In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Curious about the evolution of auto shows and the latest industry trends? Join us as we sit down with RoShelle Salinas from the Houston Auto Show, who brings a wealth of insider knowledge. RoShelle shares exciting updates on the meticulous planning efforts for upcoming shows, including Detroit's return to its January schedule. Discover how collaborative initiatives are transforming logistics and data collection, making auto shows a magnet for manufacturers. Plus, get the scoop on the Houston Auto Show's new dates and what attendees can expect, from EV ride and drives to special discounts and VIP experiences.We also uncover the influential role that auto shows play in consumer decision-making, with a particular focus on how brands like Lexus leverage these events to reach new audiences. With steady sales despite economic turbulence, auto dealers are navigating a complex landscape, and we discuss the rise of electric vehicles and the incentives driving this shift. Stay tuned for a deep dive into Nissa

Ready to revel in the glory of classic cars and futuristic rides? Join us for a riveting episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show where we explore the captivating world of automobiles. We start with a sneak peek of Jeff's deep dive into the funky 70s Shaggin' Wagons, followed by Mars' comprehensive review of the sleek 2024 Dodge Hornet. Our highlight segment features Richard Jones from the Mustang Club of Houston, who shares the inspiring journey of the club, exciting upcoming events, and the impressive performance of his own 2020 EcoBoost Mustang. Marvel at how modern advancements have revolutionized Mustang engines and get ready to mark your calendars for some must-attend car shows!Ever wondered what makes the 1970s Shaggin' Wagons so iconic? We’ve got the answers and a whole lot of laughs as we navigate through the quirky culture of these vintage vans. Plus, don't miss out on our in-depth review of the 2024 Dodge Hornet GT—a car that promises both style and substance. From its st

Ever wondered how much a 2009 Pontiac Solstice really goes for at auction? Or what happens when a high school coach catches you flipping nickels? Tune into this episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show for a unique mix of automotive insights and nostalgic storytelling. We start with some light-hearted fun at our "BYOS" event—bring your own story, steak, or shrimp—and introduce Mike's granddaughter, Paige, who’s about to embark on her senior year of high school. Don Armstrong shares a hilarious high school tale that you won't forget, and we dive into the Hemings Sold Car Weekly Roundup, guessing the prices of various cars and sprinkling in some humor along the way.In the second half, we tackle serious issues with a touch of wit and wisdom. From auction prices of a 1969 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia to safety recalls involving Tesla's software and Nissan Ariya's power loss, we cover it all. We also discuss the latest in modern automotive technology and its potential pitfalls. Plus, you

What happens when the future of racing meets cutting-edge electric technology? Tune in to the latest episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show, where we explore the electrifying world of Formula E racing with our special guest, Ross Smith, straight from the FIA garage in Portland, Oregon. We uncover the thrilling dynamics of this all-electric series, delving into the nuances that set it apart from Formula 1, such as identical spec cars and strategic boosts. Ross provides an insider’s perspective on suspension tweaks, 400-horsepower motors, and the unique parallels between racing strategies and Olympic cycling.But that's not all. We shift gears to review the off-road beast, the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4X, with its rugged capabilities and state-of-the-art features. Ross also shares his personal experiences as the Houston representative for Garages of America, offering practical tips for maintaining your own automotive workspace. With light-hearted banter, personal anecdotes, and a special guest appearance from

Ever wondered what makes the 2024 GMC Canyon 4WD AT4X Crew Cab the ultimate off-road beast? Join us as Mr. Marrs takes you through a review of this rugged truck, loaded with the game-changing AEV package. This episode guarantees you'll discover the truck's standout features, from its 19-inch beadlock-capable wheels and 35-inch tires to its innovative multi-stow tailgate. We'll also break down how the LED lighting, robust skid plates, and rock rails make this midsize pickup a formidable choice for any adventure.Inside, prepare to be wowed by the luxurious leather seating and cutting-edge technology, including an 11.3-inch touchscreen and a driver-centric 11-inch digital instrument cluster. We'll discuss the Premier Bose audio system and the truck’s thoughtful, yet quirky, design elements, like the rearview visibility issues caused by the spare tire mount. Don't miss Mr. Marrs' candid take on why this truck is both a powerhouse and a practical choice for daily use. If you're a

