{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"#2598: The Not-So-Itsy-Bitsy Spider","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/2598-the-not-so-itsy-bitsy-spider","audioUrl":"https://prfx.byspotify.com/e/play.podtrac.com/npr-510208/traffic.megaphone.fm/NPR2311163880.mp3?t=podcast&e=nx-s1-5636700&p=510208&d=2110&size=33763666","description":"Gina was tooling along a local country road when an humongous spider descended in front of her eyes and into her lap. She doesn’t have any questions about removing stains from upholstery but there is the matter of the hedges and lawn furniture she wiped out as she careened down the embankment towards the waterfront. Brace for impact and check out this episode of The Best of Car Talk.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy"},"annotations":[{"startTime":365.0,"endTime":370.2,"type":"term","title":"clutch","url":"/glossary/clutch","quote":"Did you burn the clutch out? Exactly what I was going to ask.","canonicalId":"term:clutch","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The clutch is a mechanical device that engages and disengages the engine from the wheels, allowing the driver to change gears in a manual transmission vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"A clutch is a part of some cars that helps you change gears. It connects and disconnects the engine from the wheels, which is important for driving smoothly."}},{"startTime":365.0,"endTime":370.2,"type":"term","title":"automatic transmission","url":"/glossary/automatic-transmission","quote":"No, it's an automatic.","canonicalId":"term:automatic-transmission","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An automatic transmission automatically changes the gear ratios as the vehicle moves, allowing the driver to focus on steering and acceleration without needing to manually shift gears.","simplifiedExplanation":"An automatic transmission is a type of car system that changes gears for you, so you don't have to do it yourself. It makes driving easier, especially in traffic."}},{"startTime":370.16,"endTime":378.56,"type":"car","title":"Subaru Outback","url":"/cars/subaru/outback","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/fa/Nissan_PATROL_NISMO_%28Y62%29_used_as_a_SUPER_GT_FIRST_RESCUE_OPERATION_and_Subaru_LEGACY_OUTBACK_%28DBA-BS9%29_used_as_a_SUPER_GT_First_Rescue_Operation_Car.jpg","quote":"No, it's an automatic. It is. It is. It's a pretty new car. It's a 97 or 98 Subaru Outback Sport.","canonicalId":"car:subaru:outback","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Subaru Outback Sport is a compact crossover that combines the features of a station wagon with the ruggedness of an SUV. It is known for its all-wheel drive and practicality, making it popular for outdoor enthusiasts.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Subaru Outback Sport is a type of car that is good for both city driving and off-road adventures. It's designed to be versatile and can handle different types of terrain.","imageAttribution":"Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0"}},{"startTime":409.1,"endTime":412.56,"type":"term","title":"metal sound","url":"/glossary/metal-sound","quote":"It's almost like a metal sound dragging on the ground.","canonicalId":"term:metal-sound","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A metal sound in a vehicle can indicate various issues, such as worn brake pads, loose components, or problems with the suspension. It's important to diagnose the source to prevent further damage.","simplifiedExplanation":"A metal sound coming from a car can mean something is wrong, like parts are rubbing together or something is loose. It's a good idea to check it out to avoid bigger problems."}},{"startTime":462.5,"endTime":488.1,"type":"part","title":"heat shield","url":"/glossary/heat-shield","quote":"Well, my answer is that you have a loose heat shield. And what you're hearing is the little sheet metal of the heat shield rattling and it's a benign little noise. And where is the heat shield located? The heat shield on this car. Outside of the re-entry rockets. Right. The heat shield is everywhere. The heat shield runs from stem to stern on the exhaust system on this car.","canonicalId":"part:heat-shield","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A heat shield is a component used in vehicles to protect other parts from the high temperatures generated by the exhaust system. It is typically made of metal or other heat-resistant materials and is installed around the exhaust system to prevent heat damage to nearby components.","simplifiedExplanation":"A heat shield is a part of the car that keeps other parts safe from getting too hot. It wraps around the exhaust system to protect things nearby from the heat it produces."