Auto Correct | All Email, All Call - December 2025
About this episode
A heartfelt farewell to the Auto Correct show as hosts Coach Charlie Melton and Jermaine Flood reflect on their journey over the past four and a half years. They discuss the transition to a new podcast, 'The Car Coach', launching in January 2026, which will continue to provide automotive advice and insights. The episode features listener calls and emails addressing various car issues, including ABS lights, check engine lights, and vehicle recalls. The hosts emphasize the importance of education in car maintenance and the joy of helping listeners solve their automotive problems.
Our email address for questions is [email protected]. The phone number is 1-877-MPB-RING (1-877-672-7464).
Recalls: Check for Recalls: Vehicle, Car Seat, Tire, Equipment | NHTSA
News: How Old Is Too Old To Drive? When Experts Say You Should Hang Up The Keys
Auto Casey: 2025 Mercedes Benz E 450 All-Terrain Wagon | Short Take
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noises of cars
"...you can't do this without somebody who knows who knows noises of cars. And that's the person, you know, knowing coach."
Cars make different sounds when they're working properly or if something is wrong. Learning to recognize these sounds can help you figure out if your car needs repairs.
Understanding the noises that cars make can help diagnose issues. Different sounds can indicate various problems, such as engine trouble, brake issues, or suspension problems.
brake light switch
"I remember the guy was replacing a brake light switch, a brake light switch underneath his dash while we were talking."
The brake light switch is a small part that turns on the brake lights when you press the brake pedal. This helps other drivers know when you're stopping.
A brake light switch is a crucial component in a vehicle's braking system that activates the brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed. It ensures that other drivers are aware when a vehicle is slowing down or stopping.
Mercedes-Benz ML350 4MATIC
"It's an ML350 formatic. It needs your transmission."
The Mercedes-Benz ML350 4MATIC is a luxury SUV that offers a smooth ride and good handling. The '4MATIC' means it has all-wheel drive, which helps it grip the road better, especially in bad weather.
The Mercedes-Benz ML350 4MATIC is a luxury midsize SUV known for its comfort and performance. The '4MATIC' designation indicates that it features all-wheel drive, providing better traction in various driving conditions.
transmission
"It needs your transmission. And I wonder if you knew anyone with a like 100 to 150 mile radius of here that could rebuild one or put a use one in."
The transmission is what helps the car move by sending power from the engine to the wheels. If it has problems, the car might not drive properly.
The transmission is a crucial component of a vehicle that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the car to move. It can be automatic or manual, and issues with it can lead to significant performance problems.
Mercedes
"...I love Mercedes, they're good vehicles, but they did have some problems. You know, like all manufacturers, they do have problems."
Mercedes is a well-known car brand that makes luxury cars. They are famous for their quality and advanced features.
Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for luxury vehicles, buses, and trucks. The brand is recognized for its high-quality engineering and innovative technology.
Nissan Armada
"This is light work, including its Armada full size SUV, Murano midsize SUV and Infinity QX80 full size SUV."
The Nissan Armada is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and has a lot of room for luggage. It's good for families or trips where you need extra space.
The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and powerful performance. It is designed for families and those needing ample cargo space.
Nissan Murano
"This is light work, including its Armada full size SUV, Murano midsize SUV and Infinity QX80 full size SUV."
The Nissan Murano is a medium-sized SUV that is comfortable to drive and looks nice. It's a good choice for people who want a mix of space and fuel efficiency.
The Nissan Murano is a midsize SUV that offers a comfortable ride and a stylish design, making it popular among those looking for a balance of space and efficiency.
Infiniti QX80
"...a full size SUV, Murano midsize SUV and Infinity QX80 full size SUV. It includes the two twenty twenty..."
rearview camera
"A software error in the in vehicle infotainment system at vehicle startup may cause the rearview camera image not to display when the vehicle is in reverse decreasing driver visibility because you can't see."
A rearview camera is a camera that shows you what's behind your car when you are backing up. It helps you see if there is anything in your way.
A rearview camera is a safety feature in vehicles that provides a view of the area behind the car when reversing, helping to prevent accidents and improve visibility.
Toyota Corolla
"...Toyota is recalling more than 55,000 examples of its Camry, sedan and Corolla cross hybrid SUV over an issue with the hybrid powertrain..."
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a smaller SUV that is easy to drive and has a lot of space inside. It's part of the Corolla family, which is known for being reliable.
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a compact SUV that combines the practicality of an SUV with the reliability of the Corolla name. It offers a spacious interior and modern technology features.
Toyota Camry
"...ta is recalling more than 55,000 examples of its Camry, sedan and Corolla cross hybrid SUV over an issu..."
hybrid powertrain
"...over an issue with the hybrid powertrain that could lead to a fire. This is not an easy one."
