#338 The Noise vs The Truth: 2025 Automotive Industry Breakdown
About this episode
A lively discussion on the automotive industry's future as we approach 2025, focusing on the impact of AI and electric vehicles. The hosts debate the evolving landscape of car ownership, the challenges facing mechanics, and the shift towards hybrid vehicles. They also touch on the struggles of the Ford Escape's discontinuation and the need for skilled tradespeople in the industry. With humor and personal anecdotes, the episode emphasizes the importance of maintaining relationships with local mechanics and the changing dynamics of car repairs in an AI-driven world.
EVs
"Tesla specifically but EVs in general were pushed tenfold more than they have in the past two three years since Tesla really became a powerhouse."
EVs are cars that run on electric power instead of gasoline. They’re cleaner and often cheaper to run.
EVs stands for electric vehicles, cars powered primarily by electricity stored in batteries.
government subsidies
"Of course it's called rebates when the government subsidizes anything."
When the government gives money or tax breaks to help people buy electric cars, that’s a subsidy.
Government subsidies are financial support from a state to encourage the production or purchase of certain goods, like EVs.
China leading charge
"China did it. China led their led the charge."
China is pushing a lot of electric cars onto the road, helping the technology grow fast.
China has become a major driver of electric vehicle adoption, offering incentives and producing large volumes.
BYD
"You look at the company like BYD some of you've seen it as your doom scrolling on your phone."
BYD makes electric cars and batteries. They’re a big player in China’s EV market.
BYD Co., Ltd. is a Chinese manufacturer of automobiles and batteries, one of the largest EV producers worldwide.
Ford F-150
"And some of you have said no way I'm driving an F 150. I got quoted $2,000 for whatever I need on my F 150."
The Ford F‑150 is a popular pickup truck in the U.S. It’s big, strong, and can carry heavy loads.
The Ford F-150 is a full‑size pickup truck produced by the American automaker Ford. It’s known for its durability, towing capacity, and wide range of configurations.
CV axles
"I just got my CV axles fixed on my car. I was looking at $1,800 bill."
CV axles are the parts that let your car’s wheels turn and move up or down while still getting power from the engine. They’re a key piece in many cars, especially those that drive all four wheels.
CV axles, or constant‑velocity axles, are the components that transmit power from the transmission to the wheels while allowing for steering and suspension movement. They are common in front‑wheel‑drive cars and many all‑wheel‑drive vehicles.
CV axle box
"So Christmas, Christmas tree may have a, you got that CV axle box, put that bow it up, put it underneath the tree."
The CV axle box holds a special joint that lets the car’s wheels turn and move up and down while still getting power from the engine. Think of it like a flexible tube that keeps the car moving smoothly.
A CV axle box, also known as a driveshaft housing or axle housing, contains the constant‑velocity (CV) joint that allows power to be transmitted from the transmission to the wheels while accommodating suspension movement.
sunroof
"Your sunroof can shatter just like on its own on a Hyundai."
A sunroof is a window in the car’s roof that can open or slide to let fresh air and sunshine inside.
A sunroof is a removable or sliding panel in the roof of a vehicle that allows light and air to enter, often used for ventilation or an open-air driving experience.
Toyota Celicas
"You know, if you're a young mama and you're going to have more children. That little soy to Celica's work out. And if you were looking to buy, you know, something like it, you're going to be looking."
The Celica was a small, sporty car that Toyota made for many years. It’s popular with people who like classic cars and good handling.
The Toyota Celica was a lightweight sports coupe that ran from 1970 to 2006, known for its sharp handling and affordable performance. Though discontinued, it remains a sought‑after classic among car collectors.
Toyota Rav4
"...ee in the service space. I'm a big fan of Toyota RAV4 hybrid hybrid. You're going to hear a lot about ..."