}},{"startTime":493.5,"endTime":498.3,"type":"part","title":"catalytic converter","url":"/glossary/catalytic-converter","quote":"...the catalytic converter and the tailpipe, you name it. There's a heat shield. And it could be any one of those heat shields that's come loose...","canonicalId":"part:catalytic-converter","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A catalytic converter is an essential component of a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions by converting toxic gases into less harmful substances before they exit the exhaust. It plays a crucial role in meeting environmental regulations.","simplifiedExplanation":"The catalytic converter helps clean up the car's exhaust gases to make them less harmful to the environment. It's an important part of the car's exhaust system."}},{"startTime":530.7,"endTime":538.2,"type":"part","title":"rotor","url":"/glossary/rotor","quote":"...maybe a rotor is just barely touching it.","canonicalId":"part:rotor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"In automotive terms, a rotor refers to the disc component of a disc brake system that the brake pads clamp down on to create friction and slow the vehicle. It's crucial for effective braking performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"A rotor is a round metal part in the car's braking system. When you press the brake pedal, the brake pads squeeze the rotor to help stop the car."}},{"startTime":609.4,"endTime":614.2,"type":"term","title":"wheel bearings","url":"/glossary/wheel-bearing","quote":"...paying for a transmission, CV joints, wheel bearings. Oh, here's what you do...","canonicalId":"term:wheel-bearing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Wheel bearings are components that allow the wheels to rotate with minimal friction. They support the weight of the vehicle and enable smooth wheel movement, which is crucial for safe driving and handling.","simplifiedExplanation":"Wheel bearings help your car's wheels turn easily. They support the weight of the car and make sure the wheels can spin without much effort, which is important for driving safely."}},{"startTime":609.4,"endTime":614.2,"type":"term","title":"CV joints","url":"/glossary/cv-joints","quote":"...paying for a transmission, CV joints, wheel bearings. Oh, here's what you do...","canonicalId":"term:cv-joints","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"CV joints, or constant velocity joints, are crucial components in front-wheel drive vehicles, allowing power to be transmitted from the engine to the wheels while accommodating the up-and-down motion of the suspension. They are essential for smooth and efficient power delivery, especially during turns.","simplifiedExplanation":"CV joints help your car's wheels move smoothly while turning and going over bumps. They connect the wheels to the engine and allow for movement without losing power."}},{"startTime":920.64,"endTime":927.6,"type":"car","title":"Eagle Summit Wagon","url":"/cars/eagle/summit","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Covered_wagons_at_visitor_center._View_NW._-_Scotts_Bluff_Summit_Road%2C_Gering%2C_Scotts_Bluff_County%2C_NE_HAER_NE-11-6.tif","quote":"Yeah, I have an Eagle Summit Wagon 1994. Once in a while when I'm driving, usually when I'm turning, but sometimes when I'm backing up, I hear this noise out of the back end.","canonicalId":"car:eagle:summit","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Eagle Summit Wagon is a compact car produced by the now-defunct Eagle brand, which was a subsidiary of Chrysler. It was known for its practicality and versatility as a wagon, appealing to families and those needing extra cargo space.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Eagle Summit Wagon is a type of car made by the Eagle brand, which is no longer in business. It's a compact wagon that offers more space for passengers and cargo compared to a regular sedan.","imageAttribution":"Related names: Gunite Corporation; Nichols, E W; Gross and Stevens; Northwestern Engineering Company; Orshek and Christensen; Mather, Stephen T; Albright, Horace; Maupin, Will Major; Mathers, Albert N; Roosevelt, Franklin D; Baker, Howard; Bureau of Public Roads; Gray, Chris, field team; Magdalenos, Christine, landscape architect; Marston, Christopher H, project manager; Davis, Tim, project manager; Croteau, Todd, project manager; Christianson, Justine, transmitter; Delyea, Todd, delineator; Grinstead, Tim, delineator; Heckaman, Stacey, delineator; Michel, Roger, delineator; Barber, Alicia, historian; Haas, David W, photographer (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":929.4,"endTime":932.7,"type":"part","title":"heavy spring","url":"/glossary/heavy-spring","quote":"...when I'm driving, usually when I'm turning, but sometimes when I'm backing up, I hear this noise out of the back end. It sounds something like a very heavy spring, springing...","canonicalId":"part:heavy-spring","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A heavy spring in a vehicle typically refers to a suspension spring that supports the weight of the vehicle and absorbs shocks from the road. If it's making noise, it could indicate wear or damage, affecting ride quality and handling.","simplifiedExplanation":"A heavy spring is a part of the car's suspension system that helps support the car's weight and makes the ride smoother. If it's making noise, it might be broken or worn out, which can cause problems while driving."