Edmunds
Edmunds is an automotive information and pricing site that provides reviews, specs, and cost estimates. When a caller says they’re speaking with someone from Edmunds, it signals the show may be referencing market/ownership guidance rather than only mechanical diagnosis.
four-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive means the car can send power to all four wheels for better grip. If it starts acting jerky or lurching, it could be because something in the power delivery to the wheels isn’t working smoothly.
automatic
“Automatic” means the car changes gears by itself. If it’s jerking or suddenly lurching, the transmission may not be shifting smoothly.
bucking
Bucking is when the car feels like it’s jerking or kicking instead of pulling smoothly. That can happen for a few reasons, including problems with how the engine is running or how the transmission is applying power.
parking brake
They’re saying it feels like the parking brake is partially on, which would make the car feel like it’s fighting you. That could be from a brake that isn’t fully releasing, or from another system that feels similar.
clogged fuel filter
Your fuel filter is like a screen that keeps dirt out of the fuel system. If it gets clogged, the engine doesn’t get enough fuel, so it can lose power and eventually shut off.
fuel starvation under load
Sometimes a car seems okay around town, but when you ask for more power (like going up a hill), it starts to run out of fuel. That’s why it can slow down, then stall.
gas filter
A gas filter is like a screen that keeps dirt out of the fuel. If it gets clogged, the car may not get enough clean fuel and can run rough, especially when you drive for a while.
fast oil places
These are the quick-change oil shops. They’re great for oil changes, but they might not be the best place for other jobs like fuel-filter work.
oil filter
The oil filter cleans the engine’s oil as it circulates. It’s different from a fuel filter, which cleans the gas going to the engine.
spark plugs
Spark plugs create the spark that lights the fuel in the engine. If they’re worn out or dirty, the engine can run rough or misfire. That can make the car feel like it has a fuel problem even when it’s really ignition-related.
air filter
The air filter keeps dust out of the air going into the engine. If it gets clogged, the engine can’t breathe well, and performance can suffer. Replacing it is a simple maintenance step that can improve how the car runs.
general tune up
A tune-up is a routine maintenance check to make sure the engine is running the way it should. It often includes checking things like spark plugs and filters. If your car is acting up, a tune-up can help find and fix the cause.
93 Nissan pickup
They’re talking about a Nissan pickup from around 1993. They’re using it as the example while describing a squeaking sound they’re trying to figure out.
squeaking noise
The squeaking is described as happening only when the truck is moving, specifically during acceleration and also during deceleration or when braking. That pattern is useful because it narrows the likely sources—often related to belts, brakes, suspension bushings, or drivetrain components that load/unload with throttle and braking.
idle
“Idle” refers to the engine running while the vehicle is stationary. Not having the noise at idle is a key diagnostic clue because it suggests the sound isn’t coming from things that run continuously at rest (like the engine itself) and instead comes from components that only operate under motion or load.
decelerating or putting on the brake
They notice the squeak when slowing down and when braking. That often means it’s related to the brakes or parts that move/shift when the car’s weight transfers during stopping.
belt
They suspect the belt because belts can squeak when they’re worn or not gripping properly. If the noise changes with engine speed or with accessory loads, it’s a strong clue the belt or one of its pulleys is the problem.
defroster
The defroster is the part that clears the windshield. It uses power, so turning it on can make belt-related noises change—helping you narrow down the cause.
accessories
In this context, “accessories” are the car’s electrical/comfort systems—like headlights and the defroster. Turning them on increases demand on the car’s charging system, which can affect noises you hear from belts or pulleys.
headlights
They mention headlights because turning them on makes the car use more electricity. That extra electrical load can change how the belt-driven parts sound.
rev the engine
They’re telling you to raise the engine speed a bit and listen. If the squeak gets louder when the RPM goes up, it often points to something like a belt or pulley.
loose exhaust system component
If a part of the exhaust isn’t tight, it can wiggle when you accelerate. That wiggle can make a rattle or clunk sound. When you change throttle/load, the sound may go away.
manifold
The manifold is the part on the engine that gathers exhaust gases from the cylinders. Where it connects to the exhaust pipe uses gaskets and bolts. If that connection is loose, it can make noise when the engine is working hard.
front pipe
The front pipe is the exhaust pipe right after the engine. If the bolts or gasket there get loose, it can rattle or make noise when you press the gas. Tightening and checking the seal can fix it.
converter
In this context, “converter” refers to the catalytic converter, which is typically bolted into the exhaust stream after the manifold/front pipe. If the converter’s mounting bolts or flange joints loosen, it can shift under engine load and create rattling noises. It can also contribute to exhaust leaks if gaskets fail.
engine under load
When you accelerate, the engine has to work harder and twist more. That extra force can make a loose exhaust part shake and rattle. If you ease off, the shaking may stop.
brake-and-rev noise duplication test (in Drive)
They’re describing a way to recreate the sound safely: keep your foot on the brake (and use the handbrake) so the car can’t roll, then rev it to see if the noise happens again. If the noise shows up the same way, it helps point to the cause. Don’t do it near people or anything you could hit.
