivers on the road—and unfortunately, a spike in accidents caused by reckless behavior. What makes some states deadlier than others when it comes to dangerous driving? The answers might surprise you.Join us as we explore the shocking statistics behind reckless driving fatalities across America with insurance expert Divya Sangam from LendingTree's Value Penguin. Montana tops the nation with reckless driving death rates five times the national average, despite its sparse population. The culprits? Remote roads, extreme weather, and delayed emergency response times creating a perfect storm when drivers take unnecessary risks.The geographic patterns tell a fascinating story. Mountainous states like West Virginia and Colorado rank second and third for reckless driving deaths, while South Dakota recorded zero such fatalities during the five-year study period. We unpack why terrain, weather conditions, and driving culture contribute to these stark differences.Beyond the statis

The automotive landscape is rapidly evolving beyond traditional gasoline engines, and navigating the options can be overwhelming. Alex Kwanton from US News joins us to break down their 2025 Best Hybrids and Electric Vehicles awards, revealing which electrified options truly deliver value, performance, and efficiency without compromise.Remember when buying a hybrid meant settling for a tiny, underpowered econobox? Those days are gone. The Toyota Camry—now exclusively offered as a hybrid—leads the pack with an impressive 44-51 mpg while costing thousands less than competitors. It's joined by standouts like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Lexus NX Hybrid that blend efficiency with genuine driving pleasure.The electric vehicle conversation takes us from the astonishing 512-mile range of the Lucid Air to the genuine off-road capability of the Rivian R1S. We explore how these premium offerings justify their price tags through groundbreaking technology and luxury experiences. Meanwhile, more accessible options li

Automotive artistry takes center stage as we visit Georgia's Savoy Auto Museum with curator Mary Agrusa. Unlike typical car museums focusing solely on mechanics, the Savoy presents vehicles as cultural artifacts for artistic appreciation, complete with historical storytelling.Mary reveals how Cartersville has become Georgia's "museum city" with four major institutions. The Savoy Museum itself features display techniques allowing 360-degree viewing with lighting that showcases each vehicle's design elegance. The museum's approach to interpretation, where each car's technical specs mix with historical significance, and often surprising backstories—like the unrestored 1925 Model T purchased under the strict condition it would never be restored, preserving its authentic century-old character.The Savoy connects with its community, including partnerships with local schools to encourage students to participate in prestigious events like the Great Race, fostering a new generation of

Slip behind the wheel of luxury as we explore the redesigned 2025 Lincoln Nautilus, a midsize SUV that's redefining automotive elegance. From the moment you lay eyes on its symmetrical wheel openings and sophisticated body sculpting to the Black Label grille adorned with chrome star-like dots, this vehicle demands attention for all the right reasons.The true revelation happens inside the cabin, where Lincoln has implemented a revolutionary door-to-door digital display that spans the entire dashboard. This stunning technological achievement, paired with adjustable massage seating and premium materials throughout, creates an interior experience that left our reviewers speechless. Despite being assembled in Hangzhou, China, the Nautilus maintains its distinctly American luxury character with a smooth, comfortable ride that makes every journey a pleasure.Powered by a capable 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, the Nautilus balances performance with efficien

Luxury car enthusiasts, mark your calendars! We're joined by RoShelle Salinas to reveal an exciting pop-up luxury ride and drive event happening May 9-10 at The Revere venue near Old Katy Road and 610. This last-minute addition to Houston's automotive calendar addresses a gap many noticed during January's Houston Auto Show - the absence of certain high-end brands that many were eager to experience.The collaborative event brings together luxury and electric vehicles that are currently on the market, all in one convenient location without the typical dealership pressure. Imagine test driving a Maserati, then hopping into the new Lucid Gravity, followed by experiencing Porsche's electric lineup with the Macan EV and Taycan - all within a single morning. Mercedes-Benz is bringing  the EQS sedan, GLE plug-in hybrid, and will have the electric G-Wagon and a Maybach on display.What makes this event particularly special is its accessibility. At just $8 per ticket, anyone 18+ with a valid driver&ap

Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal take us on a deep dive into their ambitious plans to traverse the Transamerica Trail - a 7,100-mile network of back roads, dirt paths, and trails stretching from North Carolina to Oregon. This adventure represents the ultimate American road trip for off-road enthusiasts who want to experience the country's hidden landscapes.With years of experience between them, the Lilienthals break down the preparation required for their month-long journey. Their 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness will serve as both transportation and home base.  Outfitted with a rooftop tent, recovery gear, specialized lighting, reinforced components, and carefully considered power management solutions to make a long stay feasible. Mercedes explains her methodical approach to navigation, using a combination of digital GPX files and traditional paper maps to guide their path across 15 states.What makes this journey particularly challenging is the ever-changing nature of the trail itself. Recent hurricanes and

What happens when 300+ hot rods descend upon Houston's best-kept secret? We found out when the Hot Rod Tour of Texas rolled into Spindle Tap Brewery, transforming this hidden north Houston gem into a classic car paradise.Bobby Sparkman, the mastermind behind the tour, shared with us how the journey began with 302 vehicles cruising across Texas. Though a few participants encountered mechanical challenges along the way—including one enthusiast who decided that blowing a transmission was the perfect excuse for an upgrade—the spirit of the tour remained undiminished with over 200 hot rods continuing the adventure.The real discovery of our broadcast was Spindle Tap Brewery itself. Elizabeth Valentine, their Marketing and Events Manager, pulled back the curtain on this nine-year-old establishment that's far more than just a place to grab a craft beer. Sprawling across 3.5 acres, this family-friendly venue offers everything from putt-putt golf to cornhole tournaments, multiple music stages, and enough spac

Take a ride with us as we catch up with the Hot Rod Tour of Texas at Spindletap Brewery on Houston's north side. What started four years ago as a modest gathering has evolved into a 300-car caravan of classic automobiles winding through the scenic back roads of the Lone Star State.Tour organizer Jeremy reveals the behind-the-scenes efforts that make this automotive adventure possible – months of scouting routes, coordinating police escorts, and finding unique venues that can accommodate hundreds of vintage vehicles. The tour deliberately avoids highways and toll roads, instead taking participants through charming small towns where children line up outside schools to wave at the procession of rumbling engines.The heart of the Hot Rod Tour isn't just about the impressive machinery – it's about the community that forms when car enthusiasts share the open road. When a breakdown occurs, multiple vehicles pull over to help. One participant even brought a trailer specifically to assist anyone experien