{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Battery Basics, Getting Bugs Off of the Vehicle, Fuel Efficiency Failure","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/battery-basics-getting-bugs-off-of-the-vehicle-fuel-efficiency-failure","audioUrl":"https://serve.castfire.com/audio/7756685/7756685_2025-10-11-123325.128.mp3?rssID=3659","description":"Denny makes an unexpected trip to Lloyd's Automotive. What is the typical life of a battery? Preventing rust on your vehicle. Why high beams may not be staying on. Best way to remove bugs from the vehicle. Trailer brakes malfunctioning. Signs of your vehicle having poor fuel efficiency. How accurate are tire sensors? Ask our car care expert Nick Stoffel of Lloyds Automotive. Visit lloydsautomotive.net 651-228-1316."},"annotations":[{"startTime":143.8,"endTime":145.3,"type":"term","title":"solenoid","url":"/glossary/solenoid","quote":"...Is this a starter? Is it a solenoid?","canonicalId":"term:solenoid","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A solenoid is an electromechanical device that converts electrical energy into linear motion. In cars, it often works with the starter to engage the engine when starting.","simplifiedExplanation":"A solenoid is a small part that helps the starter work. It helps connect the battery to the starter when you turn the key to start the car."}},{"startTime":143.8,"endTime":145.3,"type":"term","title":"starter","url":"/glossary/starter","quote":"...is this a starter? Is it a solenoid?","canonicalId":"term:starter","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation by turning it over. It's a crucial component in starting a vehicle, and if it fails, the engine won't start.","simplifiedExplanation":"The starter is a part of the car that helps turn the engine on. If it doesn't work, the car won't start at all."}},{"startTime":149.8,"endTime":152.3,"type":"part","title":"battery","url":"/glossary/battery","quote":"Is it just the battery? So I thought, well, I'm going to do a little test.","canonicalId":"part:battery","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A battery in a vehicle stores electrical energy and provides the power needed to start the engine and run electrical components. Car batteries are typically lead-acid batteries, which are rechargeable and designed to deliver high bursts of energy.","simplifiedExplanation":"A battery in a car is what gives it power to start and run things like the lights and radio. If the battery is dead, the car won't start."}},{"startTime":153.9,"endTime":157.4,"type":"term","title":"jumpstart","url":"/glossary/jump-start","quote":"I thought, well, I'm going to do a little test. I'll take my wife's truck outside and I jumpstart. Boom, popped right off.","canonicalId":"term:jump-start","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Jumpstarting is the process of using a charged battery to start a vehicle with a dead battery. This is typically done by connecting jumper cables from the working battery to the dead battery to provide the necessary power to start the engine.","simplifiedExplanation":"Jumpstarting means using another car's battery to help start your car when the battery is dead. You connect the two batteries with cables to give your car the power it needs to start."}},{"startTime":191.5,"endTime":191.5,"type":"term","title":"oil viscosity","url":"/glossary/oil-viscosity","quote":"...the oil gets a little thicker. That starter's going to need a little extra amperage...","canonicalId":"term:oil-viscosity","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Oil viscosity refers to the thickness of the engine oil, which can change with temperature. In colder weather, oil becomes thicker, making it harder for the engine components to move smoothly, which can affect starting.","simplifiedExplanation":"Oil viscosity is how thick or thin the oil in your engine is. When it's cold, the oil gets thicker, which can make it harder for the engine to start."}},{"startTime":197.1,"endTime":197.1,"type":"term","title":"amperage","url":"/glossary/amperage","quote":"...that starter's going to need a little extra amperage from that battery.","canonicalId":"term:amperage","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Amperage refers to the amount of electric current flowing in a circuit, measured in amperes. In automotive terms, a starter motor requires a certain amount of amperage from the battery to function properly, especially in colder conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Amperage is how much electricity is flowing through a wire. When it's cold, a car's starter needs more electricity from the battery to work."}},{"startTime":358.92,"endTime":362.36,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Camry","url":"/cars/toyota/camry","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bc/%28USA-Massachusetts%29_Private_Toyota_Camry_NJ-Z22UKZ_rear_2024-06-06.jpg","quote":"What is the best way to keep a 13 year old Camry relatively rust free for the next 10 years? I'm p...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:camry","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States for decades, making it a popular choice for families and commuters alike. Discussions around the Camry often focus on its longevity and how to maintain it over the years.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Camry is a popular car that many people buy because it's dependable and easy to drive. It's known for lasting a long time, so people often talk about how to take care of older models to keep them in good shape. If you have a 13-year-old Camry, you might want to know how to prevent rust and keep it running well.","imageAttribution":"S5A-0043 (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":432.08,"endTime":436.0,"type":"car","title":"Honda Accordi","url":"/cars/honda/accord","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/2007_Honda_Accord_Euro_R_with_Mugen_tuning_front.jpg","quote":"...I'm the original owner of a 2014 Honda Accord XL, 80,000 miles on it. During the hottest part of the summer,...","canonicalId":"car:honda:accord","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda Accord is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability and comfort. The XL trim typically includes additional features compared to the base model, enhancing the driving experience.