What if your next car could redefine what you expect from a Chevrolet? Join us as we uncover the game-changing features of the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV. This episode promises to demystify this electric marvel, which boasts a sleek, modern design and two distinct trim levels: the 2LT and RS all-wheel drive. Discover how it shares its versatile platform with the Cadillac Lyric and Chevy Equinox EV, and why this makes it a standout in the EV market. We'll also dive into its eye-catching exterior with tri-tail lights, and a sophisticated two-tone interior that feels more like a luxury vehicle than a traditional Chevy.We'll share our firsthand driving experience, highlighting the Blazer EV's impressive performance with a two-motor setup and a remarkable 300-mile range on a single charge. You’ll learn about practical aspects like charging convenience and some quirky features, such as the flashing headlights during charging that could use some tweaking. With a focus on ride quality, pricing, and overa

What happens when you blend the wit of Johnny Carson with the electrifying world of cars? Join us as we welcome the charismatic Jack Nerad, often dubbed the Johnny Carson of car talk, alongside Paige, Marrs' budding broadcaster granddaughter. We'll share some laughs over first cars—like Paige's trusty Nissan Versa Note and Don's daughter's memorable Ford Focus—before Jack gives us the lowdown on the Chevrolet Blazer EV. He even sizes it up against the Cadillac Lyric, making this a must-listen for any car enthusiast who loves good banter with their auto news.But that's just the beginning. We'll navigate the bumpy road of the car industry's shift to electric vehicles, spotlighting major players like Stellantis and General Motors and their transition trials. Prepare to hear about Ford's never-ending recall saga and Toyota's costly engine issues. You'll also learn about Pro-Am Auto Accessories' global expansion and the incredible charitable work of God&a

Ever wondered what it takes to transition from motorcycle racing to piloting a Nitro Dragster at mind-boggling speeds? Join us on the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show as we welcome NHRA Drag Racing Champion, Angelle Sampey. Hear her recount the adrenaline-pumping journey from her first bewildering pass to finding comfort at immense velocities. With invaluable training from legends like Antron Brown and the Mihalik Brothers, Angelle unveils her aspirations for Top Fuel racing and emphasizes her resolve to drive on her own terms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the high-octane world of drag racing.In addition to Angelle's riveting racing tales, we dive into the demanding preparations required for drag racing success, accentuating the mental shifts from motorcycle to car racing and the critical role of the practice tree in honing reaction times. Stay updated with the latest automotive news, including the Andretti and Cadillac bid for Formula 1 and the drama surrounding it. We also provi

Ever wondered what happens when your brand-new car turns out to be a lemon? Join us for a compelling conversation with Eric Stotz, the COO of Lemon Law Experts, as he shares riveting insights into the world of lemon laws and consumer advocacy. Discover how his firm fights for the rights of those stuck with faulty vehicles, and hear a real-life story about a 2024 pickup truck plagued with engine troubles. Eric also sheds light on the growing issue of major car recalls, discussing the hefty costs and challenges manufacturers like Toyota face when recalling hundreds of thousands of vehicles.Wann'a look at the full study of what makes us the angriest?  Check this out ... https://lemonlawexperts.com/cars-that-make-americans-the-angriest/But that's not all—we pack this episode with the latest automotive news and racing highlights, from Indy to NASCAR. Take a nostalgic ride through automotive history, revisiting the iconic Ford Edsel and the Plymouth Roadrunner. Plus, we tackle pressing industry challenges

Curious about the camaraderie and thrilling adventures of Jeep enthusiasts? Tune in as we chat with Tim and Mark from the Lone Star Jeep Club, who share their exhilarating experiences in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. From the heart-pounding Black Bear Pass to the scenic Imogene trail, Mark unveils his innovative "crawler hauler" setup that combines comfort and rugged capability for the ultimate off-road adventure. You'll gain insights into the dynamic world of Jeep off-roading and the strong community that binds enthusiasts together, regardless of where they call home.Ever wondered about the dangers and safety tips for off-roading? Our gripping recount of a brake failure on Black Bear Pass underscores the critical importance of preparedness. We discuss essential safety measures, upcoming events like the beginner-friendly 101 off-roading class, and a memorable run in Davis, Oklahoma. Get valuable tips on navigating various terrains, the importance of communication, and details about an exc

