Car Pro Radio Show July 11 26 Hour 1
About this episode
Jerry Reynolds and Todd Chambliss kick off with “straight talk” car buying help, plus a recap of their huge 250th birthday patriotic broadcast in Washington, including singing at the Kennedy Center. They read listener takes on what other drivers do that drives them crazy—top gripes include not signaling. The show also dives into hot topics: criticism of car advice from Dave Ramsey, calls for GM CEO Mary Barra to step aside, and debates over right-to-repair and manufacturers withholding repair data. A key segment covers a listener’s 2013 Cadillac CTS deal and whether it’s worth buying, plus advice on waiting for a Lexus RX 350h model year change.
Car Pro Radio Show July 11 26 Hour 1
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Buick Roadmaster
"...oice was Todd Chambers. He is we call him the old roadmaster around here. Yeah, it's the old kind of sickly ro..."
The Buick Roadmaster is a large, older-style car model from Buick. In the podcast, it sounds like the name is being used as a nickname, not necessarily to talk about a specific new car. The point is that the Roadmaster name is well known and memorable.
The Buick Roadmaster is a classic, full-size Buick model that’s known for its older-school, large-car character. It’s mentioned in the podcast through the “old Roadmaster” nickname, which points to the name’s recognition and legacy rather than a specific modern spec. That kind of reference usually comes up when the host is talking about a person or story connected to the brand’s history.
Cadillac Cts
"...ed in getting a new car and I'm looking at a 2013 Cadillac CTS premium. Yeah. And they're asking for 11600 dolla..."
The Cadillac CTS is a mid-size luxury car, similar to a sedan, made by Cadillac. The podcast mentions a 2013 CTS Premium because someone is considering buying one and comparing the price. It’s being talked about as a used-car option.
The Cadillac CTS is a mid-size luxury sedan that was offered in performance-leaning trims, making it a frequent choice for buyers who want a more engaging drive than a typical family sedan. In the podcast, it’s discussed as a specific used-car option (a 2013 CTS Premium) with a listed price, which is the kind of detail that matters when comparing affordability and trim content. That’s why it comes up in shopping conversations.
auto heat shield
"And this auto heat shield autoheat shield dot com is the website and you can put in car pro, all one word, all capital letters that check out."
An auto heat shield is a cover you put over your windshield to keep the sun from heating up the inside of your car. It helps the cabin stay cooler when you’re parked.
An auto heat shield is a windshield cover designed to block solar heat from entering the cabin. The idea is to reduce how much the interior warms up while the car is parked.
custom cut
"But this thing is custom cut to your car. That's the difference between them and all the other generic shades out there."
“Custom cut” means the windshield cover is made to match your car’s glass shape. A better fit usually blocks more sun because there are fewer gaps.
“Custom cut” means the heat shield is shaped to match the specific contours of a particular car’s windshield. That fit typically improves coverage and reduces gaps where sunlight can leak in.
windshield
"It blacks out the entire windshield. It will actually drop the interior, interior temperature of your car."
The windshield is the big front window of the car. Here, it’s important because the heat shield covers it to keep the inside cooler.
The windshield is the front glass panel of the car that blocks wind and weather while providing visibility. In this context, it’s the surface the heat shield covers to reduce cabin heating.
right to repair memo
"Yeah, the president's right to repair memo and what that means."
“Right to repair” is the idea that car owners should be able to get their cars fixed without being forced to go only to the dealership. It usually means getting the same repair information and access that mechanics need.
A “right to repair” memo is a policy push that argues vehicle owners and independent repair shops should be able to access the information and tools needed to fix modern cars. It’s usually about sharing service data, diagnostic access, and repair procedures rather than locking repairs to the automaker’s own channels.
ongoing debate
"This has been an ongoing debate for many, many years with people who want the auto manufacturers to share data with them on how to fix their own car."
This is the long argument about who should be allowed to access the information needed to repair cars. Car makers say it’s protected, while independent shops say they need it to fix cars properly.
This refers to the long-running dispute between automakers and independent repairers over access to repair data. Automakers often claim the data is proprietary, while repair advocates argue it’s necessary for safe, affordable repairs.
share data
"with people who want the auto manufacturers to share data with them on how to fix their own car."