A hybrid powertrain is a system in some cars that uses both a gas engine and an electric motor. This helps the car use less fuel and be better for the environment.
A hybrid powertrain combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It allows vehicles to operate on electric power alone at low speeds.
inverter
"a bolt inside the inverter of the hybrid powertrain may become loose"
An inverter is a part that changes the type of electricity from the battery so that it can be used by the car's electric motor. It's important for making hybrid and electric cars work.
An inverter is an electronic device that converts direct current (DC) from the battery into alternating current (AC) for the electric motor in hybrid and electric vehicles. It plays a crucial role in the operation of the hybrid powertrain.
motive power
"and cause a loss of motive power or a fire, both of which increase the risk of crash or injury."
Motive power is the energy that makes a car go. In hybrid cars, this energy can come from either the gas engine or the electric motor.
Motive power refers to the power that drives a vehicle, allowing it to move. In hybrid vehicles, this power can come from either the internal combustion engine or the electric motor.
Ford Lightning
"So they just did away with their cutting production on the lightning."
The Ford Lightning is a new electric truck from Ford that is designed to be powerful and useful for work and everyday driving. It's part of Ford's effort to make more electric vehicles.
The Ford Lightning is an all-electric version of the Ford F-150, known for its performance and utility. It represents Ford's push into the electric vehicle market, particularly in the pickup segment.
brake fluid
"So I know, you know, when you buy your car, it's got brake fluid in it. But how did it come off of the the manufacturer ramp?"
Brake fluid is a special liquid that helps your car's brakes work. If it gets dirty or contaminated, your brakes might not work properly, which can be dangerous.
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in brake systems to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brake components. It is crucial for the proper functioning of the braking system, and contamination can lead to brake failure.
master cylinder
"and water would get up in there and that would go back to the master cylinder. OK, so it would contaminate the whole system."
The master cylinder is a part of the brake system that helps push brake fluid to the brakes when you press the pedal. It's important for making sure the brakes work properly.
The master cylinder is a key component in a vehicle's brake system that generates hydraulic pressure to activate the brakes. It is responsible for sending brake fluid to the wheel cylinders or brake calipers.
DOT 3
"OK, they make a dot three, a dot four and a dot five. Those are the three brake fluids."
DOT 3 is one kind of brake fluid that many cars use. It helps the brakes work but doesn't handle heat as well as some other types.
DOT 3 is a type of brake fluid that is glycol-based and has a lower boiling point compared to DOT 4 and DOT 5. It is commonly used in many vehicles but may not be suitable for high-performance applications.
DOT 4
"OK, they make a dot three, a dot four and a dot five. Those are the three brake fluids."
DOT 4 is another type of brake fluid that can handle more heat than DOT 3, making it better for cars that need stronger brakes.
DOT 4 is a type of brake fluid that has a higher boiling point than DOT 3, making it suitable for vehicles that require better performance under high temperatures, such as sports cars.
DOT 5
"OK, they make a dot three, a dot four and a dot five. Those are the three brake fluids."
DOT 5 is a special type of brake fluid that doesn't mix with the others. It's used in some older cars and can handle heat well.
DOT 5 is a silicone-based brake fluid that is not compatible with other types of brake fluids. It has a higher boiling point and is often used in classic cars or vehicles that require special handling.
Honda Accord
"I have a 2011 Honda Accord that has a weird cranking noise that my car shop hasn't been able to diagnose Java."
The Honda Accord is a well-known car that many people drive. The 2011 version is known for being reliable and comfortable for everyday use.
The Honda Accord is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability and comfort. The 2011 model is part of the eighth generation, which features a spacious interior and a variety of engine options.
starter bendix
"...the starter bendix throws out the gear, the bendix go out. And if the teeth are war, it can't mesh."
The starter bendix is a part that helps start the engine. If it's broken, it can make a grinding sound and not work when you try to start the car.
The starter bendix is a component of the starter motor that engages the engine's flywheel when starting the vehicle. If the bendix is faulty, it can cause grinding noises and prevent the engine from starting properly.
crankshaft sensor
"...he said it was bad when he plugged it on the meter or whatever on the scan tool."
The crankshaft sensor helps the engine know how fast it's spinning. If it stops working, the engine might not run properly or could even stall.
The crankshaft sensor monitors the position and speed of the crankshaft, which is crucial for engine timing and performance. A faulty sensor can lead to engine misfires or stalling.
scan tool
"Maybe he don't have the right scan tool because a lot of times people don't have the right scan tool to get into those computers because they have history codes"
A scan tool is like a computer for your car that helps mechanics figure out what's wrong by reading error messages from the car's computer.