What if a simple hand gesture could save your life? Join us on the latest episode of the In Real Time Car Talk Show as we unlock the forgotten art of using hand signals while driving. Whether you're a seasoned driver or just getting your license, we'll walk you through the essential moves that could be your backup plan when technology fails. From left turns to slowing down, we guarantee you'll leave this episode with a newfound confidence in your signaling skills.Remember the days of driver's ed and those quirky hand signals? We're bringing them back with a twist of humor and practical advice. As we break down each signal with detailed explanations and share some laugh-out-loud anecdotes, we'll also touch on how these gestures are a crucial safety measure for cyclists and motorcyclists. Tune in for a ride down memory lane that's both informative and entertaining—perfect for anyone who wants to keep the roads a bit safer for everyone.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Tim

How can a Tesla Model 3 help shape the future of automotive education? Join us as we chat with Hugh Mann from Houston Community College, who brings fascinating insights into their cutting-edge automotive training programs. You will learn about the diverse mix of students, from fresh high school graduates to seasoned hobbyists, and how they’re using innovative tools such as a chopped-up Tesla Model 3 to teach electric vehicle technology. Hugh also shares exciting news about the expansion of their diesel program, now offering an associate degree and ongoing training for city technicians. Plus, we share some light-hearted moments discussing our Olympic weekend viewing and even throw in a fun fact about groups of squirrels.Discover the evolution of automotive technology in our deep dive into classic carbureted engines, modern fuel injection systems, and contemporary innovations like Tesla's cutaway models. We also shine a spotlight on the Texas Elite Auto Showcase at NRG, where attendees can interact with HC

What does it take to conquer the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb? Brace yourself as we dive into the electric atmosphere of this storied race, dissecting the grueling 12.43-mile ascent with its 153 hair-raising corners and staggering 5,800 feet of elevation gain. We'll take you inside the cockpit of a Lexus RX 450 H+ for a firsthand account of the white-knuckle drive up Pikes Peak, and offer a ringside seat to the meticulous training regimes of elite competitors like Romain Dumas and Hyundai's WRC champions. Uncover the vital role simulators play in preparing for the race, and marvel at the bravery required to tackle the mountain without guardrails.Switching gears, we send a big shout-out to Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works for his outstanding achievement before breaking down the timeless necessity of hand signals in driving and cycling. Remember the hand signals for left turns, right turns, and stopping? We revisit their historical importance and current relevance, especially when ve

Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled episode as we welcome Sarah Vidrine to discuss the thrilling Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge. Ever wondered how the transition from the closed Texas Raceway in Kennedale is impacting the upcoming racing season? Sarah sheds light on the intricacies of bracket racing formats, quarter-mile, and eighth-mile races, and fascinating details about gear changes and engine modifications. With the season hitting its halfway mark, we invite you to join or spectate the exciting upcoming race in Ennis and become part of this electrifying community.Curious about how you can join the competition and earn points for your club? We explain the Texas Muscle Car Club Point Rankings and how both club-affiliated and street-driven cars can compete. Even if you join on race day, you can start earning points thanks to the welcoming nature of most clubs. Listen to heartwarming stories of camaraderie among participants and hear about the unsung heroes like Martha, the ever-reliable points keeper who ra

Ever wondered how age impacts driver safety and insurance costs? Join us in this thrilling episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show as we discuss the staggering new statistics about aging drivers with Divya Sangam from Value Penguin. We also reveal the incredible specs of the newly unveiled 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, a beast of a car boasting 1,064 horsepower and vying to dethrone luxury imports like the Porsche 911. Divya shares eye-opening insights and personal stories that highlight the challenges older drivers face, including the alarming fact that drivers aged 70 and older now account for one in four fatal crashes. But that's not all! We tackle the financial hurdles elderly drivers encounter as their insurance premiums spike after age 80 and explore innovative solutions, like programs that allow seniors to demonstrate their safety and earn discounts. We also highlight alternatives to personal vehicles, such as community amenities and shuttle services, essential for seniors on fixed incomes. And