}},{"startTime":997.1,"endTime":1004.0,"type":"part","title":"rear suspension","url":"/glossary/rear-suspension","quote":"I think it's coming from the rear suspension. It's coming from one of the springs. I like the spring theory.","canonicalId":"part:rear-suspension","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The rear suspension is a critical component of a vehicle that supports the weight of the car and absorbs shocks from the road. It plays a vital role in handling and ride comfort, particularly when navigating uneven surfaces or turns.","simplifiedExplanation":"The rear suspension is the part of a car that helps keep the back wheels in contact with the road. It makes the ride smoother and helps the car handle better, especially when going over bumps."}},{"startTime":1004.0,"endTime":1009.2,"type":"part","title":"springs","url":"/glossary/springs","quote":"It's coming from one of the springs. I like the spring theory. And if you think about it for a","canonicalId":"part:springs","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Springs are components of the suspension system that absorb shocks and support the weight of the vehicle. They help maintain ride height and improve handling by allowing the wheels to move up and down independently.","simplifiedExplanation":"Springs are metal coils that help make the ride in a car smoother by absorbing bumps in the road. They support the weight of the car and help keep the wheels on the ground."}},{"startTime":1014.8,"endTime":1021.4,"type":"part","title":"rubber cushion","url":"/glossary/rubber-cushion","quote":"...the spring sits on a rubber cushion top and bottom. Right. And it may be that at times,...","canonicalId":"part:rubber-cushion","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A rubber cushion, often referred to as a rubber isolator or mount, is used in suspension systems to dampen vibrations and noise. It provides a buffer between the spring and the vehicle frame, enhancing comfort and reducing wear on components.","simplifiedExplanation":"A rubber cushion is a soft part that helps reduce noise and bumps in your car's suspension. It makes the ride smoother by absorbing shocks."}},{"startTime":1038.7,"endTime":1042.2,"type":"part","title":"broken spring","url":"/glossary/broken-spring","quote":"...you could also have a broken spring too. And broken springs are hard to detect. Sometimes the last half of a coil will break off a spring...","canonicalId":"part:broken-spring","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A broken spring in a vehicle's suspension can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a rough ride. It can be difficult to detect visually, especially if only a small part of the spring is damaged.","simplifiedExplanation":"A broken spring is when the metal part that helps your car's wheels move gets damaged. This can make your car ride bumpy and hard to control."}},{"startTime":1070.0,"endTime":1075.0,"type":"part","title":"silicone lubricant","url":"/glossary/silicone-lubricant","quote":"...ask him to lube the spring cushions with the silicone lubricant and to look and see where the springs sit...","canonicalId":"part:silicone-lubricant","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Silicone lubricant is a type of lubricant that is used to reduce friction and wear on moving parts. It is often used in automotive applications to protect components from corrosion and wear.","simplifiedExplanation":"Silicone lubricant is a slippery substance that helps parts move smoothly without rubbing against each other too much. It's often used to keep car parts from getting stuck or wearing out."}},{"startTime":1091.0,"endTime":1093.0,"type":"term","title":"seatbelt","url":"/glossary/seatbelt","quote":"...make sure you wear the seatbelt just in case. And a football helmet...","canonicalId":"term:seatbelt","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A seatbelt is a safety device in vehicles designed to secure the occupant against harmful movement that may result during a collision or a sudden stop. It is a critical component for passenger safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"A seatbelt is a strap in your car that keeps you safe by holding you in your seat. It helps protect you in case of an accident."