The RAV4 is a small SUV that runs on both gasoline and electric power, making it good for people who want to save fuel. It has a roomy interior and is known for being dependable.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV that has become a staple in the hybrid market, offering efficient powertrains and versatile cargo space. Its popularity stems from Toyota's reputation for reliability and the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles.
electric vehicle
"And, you know, some of you are not ready for an electric vehicle full on lifestyle."
An EV runs on electricity instead of gasoline, so you plug it in to charge.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car powered by one or more electric motors using energy stored in rechargeable batteries.
plug-in
"You'll get a plug in and you'll deal with that lifestyle."
Plug‑in means you can plug the car into a charger to get more electric power.
A plug‑in refers to a plug‑in hybrid or plug‑in electric vehicle, which can be charged from an external power source.
Denzo
"They work with manufacturers such as AC Delco, MotorCraft, Denzo and Bosch"
Denzo makes parts that can help a car handle better or look cooler.
Denzo is a manufacturer of automotive parts, often focusing on performance and durability components such as brakes and suspension upgrades.
Bosch
"They work with manufacturers such as AC Delco, MotorCraft, Denzo and Bosch"
Bosch makes many parts that help cars run safely and efficiently, like brakes and sensors.
Bosch is a global engineering company that supplies a wide range of automotive components, including electronics, brakes, and fuel systems.
MotorCraft
"They work with manufacturers such as AC Delco, MotorCraft, Denzo and Bosch"
MotorCraft makes aftermarket parts that can improve a car’s performance or look.
MotorCraft is an automotive parts company known for producing high-performance components like brakes, suspension parts, and engine accessories.
AC Delco
"They work with manufacturers such as AC Delco, MotorCraft, Denzo and Bosch"
AC Delco makes replacement parts like batteries and brakes that help keep cars running smoothly.
AC Delco is a major automotive parts supplier that produces components such as batteries, brakes, and engine parts for many vehicle manufacturers.
Parts Authority.com
"More information is available at Parts Authority.com"
Parts Authority.com is a website where you can buy car parts and accessories.
Parts Authority.com is an online retailer that sells automotive parts and accessories for a variety of vehicles.
rebate
"He's going to lose the rebate that happened end of September."
A rebate is money you get back after buying a car, which makes the car cheaper to buy.
A rebate is a partial refund or incentive offered by manufacturers or governments to reduce the purchase price of a vehicle.
e-sales
"E-sales were still very high Aiden. People were buying online."
E‑sales means buying a car over the internet instead of going to a physical showroom.
E-sales refers to the sale of vehicles through online platforms, where customers can browse, configure, and purchase cars without visiting a dealership.
Ford F150 Lightning
"They wrote down, they took a loss, all the billions of dollars that they put in and now stop making the F-150 Lightning, which you got to really feel for a company. You really, government mandates come out."
The Lightning is a fully electric truck that can haul heavy loads like a regular pickup but uses batteries instead of gasoline. It’s new, so some parts may be hard to get at first.
The Ford F‑150 Lightning is the electric version of America’s best-selling pickup, designed to deliver truck utility with zero emissions. It reflects Ford’s push into electrification but has faced production delays and supply chain challenges.
government mandates
"You really, government mandates come out."
These are rules set by the government that cars must follow, like limits on pollution or safety requirements.
Government mandates are regulations or laws imposed by authorities that require certain standards, such as emissions limits or safety features, for vehicles.
emissions device
"you need to spend $800 on an emissions device. I'm not saying we need to be rogue and pollute, but some of it's extreme for you paying to sustain that car and that check engine light off."
An emissions device is a part that cleans the car’s exhaust gases so it doesn’t pollute the air too much. It’s required by law in many places.
An emissions device is a component installed in a vehicle’s exhaust system to reduce harmful pollutants, such as catalytic converters or particulate filters. It helps the car meet regulatory standards for air quality.
Ford Mustang
"It wasn't a top seller. Emok Mustang violated the whole Mustang legacy came out with t..."
The Mustang is a classic sports car that looks fast and can be very powerful. It’s famous for its long history and cool design.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car known for its performance and cultural impact. Though not a top seller, it remains a symbol of automotive heritage and is often discussed for its styling and engine options.