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda Accord is a well-known car that many people like because it's reliable and comfortable. The XL version usually has more features than the basic model.","imageAttribution":"Throwawayacc222 (CC0)"}},{"startTime":532.0,"endTime":536.8,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Avalon","url":"/cars/toyota/avalon","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/41/2019_Toyota_Avalon_Hybrid_Limited.jpg","quote":"I have a 2013 Toyota Avalon and my high beams will not stay on","canonicalId":"car:toyota:avalon","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. The 2013 model features a V6 engine and a variety of technology options, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Avalon is a large car that is designed for comfort and space. The 2013 version has a strong engine and many features that make it easy to drive and enjoy.","imageAttribution":"Xboxcarsforza1 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":538.76,"endTime":543.0,"type":"term","title":"turn indicator stalk","url":"/glossary/turn-indicator-stalk","quote":"when you push the turn indicator stock in, but if you pull it toward you, they do come on. I'm wondering where I start looking to fix that.","canonicalId":"term:turn-indicator-stalk","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The turn indicator stalk is a lever located on the steering column that controls the vehicle's turn signals and sometimes high beams. It allows the driver to signal their intentions to other road users when turning or changing lanes.","simplifiedExplanation":"The turn indicator stalk is the lever you use to signal when you're turning or changing lanes. It's usually found on the steering wheel column."}},{"startTime":556.9,"endTime":559.9,"type":"term","title":"high beam","url":"/glossary/high-beam","quote":"...it's supposed to stay illuminated on the high beam. So something within that stock, as we would refer to it, has gone faulty.","canonicalId":"term:high-beam","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"High beams are the bright headlights used to illuminate the road further ahead, typically used in low-traffic conditions. They provide better visibility at night but can blind oncoming drivers if not turned off.","simplifiedExplanation":"High beams are the bright lights on your car that help you see far ahead at night. You should only use them when there are no other cars around to avoid blinding other drivers."}},{"startTime":752.3,"endTime":755.76,"type":"car","title":"Chevy Suburban","url":"/cars/chevrolet/suburban","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/Chevrolet_Suburban_%28GMT800%29_Washington_DC_Metro_Area%2C_USA.jpg","quote":"...I have a 2005 Chevy Suburban","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:suburban","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevy Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and towing capabilities. It's often used for family transport and as a work vehicle due to its size and versatility.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevy Suburban is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and has a lot of space for cargo. It's popular for families and people who need to tow things.","imageAttribution":"OWS Photography (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":993.76,"endTime":997.12,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Land","url":"/cars/toyota/land-cruiser","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1f/1982_Toyota_Land_Cruiser_BJ41.jpg","quote":"I purchased, Texter says a 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser last year was wondering, do I need to rustproof the underbody to prevent any possible corrosion?","canonicalId":"car:toyota:land-cruiser","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size SUV known for its off-road capability and luxury features. It's built on a rugged platform and is often used for both daily driving and adventurous off-road excursions.","simplifiedExplanation":"The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is a big SUV that can handle rough terrains and is also comfortable for everyday use. It's popular for its strength and luxury.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":998.8,"endTime":1001.2,"type":"term","title":"rustproofing","url":"/glossary/rust-proofing","quote":"do I need to rustproof the underbody to prevent any possible corrosion?","canonicalId":"term:rust-proofing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rustproofing is a process that helps protect a vehicle's metal surfaces from corrosion, which can occur due to exposure to moisture and salt. This can involve applying protective coatings or treatments to the underbody and other vulnerable areas.","simplifiedExplanation":"Rustproofing is a way to keep cars from getting rusty. It usually means putting a special coating on the metal parts to protect them from water and salt that can cause rust."}},{"startTime":1003.3,"endTime":1006.7,"type":"term","title":"undercoating","url":"/glossary/undercoating","quote":"Toyota told me that they dip the frame during manufacturing, but do not undercoat. Is there a difference between the two?","canonicalId":"term:undercoating","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Undercoating is a specific type of rustproofing that involves applying a protective layer to the underside of a vehicle. This helps shield it from moisture, dirt, and other elements that can lead to rust and corrosion over time.","simplifiedExplanation":"Undercoating is a special treatment applied to the bottom of a car to protect it from rust. It helps keep the metal safe from water and dirt that can cause damage."