torque
Torque is the engine’s pulling power. More torque usually means the car feels stronger when you press the gas, especially when you’re not at high RPM.
crankshaft
The crankshaft is the main rotating shaft inside the engine. It turns the engine’s internal motion into the spinning motion that ultimately drives the wheels.
engine vibration / dynamic forces causing exhaust contact noise
Engines shake as they run, and that shaking can make the exhaust pipes or parts of the exhaust hit or rub. When that happens, you hear a rattle or clunk that can sound like it’s coming from near you.
stethoscope
A stethoscope helps a mechanic “listen” for the exact spot where a noise is happening. They put it near parts under the car while the engine is running to find the source.
revving up the engine
Revving the engine increases RPM and changes vibration and load, which can make intermittent noises appear or disappear. It’s a common technique for diagnosing rattles, exhaust contact, and other vibration-related issues.
steam locomotives
A steam locomotive makes power by heating water into steam. That steam pushes pistons, which turn the wheels that actually pull the train.
locomotive of the 282 type
“282 type” is basically a particular model/class of steam locomotive. Different classes can pull different amounts of train, depending on their design and power.
locomotive wheel arrangement (leading / driving / trailing wheels)
Locomotives have different sets of wheels. The front and back wheels help guide and stabilize the locomotive, while the middle “driving” wheels are the ones that get power to pull the train.
force of gravity on a downhill slope
Going downhill can help a heavy vehicle keep moving faster, so it has an easier time climbing the next hill. It’s like getting a “push” from gravity before the climb.
1991 Mercedes 350SDL
This is a specific Mercedes-Benz sedan from 1991. In this case, it’s a diesel car that uses a turbocharger to make it feel stronger. The host is describing a problem on this exact model.
turbocharger
A turbocharger is a device that uses the engine’s exhaust to spin a compressor. It pushes extra air into the engine so the car makes more power. If something’s wrong with the turbo system, it can sometimes cause unusual sounds.
Turbo diesel
A turbo diesel is a diesel engine that has a turbocharger. The turbo helps the engine breathe better, which usually means more pulling power. It’s a common setup on many older Mercedes diesels.
noise emanating from the right rear part of the car
Describing a noise by location (right rear) and timing (only when the engine is running, repeating every few seconds) helps narrow down the likely subsystem. Rear-area noises can come from components like wheel bearings, brakes, suspension bushings, or exhaust-related parts depending on the exact sound and when it occurs. The “every five seconds” pattern is a key clue that the noise may be tied to a repeating mechanical or control cycle.
rhythmic clicking/clunking that changes frequency
If a noise happens every few seconds in a predictable pattern, it usually means something is turning on and off by a schedule. When it gets faster and louder, that can be a clue that the part is getting worse or the car is trying harder to make it work. Patterns like this are useful for diagnosing what system is involved.
solenoid
A solenoid is like an electrically powered “push-button” inside the car. When the car sends electricity to it, it moves and can make a clicking sound. If you hear the noise every few seconds, it may be something that’s turning on and off by itself.
fuel pump
The fuel pump is what moves gas from the tank to the engine. It’s usually located near the rear of the car because that’s where the fuel tank is. If it starts making louder or more frequent noises, it can be a sign the pump (or something it controls) is having trouble.
injector pump
The injector pump is the diesel engine’s fuel “pressure and timing” control. It makes sure the right amount of fuel gets sent to the injectors at the right time.
diesel engine
Diesel engines don’t use spark plugs like many gas engines. They squeeze air so much that the fuel ignites on its own, which means the fuel system has different parts.
feed pump
The feed pump’s job is to pull fuel from the tank and send it forward to the rest of the fuel system. Think of it as the “fuel delivery” step before the engine’s main injection parts.
Mercedes dealership
A Mercedes dealership is an official repair shop for Mercedes cars. It can matter because brand-specific shops often know the car’s systems better and use the right parts.
fuel tank
Your fuel tank holds the fuel. Some important fuel parts are located near the tank, so if you hear a weird noise, it might be coming from that area.
emission system
The emission system helps keep the car’s exhaust cleaner. Some of its parts move or switch on and off, and that can create sounds you might mistake for an engine problem.
Mercedes cars
Mercedes cars often have lots of electronic parts that control different systems. If you hear a weird noise, it might be one of those electronic components doing its job (or acting up).
diesels
They’re saying they like diesel cars or trucks. Diesel engines run differently than gas engines, and people often choose them for better fuel economy and long-life—though they may need different care.
bug bomb
A bug bomb is like a can of insect-killing chemical that makes a fog. People use it to kill bugs in a closed space, but the chemicals can be dangerous to breathe, so you have to be careful.
pesticide exposure risk in enclosed spaces
When you spray bug-killing chemicals inside a car, the air can get filled with fumes. That can make you feel sick, and it may take time for the smell and chemicals to clear out.