Tesla Model Y
"... didn't get political, but you don't care for the model Y S three. And you want another?"
The Model Y is a small electric car that can seat five people and has a big touchscreen. It’s fast for its size and doesn’t use gasoline.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that shares many components with the Model 3, offering quick acceleration and advanced tech features. It’s a key player in Tesla’s strategy to expand its electric lineup.
Nissan Leaf
"I can, I'm into it. 2026 Nissan leaf. Get it on your radar."
The Leaf is an electric car that’s easy to drive and doesn’t need gas. It’s a good choice if you want something simple and cheap to run.
The Nissan Leaf is one of the first mass‑produced electric cars, known for its affordability and practicality. The 2026 model continues to improve range and interior tech while maintaining a low price point.
Hyundai Kona
"...said two, but I'll give you three total. Hyundai Kona Electric, the 25. That's another strong value fo..."
The Kona is a small SUV that looks modern and can run on gas or electricity. The electric version is cheap for an EV.
The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV that has gained popularity for its stylish design and, in the electric variant, strong value proposition. The Kona Electric offers competitive range and a low price point compared to other EVs.
2025 Hyundai Kona Electric
"[1658.5s] 2026 Nissan Leaf, 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric."
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a small SUV that runs on electricity, so you can charge it instead of using gasoline.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers an all-electric powertrain, providing good range and practicality for city driving.
Toyota Camrys
"... they're going to still sell the traditional, the Camrys and, you know, all the ice vehicles that sell. S..."
The Camry is a regular car that’s comfortable to drive and doesn’t break down often. It can run on gas or electric power.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that balances comfort, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It remains popular for its dependable performance across both gasoline and hybrid variants.
traditional ICE vehicles
"Now they're going to still sell the traditional, the Camrys and, you know, all the ice vehicles that sell."
These are the regular cars that use a gasoline engine and don’t have electric power as part of their main drive.
Traditional ICE vehicles refer to cars powered solely by internal combustion engines that run on gasoline or diesel.
Ford Escape
"... news on what has sold Ford is getting rid of the escape. Can you believe this?"
The Escape is a small SUV that can carry families and cargo. It’s been around for many years but may be replaced by newer models soon.
The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV that has been a mainstay in Ford’s lineup, offering practicality and a range of powertrains. Recent discussions focus on its phase‑out in favor of newer models like the Bronco Sport.
$30,000 midsize pickup
"They want to come out with that $30,000 midsize pickup."
A midsize pickup is a truck that’s not too big but still can carry loads. $30,000 means it should be a reasonably priced truck for most buyers.
A midsize pickup is a medium-sized truck that balances payload capacity with maneuverability. The $30,000 price point positions it as an affordable option in the midsize truck market.
Ford Maverick
"Smaller, $30,000. 2026 Ford Maverick. That's it."
The Maverick is a small truck that can still pull things like a bigger truck but costs less. It’s good for people who need a truck without spending too much.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup that offers surprisingly robust towing and fuel efficiency, targeting budget‑conscious buyers. Its 2026 update focuses on a smaller price point and improved powertrains.
Honda Prelude
"Sorry. I'm saying that, that, that, that's the prelude that you're going to be fired. They want you to ..."
The Prelude was a small, fast car made by Honda that people still like because it’s fun to drive. It’s not sold anymore, so you’d look for used ones.
The Honda Prelude was a sporty coupe produced from 1978 to 2001, celebrated for its handling and turbocharged engines. It’s a nostalgic model that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts of classic Japanese sports cars.
leaking oil
"[2437.8s] 2020 RAV4 leaking oil."
When a car leaks oil, it means some of the engine's lubricating fluid is dripping out. This can cause the engine to run low on oil, which might damage it if not fixed.
An oil leak occurs when engine oil escapes from seals, gaskets, or other components, potentially leading to low oil levels and engine damage if not addressed.
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