}},{"startTime":1193.2,"endTime":1197.2,"type":"car","title":"Alfa Spiders","quote":"...one of the largest, whitest, biggest lobster-like spiders I've ever seen in my life. Fall off my visor in f...","canonicalId":"car:alfa-spiders","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Alfa Romeo Spider is a classic Italian sports car that gained fame for its stylish design and engaging driving experience. Produced from the 1960s until the late 1990s, it is often celebrated for its beautiful lines and open-top driving. The Spider is frequently discussed in automotive circles for its blend of performance and aesthetics.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Alfa Romeo Spider is a stylish convertible sports car that looks really cool and is fun to drive. It's known for its beautiful design and has been around for many years, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts. People talk about it because it's a classic car with a lot of character."}},{"startTime":1237.0,"endTime":1246.9,"type":"car","title":"Lumina van","quote":"...in my Lumina van. Yeah. Went through somebody's stairs to their dock...","canonicalId":"car:lumina-van","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Lumina was a mid-size car produced by Chevrolet from 1990 to 2001, available in both sedan and van variants. It was known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevrolet Lumina is a type of car that was made for families and had a lot of space inside. It was popular in the 1990s and early 2000s."}},{"startTime":1415.68,"endTime":1419.12,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Suburban","url":"/cars/chevrolet/suburban","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/da/2017_Chevrolet_Suburban_LT%2C_Rear_Right%2C_09-11-2021.jpg","quote":"... have a question for you. Oh. I'm looking at used suburban. What do you think of suburban? Suburbans are big...","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:suburban","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It has been a staple in the automotive market since 1935, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in history. Its size and versatility make it a popular choice for families and those needing ample cargo space.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's been around for a very long time and is great for families or anyone who needs extra space. People often talk about it because it's known for being reliable and useful.","imageAttribution":"Elise240SX (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1494.16,"endTime":1501.92,"type":"car","title":"Volkswagen Beetle","url":"/cars/volkswagen/beetle","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ca/2011_Volkswagen_Beetle_R_Concept_%286158707986%29.jpg","quote":"...under a tree. Oh no. And some kind of a monstrous beetle or bee or something was in the hat. A beetle in y...","canonicalId":"car:volkswagen:beetle","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Volkswagen Beetle is a compact car that has become an iconic symbol of automotive history, originally designed in the 1930s. Its unique shape and friendly design have made it popular across generations. The Beetle is often discussed for its cultural significance and its revival in modern times.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Volkswagen Beetle is a small car with a very distinctive round shape. It's famous for being cute and fun to drive, and many people love it because it has a lot of character. It's often mentioned because it's a classic car that many recognize.","imageAttribution":"David Villarreal Fernández (CC BY-SA 2.0)"}},{"startTime":1561.0,"endTime":1562.0,"type":"term","title":"all-wheel drive","url":"/glossary/all-wheel-drive","quote":"And the Subaru is all wheel drive. It's low to the ground. I like it a lot better.","canonicalId":"term:all-wheel-drive","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously. This enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or off-road situations.","simplifiedExplanation":"All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better. This is useful when driving in rain or snow."}},{"startTime":1917.8,"endTime":1924.1,"type":"car","title":"Subaru Legacy","url":"/cars/subaru/legacy","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3d/R448YTF_Subaru_Legacy_GTB_Estate.jpg","quote":"his 93 Subaru Legacy would die while he was climbing a hill. He'd pull over,","canonicalId":"car:subaru:legacy","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size car known for its all-wheel drive and reliability. It has been popular for its practicality and performance in various weather conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Subaru Legacy is a car that is known for being reliable and good in bad weather. It's a popular choice for families and people who need a dependable vehicle.","imageAttribution":"Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0"}},{"startTime":1947.12,"endTime":1952.48,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Camry","url":"/cars/toyota/camry","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6f/2018_GAC-Toyota_Camry_%28front%29.jpg","quote":"... another car in the neighborhood. You have Toyota Camry Syndrome. No kidding. I believe so.