Ever wondered how the experts bring vintage car interiors back to life with such precision? Join us as Chris Compton from Distinctive Industries shares his deep knowledge and passion for factory replacement upholstery and interior parts. From Mustangs to Datsun Roadsters, and their game-changing fully assembled seats for pro touring and resto mod projects, Chris walks us through the meticulous craftsmanship involved. Plus, enjoy some amusing banter about early wake-up calls and college football rivalries that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.In the second half of the show, Chris takes us on a captivating historical tour of automotive upholstery from the late '60s to today. Learn about the game-changing impact of bucket seats and the intricate challenges of color matching in vintage car restorations. We also explore the pitfalls of imitation products and the importance of sourcing from reputable suppliers. As we wrap up, get your fix of racing updates, including NASCAR, NHRA, and Formula One, along

Ever wondered what makes a Porsche stand out from the crowd? This episode features an enlightening conversation with author Randy Leffingwell, who shares his passion for Porsche and his new book, "Against All the Others: Porsche's Racing History, Volume One." Randy takes us on a journey through Porsche’s rich racing heritage, starting with Ferdinand Porsche's first car race in 1899. Gain invaluable insights as Randy discusses the meticulous research behind his book, including exclusive access to Porsche's archives and the challenges of translating historical documents. And if you've ever been curious about the correct way to pronounce Porsche, Randy settles the debate once and for all. But that's not all! We also dive into a thrilling review of the 2024 Acura Integra Type S. Imagine a car with an edgy design, aggressive styling, and a 320-horsepower turbocharged engine that promises an unforgettable driving experience. From the sleek six-speed manual transmission to standout

What happens when technical glitches prevent our expert guest from joining us? We pivot to some of the most pressing issues in the automotive industry! From the United Auto Workers (UAW) union's slow-paced reforms and entrenched culture of fear to the alarming rise in vehicle thefts at dealerships, particularly in Michigan, this episode is packed with critical insights. We also unpack the significant financial and operational disruptions caused by the CDK Global cyberattack, underscoring the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures in the industry. Plus, we draw parallels to a recent coding error in the airline sector, highlighting the broader vulnerabilities many industries face today.Ever wondered how to tackle flood damage on your car? We provide hands-on advice for appraising and documenting flooded vehicles to negotiate better insurance settlements, emphasizing the importance of meticulous documentation and battery disconnection to minimize electronic damage. Alongside useful tips, we celebra

What if you could save thousands by leasing a pre-owned electric vehicle instead of buying new? Join us on the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show as we sit down with Nathan Wyeth from Octopus Electric Vehicle Leasing and delighted customer Ashley Greenlee. Nathan sheds light on the advantages of leasing pre-owned EVs, addressing common concerns about battery life and showcasing the smooth, silent drive and long lifespan of these vehicles. Ashley provides firsthand insights into her experience with a leased Tesla Model 3 Long Range, highlighting the convenience and cost savings that come with going electric.Considering an electric vehicle but worried about maintenance and insurance hassles? Nathan walks us through the logistics of leasing with Octopus Electric Vehicles, including flexible lease terms, the option to purchase at lease-end, and how insurance and maintenance are managed. Ashley shares her hassle-free experience with home and public charging, and how the EV lifestyle suits young drivers with its minimal m

Ever wondered about the intricacies of navigating four-way stops or the latest updates from the Texas Department of Public Safety? Join us as Sergeant Steve Woodard shares his expertise, delves into recent tech glitches affecting DPS systems, and recounts his storm survival stories. Plus, we get a peek into his fascinating collection of state trooper hats and discuss the collaborative efforts of troopers aiding communities like Matagorda County during hurricanes. It's a riveting segment that combines practical traffic safety tips with real-life experiences from the front lines.If you're a car aficionado, you won't want to miss our reflections on the Lone Star Street Rod Association State Run in Granbury. We capture the event's unique charm and showcase some of the remarkable cars on display. Our journey doesn't stop there; the Hot Rod Tour of Texas takes center stage as we chart the scenic route through central Texas, highlighting the camaraderie among participants and the enthusiasti