}},{"startTime":1133.62,"endTime":1135.42,"type":"car","title":"Hyundai Elantra","url":"/cars/hyundai/elantra","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6d/2017_Hyundai_Elantra%2C_Windsor%2C_Ontario%2C_2025-07-01.jpg","quote":"Here's the 2020 Hyundai Elantra, running lights, intermittent working. Could this be a short?","canonicalId":"car:hyundai:elantra","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2020 model features updated styling and technology, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Hyundai Elantra is a small car that is good on gas and has a lot of modern features. The 2020 version has a new look and some updated technology, making it a good option for people looking for an affordable car.","imageAttribution":"Crisco 1492 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1141.4,"endTime":1145.2,"type":"term","title":"intermittent issue","url":"/glossary/intermittent-issue","quote":"Most likely, in any time we see an intermittent issue, the fuse is not bad, you know, a bulb is not bad.","canonicalId":"term:intermittent-issue","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An intermittent issue refers to a problem that does not occur consistently, making it difficult to diagnose. In automotive terms, this could mean that a component works sometimes and fails at other times, often complicating repairs.","simplifiedExplanation":"An intermittent issue is a problem that happens sometimes but not all the time. This can make it tricky to figure out what's wrong because it doesn't happen every time you check it."}},{"startTime":1173.8,"endTime":1178.7,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Silverado","url":"/cars/chevrolet/silverado","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/04/2022_Chevrolet_Silverado_1500_Z71.png","quote":"the trailer brakes on my 2018 Silverano have not been working. I replaced the brake control module.","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:silverado","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and capability. The 2018 model features various engine options and advanced technology for towing and hauling.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevrolet Silverado is a large truck that can carry heavy loads and is often used for work or towing. The 2018 version has many features that help with these tasks.","imageAttribution":"LukaCali (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1178.7,"endTime":1180.9,"type":"part","title":"brake control module","url":"/glossary/brake-control-module","quote":"I replaced the brake control module. They still don't work.","canonicalId":"part:brake-control-module","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The brake control module is an electronic component that manages the braking system, especially in vehicles equipped with advanced braking features like trailer brakes. It ensures proper communication between the vehicle's systems and the brakes.","simplifiedExplanation":"The brake control module is a part of the car that helps control the brakes, especially when towing something. If it's not working, the brakes may not function properly."}},{"startTime":1182.6,"endTime":1184.4,"type":"term","title":"flashed","url":"/glossary/flashed","quote":"Does it need to be flashed? I'm not sure what that means.","canonicalId":"term:flashed","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Flashing refers to the process of updating or programming the software in a vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) or modules. This is often necessary after replacing components to ensure they function correctly with the vehicle's systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"Flashing means updating the software in a car's computer system. Sometimes, when you change parts, you need to do this so the new part works properly with the car."}},{"startTime":1188.1,"endTime":1190.6,"type":"term","title":"programming","url":"/glossary/programming","quote":"In some vehicles, when we replace modules, we have to program them or initiate them to the vehicle.","canonicalId":"term:programming","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Programming in automotive terms refers to the process of configuring or initializing a new module or component to work with the vehicle's existing systems. This often requires specialized tools and software to ensure compatibility.","simplifiedExplanation":"Programming is when you set up a new part in a car so it can work with everything else. It usually needs special tools to do this right."}},{"startTime":1193.4,"endTime":1196.8,"type":"term","title":"external software","url":"/glossary/external-software","quote":"A lot of times it requires external software that will plug into the vehicle and mate them.","canonicalId":"term:external-software","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"External software refers to specialized programs used to interface with a vehicle's electronic systems. This software is often required to diagnose issues, program new components, or perform updates on the vehicle's control modules.","simplifiedExplanation":"External software is a program that you use on a computer to connect to the car's systems. It helps fix problems or set up new parts."}},{"startTime":1302.82,"endTime":1305.3,"type":"car","title":"Ford F150","url":"/cars/ford/f-150","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/56/2022_Ford_F-150_Lightning_Rear.jpg","quote":"I have a 2011 F-150, have lost approximately four miles per gallon...","canonicalId":"car:ford:f-150","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and versatility. It's popular for both work and personal use, offering various configurations and engine options.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work or towing. It's known for being strong and reliable.","imageAttribution":"UltraTech66 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1310.0,"endTime":1313.1,"type":"term","title":"fuel economy","url":"/glossary/fuel-economy","quote":"...about fuel economy and my opinion's always been if a vehicle is using excessive amount of fuel...","canonicalId":"term:fuel-economy","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel economy refers to how efficiently a vehicle uses fuel, typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG). A drop in fuel economy can indicate various mechanical issues or changes in driving conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel economy is how far a car can go on a certain amount of gas. If it goes less far than before, something might be wrong."