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:camry","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States for decades, often praised for its smooth ride and low maintenance costs. The Camry is frequently discussed due to its reputation as a practical and dependable vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Camry is a popular family car that's known for being very reliable and easy to drive. It's a comfortable car that gets good gas mileage, which makes it a favorite among many drivers. People often mention it because it's a safe and sensible choice.","imageAttribution":"User3204 (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1959.5,"endTime":1967.0,"type":"term","title":"carbon buildup","url":"/glossary/carbon-buildup","quote":"And what you have is carbon buildup on the valve train, which causes some of the valves to stick open and not close, thus rendering the engine compression-less.","canonicalId":"term:carbon-buildup","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Carbon buildup refers to the accumulation of carbon deposits on engine components, particularly in the valve train. This can lead to performance issues, such as valves sticking, which affects engine compression and overall efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Carbon buildup happens when carbon from fuel and oil sticks to parts of the engine. This can cause problems like valves not working properly, which can make the engine run poorly."}},{"startTime":1967.0,"endTime":1973.2,"type":"term","title":"engine compression","url":"/glossary/engine-compression","quote":"...not close, thus rendering the engine compression-less.","canonicalId":"term:engine-compression","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Engine compression refers to the pressure created within the engine's cylinders during the compression stroke. Proper compression is essential for efficient engine operation and power generation.","simplifiedExplanation":"Engine compression is the pressure inside the engine's cylinders when the fuel and air are squeezed together. If this pressure is too low, the engine won't run well or may not start at all."}},{"startTime":1996.6,"endTime":2000.2,"type":"term","title":"carbonized valves","url":"/glossary/carbonized-valves","quote":"Well, we explained that Toyota Camry Syndrome results from carbonized valves, and if you catch it early enough, you can sometimes treat it with a few bottles of, ah, you know, fuel injector cleaner.","canonicalId":"term:carbonized-valves","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Carbonized valves refer to a condition where carbon deposits build up on the engine's valves, which can lead to performance issues and increased emissions. This is often a result of incomplete combustion or poor fuel quality.","simplifiedExplanation":"Carbonized valves happen when carbon builds up on the engine's valves, which can cause the engine to run poorly. It's usually due to not burning fuel completely."}},{"startTime":2000.2,"endTime":2003.8,"type":"term","title":"fuel injector cleaner","url":"/glossary/fuel-injector-cleaner","quote":"you can sometimes treat it with a few bottles of, ah, you know, fuel injector cleaner.","canonicalId":"term:fuel-injector-cleaner","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel injector cleaner is a chemical additive designed to clean the fuel injectors and combustion chamber of an engine. It helps remove carbon deposits and improve fuel flow, which can enhance engine performance and efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel injector cleaner is a special liquid you can add to your gas tank to help clean the parts that spray fuel into the engine. It helps the engine run better by removing dirt and buildup."}},{"startTime":2007.8,"endTime":2013.0,"type":"term","title":"MotorVac","url":"/glossary/motorvac","quote":"Then you've got to use a device called MotorVac that forces a powerful cleaning solvent through the engine.","canonicalId":"term:motorvac","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"MotorVac is a brand of engine cleaning equipment that uses a powerful solvent to clean the fuel system and engine internals. It is typically used by automotive professionals to remove carbon buildup and improve engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"MotorVac is a machine that helps clean the inside of an engine using a strong cleaning solution. It's often used by mechanics to fix problems caused by dirt and buildup."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"NPR","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/2598-the-not-so-itsy-bitsy-spider/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}