In this context, “share data” means providing repair-relevant information such as diagnostic trouble codes, service procedures, and technical documentation. It’s the core issue in right-to-repair fights because modern cars rely on software and electronic systems to diagnose and fix faults.
proprietary
"They say it's proprietary."
“Proprietary” means the company says the information is protected and they don’t want others to have it. In car repair, that can mean limiting access to diagnostic and repair details.
“Proprietary” here means the automaker considers certain repair information and diagnostic access to be its own protected intellectual property. That claim is commonly used to justify limiting independent repairers’ access to the data needed for diagnostics and repairs.
iPhone
"Yeah, you bought an iPhone, but they're not going to tell you how to fix it because they don't want you to fix it."
They’re comparing cars to an iPhone: you can own the device, but the company may not make it easy to repair yourself. The analogy is about control over repair access.
The speaker uses the iPhone as an analogy for how a consumer can own a device but still not have full access to how it’s repaired. The point is that manufacturers may restrict repair instructions and tools to keep control of the ecosystem.
John Deere tractor
"John Deere tractor has been in the same fight for many years. And they're just about to settle a lawsuit over that."
They mention John Deere tractors to show this kind of repair-access fight happens in other industries too. It’s about whether owners and independent mechanics can get the information needed to fix the equipment.
The John Deere tractor example highlights that right-to-repair disputes aren’t unique to cars; they also affect agricultural equipment. John Deere has faced legal pressure over access to repair information and diagnostic capabilities for its machines.
turn signal
"What drives me crazy is drivers not signaling to take a turn. [738.0s] Yeah, I'm with you."
A turn signal is the light on your car that shows you’re turning or changing lanes. It’s important because it tells other drivers what you’re about to do.
A turn signal is the driver-controlled lighting system that indicates a planned lane change or turn. It’s required by traffic laws and is a key part of safe, predictable driving.
blinker
"It doesn't cost you anything to to use your blinker. [747.1s] Why don't you?"
A “blinker” is your turn signal—the lights that tell other drivers which way you plan to go. Using it helps prevent confusion and reduces the chance of a crash.
A “blinker” is the vehicle’s turn signal system, used to communicate your intended direction to other drivers. In practice, it’s controlled by a stalk and flashes a front and rear indicator light.
Lexus RX 350H
"I'm in the market for a Lexus RX 350H. [755.5s] Yeah. I looked at the 2026's."
The Lexus RX 350h is a luxury SUV that runs on a mix of gasoline and electric power. That hybrid setup is mainly there to help you get better gas mileage in normal driving.
The Lexus RX 350h is a midsize luxury SUV that uses a hybrid powertrain (the “h” stands for hybrid). It’s known for combining everyday comfort with improved fuel economy versus a non-hybrid RX.
model-year changes
"But researching and on YouTube and online [765.7s] for the 2027, they've making some changes. [769.3s] Do you think it's worth waiting?"
Car makers often update cars a little each year. Those updates can be small (new features) or bigger (changes under the hood), so people debate whether it’s better to buy the current year or wait for the next one.
“Model-year changes” are updates a manufacturer makes between model years, which can include styling tweaks, feature additions, or powertrain/software revisions. Whether it’s worth waiting depends on how big those changes are and how much you’d pay for the newer year.
hybrid
"You're smart to get the hybrid. That's what I would do if I were getting any kind of Toyota or Lexus, I'd get the hybrid not only for the field economy, but for the extra horsepower that you pick up as well."
A hybrid car uses gas and electricity together. That can help it get better gas mileage and feel a bit stronger when you accelerate.
A hybrid powertrain uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. The system can run on either power source or both, which usually improves fuel economy and can add extra torque for quicker response.
front and rear fascia
"And I did find out that the front and rear fascia is going to be changed. And it's the next generation drivetrain that they just came out with the Rev four."
Fascia is basically the car’s front and rear “outer front/rear styling” pieces, like the bumper area and the panels around the lights. A change to it usually means the car looks different and may be updated for airflow or new lighting.