A scan tool is a diagnostic device used to communicate with a vehicle's onboard computer systems. It retrieves trouble codes and data that can help identify issues within the vehicle's systems.
aftermarket sensor
"Because Nissan was really bad about that. If you got an aftermarket sensor, it would not work. I'd have it on. So he did put an aftermarket on."
An aftermarket sensor is a part made by a different company than the one that made your car. They can be less expensive, but sometimes they don't work as well as the original parts.
Aftermarket sensors are parts made by companies other than the original manufacturer. While they can be cheaper, they may not always fit or function as well as OEM parts, leading to potential issues.
case number
"They'll get a case number with the codes. And you take that case number in the codes to the dealer and they'll work from there."
A case number is like a reference number for your car's repair issue. It helps the dealer keep track of what needs to be fixed.
A case number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific service issue or repair request, allowing service departments to track and manage customer concerns efficiently.
weak battery
"So my trouble was I had a weak battery. That's right."
A weak battery means the car's battery doesn't have enough power to start the engine or run the electronics properly. It might need to be charged or replaced.
A weak battery in a vehicle typically refers to a battery that does not have sufficient charge or capacity to start the engine or power electrical systems effectively. This can lead to starting issues or electrical malfunctions.
horn
"it was like what I call a real Cadillac horn, you know, real loud when you blow it and it gets down the night on sometimes it'll blow loud and you might wait a while."
A car horn is what you press to make a loud noise to get someone's attention. It's important for safety on the road.
A horn in a vehicle is a sound-producing device used to alert other drivers or pedestrians. It typically emits a loud sound when activated, which can vary in pitch and volume depending on the design and condition of the horn.
Gazoo Racing
"It's the 2025 GR Corolla. And what this one means is it's been finessed by Toyota's Gazoo Racing team has wider wheels, 18 inch wheels,"
Gazoo Racing is a part of Toyota that makes their cars faster and more exciting to drive. They work on special versions of regular cars to improve their performance.
Gazoo Racing is Toyota's performance division, responsible for developing high-performance versions of their vehicles. They focus on enhancing driving dynamics and motorsport involvement.
Toyota GR Corolla
"..., the only have this week is love. It's the 2025 GR Corolla. And what this one means is it's been finessed b..."
The Toyota GR Corolla is a faster, sportier version of the regular Corolla, made for people who love to drive. It's designed to be fun and exciting on the road.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a high-performance version of the Corolla, designed for enthusiasts who seek a sporty driving experience. It features advanced engineering and tuning, making it a significant addition to Toyota's performance lineup.
18 inch wheels
"It's been finessed by Toyota's Gazoo Racing team has wider wheels, 18 inch wheels,"
18 inch wheels are the size of the wheels on the car. Bigger wheels can make a car look nicer and help it handle better, but they can also make the ride a bit rougher.
18 inch wheels refer to the diameter of the wheel, which can affect a vehicle's handling, ride quality, and aesthetics. Larger wheels often improve performance but may compromise comfort.
turbocharged three cylinder engine
"...upgraded suspension, body bracing, and a 1.6 liter turbocharged three cylinder engine, putting up 300 horsepower..."
A turbocharged engine is one that has a device called a turbocharger, which helps it produce more power without needing a bigger engine. A three-cylinder engine means it has three cylinders, which is fewer than most cars, making it lighter and more efficient.
A turbocharged three-cylinder engine uses a turbocharger to increase the engine's efficiency and power output. This type of engine is often lighter and more compact, making it suitable for smaller cars while still delivering strong performance.
Toyota Tacoma
"...got another email. This email is for 2013 Toyota Tacoma two wheel drive ABS light. Recently had my front..."
The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller truck that people use for work or fun activities like camping. It's known for lasting a long time and being able to handle rough roads.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It has a strong reputation among truck enthusiasts and is often discussed for its reliability and versatility in various driving conditions.
Jeep Wrangler
"...e from Bill Martin. Bill says, I have a 2015 Jeep Wrangler Sahara. The check engine light is on, but engine..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough vehicle that people love to take off-road, like on trails or in the mountains. It's popular because it can go almost anywhere and has a cool, classic look.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle that combines rugged design with versatile performance. It's often discussed for its ability to tackle tough terrains and its strong following among adventure enthusiasts.
Honda Civic
"...ed friend sell her deceased husband's 2003 Honda Civic SI five speed hatchback. Her husband was a car g..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that's very popular because it's reliable and saves on gas. The 2003 model is especially liked by people who enjoy driving because it feels sporty.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in the automotive market for decades, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 2003 Honda Civic SI, in particular, is celebrated for its sporty performance and engaging driving experience.
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