Agent Orange
Agent Orange is a well-known toxic chemical from history. Here it’s mentioned just to make a point that the pesticide being discussed is extremely harmful.
electronics of the car
Cars have lots of computers and sensors. If you spray harsh chemicals in the cabin, those chemicals can land on wiring and electronic parts and cause trouble.
commercial ice business
They’re using a business that makes and stores ice, with big freezers, to keep bugs away. The cold environment makes it harder for flies to survive. It’s basically a “use the right environment” trick.
Volkswagen Jetta
This is a 1999 Volkswagen Jetta GL. The “standard” means a manual transmission, while an automatic is the other option. They’re debating whether you can change a car from manual to automatic after the fact.
standard
“Standard” here means the car has a manual transmission. Instead of the car shifting for you, you use a clutch and your own gear changes.
dealer-only conversion
They’re saying this kind of conversion is safest when a dealership does it. A dealership is more likely to use the right parts and follow the correct steps, instead of guessing.
factory-installed option vs dealer add-on
They’re basically talking about whether the car was built with the option from the factory or added later. Factory options are usually easier and more reliable because the car’s systems are set up to work together from the start.
conversion risk (things that will go wrong)
They’re warning that changing a major drivetrain option later can be complicated. It’s not only about the parts—you might also need extra work so the car’s systems all communicate correctly.
computer
The “computer” is the car’s electronics that control things like shifting and engine behavior. If you swap transmission types, the car may need software changes so it knows how to run the new setup.
swap it (buying a different transmission-equipped car)
Rather than modifying the car to change how it shifts, the idea is to buy a different car that already has the automatic. That’s often simpler and can avoid expensive, complicated work.
buying from a dealer and negotiating a different drivetrain
They’re talking about going back to the dealer to switch to an automatic. Usually that kind of change involves trade-in or price differences, and it can cost more than you expect.
Oldsmobile Cutlass
They’re talking about an Oldsmobile Cutlass from around 1989. The important part is that it makes a loud clunk when they brake, so the problem is probably in the wheels, brakes, or suspension—not the engine.
loud clunk
A loud clunk when you brake usually means something is loose or worn near the wheels. It could be in the suspension parts or the brake hardware, and it’s worth checking because it can get worse quickly.
brake on
They’re saying the problem happens specifically when they brake. That clue helps a mechanic focus on parts that are stressed during stopping, instead of guessing randomly.
clunk comes through on the door side of the passenger
They’re saying the sound seems to come from the passenger side. That’s helpful because it tells you which wheel area to inspect first for loose or worn parts.
feel something moving under there
They’re not only hearing the clunk—they can also feel movement. That usually means a part is actually shifting when the car slows down, which is a strong reason to get it inspected carefully.
fender
A fender is the metal (or plastic) panel above the wheel. If it was taken off and put back on, something could be loose or not lined up, which can cause rattles or clunks.
loose fasteners after body work
When a shop replaces a body panel like a fender, it has to be bolted and clipped back on correctly. If any mounting hardware is loose, the panel can move and make a clunking sound.
break shop
They’re likely talking about a place that sells used car parts. It can save money, but you have to make sure the part matches your car and isn’t damaged.
pre-diagnosis / "diagnosed the problem already in advance"
They’re talking about figuring out what’s wrong before the shop really checks it. If you guess wrong or miss something, the repair can get more complicated and more expensive.
control arm bushing
The control arm bushing is like a soft cushion in your suspension. It helps the suspension move smoothly without rattling. If it gets worn out, you may hear noises or feel the car doesn’t handle as well.
front suspension
The front suspension is what helps the front wheels stay planted and ride smoothly. If you hear a noise that seems to come from the front of the car, it might be something like a worn part that connects the wheel to the car.
covers all the disciplines
They’re saying you’ll get better results if you take the car to someone who can look at the whole problem, not just one category. Noises can be caused by more than one system, so a broad-thinking shop is less likely to miss the real cause.
preconceived notions
They’re warning against guessing what the problem is before checking. If a mechanic has an idea in their head, they might miss the real cause.
step on the brake
A noise that appears when you “step on the brake” is a key diagnostic clue because braking changes load transfer and can alter how suspension and brake components behave. Even if the driver suspects it’s not the brakes, the timing with braking often points to brake hardware, suspension bushings, or mounting points that move under deceleration.
fix it no matter what it costs
They’re saying it helps to tell the mechanic you want the real problem solved, not a temporary workaround. That can push the shop to do the extra checking needed to find the true cause.
loose steering wheel
If the steering wheel feels loose, it means there’s extra movement before the wheels actually respond. That can make the car harder to control, so it’s worth fixing quickly.
rack and pinion mount
Rack-and-pinion is a common steering setup. The mount is what holds the steering mechanism in place—if it’s loose, the steering can feel wobbly and unsafe.
tie rod end
Tie rod ends are small steering link parts that help move the wheels when you turn the wheel. If one is worn out, the steering can feel loose and the car may not track straight.
steering play can be dangerous
If your steering has too much looseness, the car may not turn the way you expect. That’s risky, so it’s smart to limit driving and get it checked right away.