Fascia refers to the front and rear body panels that surround the grille, headlights, and bumpers. When a manufacturer changes the front and rear fascia, it’s usually a styling refresh that can also affect cooling, aerodynamics, and how the lights/bumper systems are packaged.
Rev four
"And it's the next generation drivetrain that they just came out with the Rev four. Then OK, then then I would tell you about the 2026."
They’re talking about a newer version of the car’s power system that sends power to the wheels. “Next generation drivetrain” usually means improvements in how the car runs and uses fuel.
“Rev four” is presented as the next-generation drivetrain name in the discussion. Drivetrain refers to the components that transfer power from the engine/motors to the wheels, so a “next generation” drivetrain typically means updated hardware and control software for efficiency, performance, and emissions.
powertrain
"If you're going to keep this thing a very long time, we know what we've got today. It's a great powertrain. I wouldn't risk a new one right now."
Powertrain is the main mechanical system that moves the car. It includes the engine and the parts that send power to the wheels.
Powertrain is the full set of components that make the car move, typically including the engine, transmission, driveshaft(s), and final drive. When someone calls a powertrain “great,” they’re usually talking about how well it delivers power, shifts, and overall drivability.
lease to buy
"My repair of my person that I use at my Lexus dealership suggested I go with the lease to buy would be less money. But I do a lot of driving."
“Lease to buy” means you start by paying to use the car for a while, and then you may be able to turn that into actually owning it. They’re saying it might be cheaper than buying outright in their situation.
“Lease to buy” refers to structuring a purchase where you start with a lease and then transition into owning the vehicle later. The speaker says their Lexus dealership recommendation suggested this could cost less than other options.
sciatic issue
"I have a sciatic issue in those seats. I don't know. They're not the most comfortable, but I think I don't know what to do."
They’re dealing with a sciatic nerve problem, which can cause pain or discomfort in the lower body. They’re saying the seat comfort matters a lot for them because of that.
A “sciatic issue” refers to problems related to the sciatic nerve, which can cause pain, numbness, or discomfort that radiates through the buttock and down the leg. The speaker mentions it to explain why the car’s seats may not feel comfortable during long drives.
Lexus RX hybrid
"because a new a new Lexus RX hybrid is going to run you close to seventy thousand dollars today. So for those reasons, I think I would look at a certified pre-owned RX hybrid."
They’re referring to a Lexus RX hybrid, which is a Lexus crossover that uses both gas and electricity. They mention it because buying a newer one is expensive compared to what the speaker already has.
The Lexus RX hybrid is a hybrid version of the RX crossover, combining a gasoline engine with an electric system to improve efficiency. In this segment, it’s used as a pricing reference point for what a newer RX hybrid costs.
Subaru Outback Wilderness
"The Subaru Outback Wilderness I've had this week was a pearl white shade."
The Subaru Outback Wilderness is a special version of the Outback that’s meant to handle rougher roads better than the standard model. It’s the “more rugged” trim you’d pick if you want an outdoorsy vibe.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness is a trim of the Subaru Outback wagon/SUV that’s aimed at rougher off-road-style use. It’s typically associated with more rugged styling and off-road-focused setup compared with regular Outback trims.
freeway
"I'm on the freeway here in northeast Ohio when the snow flies and you're on the freeway."
A freeway is a high-speed, limited-access road where cars typically travel faster and with less room for sudden changes. That matters in snow because drivers have less time to react to unexpected visual cues like hazard lights.
roadside emergency flashers
"But they have the need to turn on their roadside emergency flashers."
“Roadside emergency flashers” means your hazard lights—the ones that blink to warn other drivers. In snow or rain, turning them on at the wrong time can distract people and make driving more confusing.
Roadside emergency flashers are the vehicle’s hazard lights, used to warn other drivers of a dangerous situation or that the car is stopped/at risk. In bad weather, using them when you don’t actually need them can confuse drivers and make it harder to judge what’s happening on the road.
Ford Explorer
"I'm looking looking for SUV with some horsepower. Explorer trimmer or Sequoia S or five."
The Ford Explorer is an SUV with different versions (trims). The caller is basically saying they want one with enough power.