}},{"startTime":1328.6,"endTime":1330.0,"type":"term","title":"sensors","url":"/glossary/sensors","quote":"...there's a lot of sensors and systems in place for emissions. And if you're burning that much fuel...","canonicalId":"term:sensors","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Sensors in a vehicle monitor various systems and components, providing data to the engine control unit (ECU) to optimize performance and emissions. Common sensors include oxygen sensors, temperature sensors, and pressure sensors.","simplifiedExplanation":"Sensors are devices in your car that check different parts to make sure everything is working properly. They help the car's computer make adjustments for better performance."}},{"startTime":1330.0,"endTime":1331.9,"type":"term","title":"emissions","url":"/glossary/emissions","quote":"...there's a lot of sensors and systems in place for emissions. And if you're burning that much fuel...","canonicalId":"term:emissions","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Emissions refer to the gases and pollutants released into the atmosphere as a byproduct of fuel combustion in vehicles. Regulations often require vehicles to meet specific emissions standards to reduce environmental impact.","simplifiedExplanation":"Emissions are the gases that cars release into the air when they burn fuel. There are rules about how much pollution cars can produce to help protect the environment."}},{"startTime":1343.14,"endTime":1345.1,"type":"term","title":"miles per gallon","url":"/glossary/miles-per-gallon","quote":"It says I'm getting 17 miles a gallon, I used to get 22 or whatever it may be.","canonicalId":"term:miles-per-gallon","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's an important metric for evaluating fuel efficiency and can vary based on driving conditions and vehicle maintenance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Miles per gallon tells you how many miles a car can drive using one gallon of gas. A higher number means better fuel efficiency, which is good for saving money on gas."}},{"startTime":1404.9,"endTime":1406.9,"type":"term","title":"dry rotting","url":"/glossary/dry-rotting","quote":"...but we would call it like dry rotting. You know, a tire gets up over a decade and years...","canonicalId":"term:dry-rotting","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Dry rotting refers to the deterioration of rubber materials, such as tires, due to exposure to environmental factors like sunlight, ozone, and temperature changes. This process can lead to cracks and reduced performance, making the tires unsafe for use.","simplifiedExplanation":"Dry rotting happens when rubber tires get old and start to crack because of the sun and weather. It can make the tires unsafe to drive on."}},{"startTime":1549.3,"endTime":1552.1,"type":"car","title":"Pontiac Vibe","url":"/cars/pontiac/vibe-gt","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e1/03-04_Pontiac_Vibe_GT.jpg","quote":"...2006 Pontiac Vibe all wheel drive, 225,000 miles on it. Dexter says I had a recent oil change","canonicalId":"car:pontiac:vibe-gt","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Pontiac Vibe is a compact hatchback that was produced by Pontiac from 2002 to 2010. It shares its platform with the Toyota Matrix and is known for its practicality and reliability.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Pontiac Vibe is a small car that looks like a hatchback. It was made by Pontiac and is known for being useful and dependable.","imageAttribution":"IFCAR (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1558.3,"endTime":1562.0,"type":"part","title":"wheel bearing","url":"/glossary/wheel-bearing","quote":"And they said my right front wheel bearing is noisy and recommended I replace it. I looked on YouTube and saw it as a complicated procedure.","canonicalId":"part:wheel-bearing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls or rollers that allow the wheel to rotate smoothly. If a wheel bearing is noisy, it can indicate wear or damage, which may lead to more significant issues if not addressed.","simplifiedExplanation":"A wheel bearing helps your car's wheels turn easily. If it makes noise, it might be broken, and ignoring it could cause bigger problems later."}},{"startTime":1567.7,"endTime":1570.8,"type":"term","title":"labor cost","url":"/glossary/labor-cost","quote":"A recent quote said it would take $600 labor and three to $400 for parts.","canonicalId":"term:labor-cost","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Labor cost refers to the amount charged by a mechanic for the time spent working on a vehicle. It can vary based on the complexity of the job and the shop's hourly rate.","simplifiedExplanation":"Labor cost is what you pay a mechanic for their time when they work on your car. It can change depending on how hard the job is."}},{"startTime":1567.7,"endTime":1570.8,"type":"term","title":"parts cost","url":"/glossary/parts-cost","quote":"A recent quote said it would take $600 labor and three to $400 for parts.","canonicalId":"term:parts-cost","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Parts cost refers to the price of the components needed to repair or replace a vehicle's parts. This can include everything from small items to major components like engines or transmissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Parts cost is how much you pay for the actual pieces that need to be replaced in your car. This can be anything from small screws to big parts like brakes."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Audacy","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/battery-basics-getting-bugs-off-of-the-vehicle-fuel-efficiency-failure/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}