The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV known for offering different trims with varying power and features. In this segment, the caller is considering an Explorer trim as an option that has enough horsepower for their needs.
sunroof
"I don't want a panoramic roof or a sunroof man roof. Any of that extra for what I don't want."
A sunroof is a glass panel in the roof that can open for extra light and fresh air. The caller here is saying they don’t want that kind of roof feature.
A sunroof is a roof opening (usually glass) that can tilt or slide to let in light and air. The caller is specifically saying they don’t want a panoramic roof or a sunroof-style opening, preferring a normal solid roof instead.
Cadillac Escalade IQ
"I just reviewed last week and it was in yesterday's newsletter, the Cadillac Escalade IQ. All electric, massive Cadillac. It's got a big panoramic moon roof in in the top, except it's fixed."
The Cadillac Escalade IQ is a big Cadillac SUV that runs on electricity. In this segment, they’re talking about its large glass roof and how it can make the cabin feel much hotter in extreme heat.
The Cadillac Escalade IQ is an all-electric version of Cadillac’s large Escalade SUV. It’s notable here because the host points out its fixed glass panoramic roof, which can trap heat—especially in hot climates like Texas.
panoramic moon roof
"It's got a big panoramic moon roof in in the top, except it's fixed. It's fixed glass."
A panoramic moon roof is a big glass section in the roof that lets in more light. If it doesn’t open, it can still act like a heat collector when the sun is strong.
A panoramic moon roof is a large glass roof panel that spans a wider area than a standard sunroof, giving more light and an open feel. When it’s fixed glass (not venting or opening), it still lets in solar heat, which can significantly raise cabin temperatures in hot weather.
fixed glass
"It's got a big panoramic moon roof in in the top, except it's fixed. It's fixed glass."
Fixed glass is a glass roof piece that doesn’t move. Since it can’t open to let heat out, it can make the inside of the car hotter in summer.
Fixed glass means the glass roof panel does not open or vent; it’s sealed in place. Because it can’t vent hot air, it can make the cabin heat up more quickly in very hot climates.
sliding cover
"So even as long as it's got a sliding cover where I can cover up the glass, I'm OK with the moon roof."
A sliding cover is the shade that you pull over a glass roof panel. The host is saying that if you can cover the glass when you want, it makes the moon roof less annoying.
A sliding cover is the retractable shade or panel that moves over a moon roof’s glass to block sunlight and reduce airflow. The host says that as long as the glass can be covered, he’s comfortable with having the moon roof.
Nissan Armada
"Look at my if you're on something that's big and fast, go to car pro dot com and put Armada up in the search box. I want you to look at the Armada that I reviewed."
The Nissan Armada is a big family SUV from Nissan. It’s designed to be comfortable and capable, and the host is saying the one he reviewed was quick and looks great, and it costs less than a Toyota Sequoia.
The Nissan Armada is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV built for towing and highway comfort, powered by a V8 in most model years. In this segment, the host is pointing listeners to a specific Armada review and emphasizing that it feels “fast” and “beautiful,” framing it as a value alternative to another large SUV.
Toyota Sequoia
"I mean, just beautiful and it will run you less money than a sequoia"
The Toyota Sequoia is a large Toyota SUV. In this clip, it’s mentioned mainly as a benchmark for cost, with the host implying the Armada is cheaper.
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV known for strong resale value and a reputation for durability. Here, it’s used as a pricing comparison point—suggesting the Nissan Armada the host reviewed can cost less than a Sequoia.
Ford Expedition
"...d it will run you less money than a sequoia or an expedition trimmer. So you might and I've reviewed both thos..."
The Ford Expedition is a large SUV meant for carrying people and gear, especially on road trips. It’s the kind of vehicle people compare when they’re trying to find a big, practical SUV for less money. The podcast likely mentioned it because of its overall cost and what it offers.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV built for families and long-distance driving, with seating and cargo space designed to handle bigger trips. It often comes up in value discussions because buyers compare its pricing and features against other large SUVs. In a podcast, it’s a common topic when the conversation turns to what you get for the money in the full-size segment.
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