Ep. 302: The Worst Truck Tech We Didn't Ask For!
About this episode
A lively discussion about the most unwanted truck technologies, highlighting features that frustrate drivers. The hosts share their personal experiences with automatic stop-start systems, lane keep assist, and pop-out door handles, debating their practicality and user-friendliness. They also touch on the evolving truck market, including the need for more affordable options and the benefits of modern towing technology. With a mix of humor and critical analysis, this episode offers insights into what truck enthusiasts really want versus what manufacturers are providing.
( https://www.alltfl.com/ ) Check out our new spot to find ALL our content, from news to videos and our podcasts! In this episode of TFL Talkin’ Trucks, Roman and Kase dive into the worst truck tech that nobody asked for. From overly complicated multi-function electric tailgates to intrusive lane-keep assist systems and nonstop warning beeps, the guys rant about the frustrating features that make modern trucks less enjoyable to drive. Sometimes “innovation” just gets in the way — and they’re here to call it out.
They also share which tech features they actually like, how manufacturers could fix the most annoying ones, and what truck owners really want instead. It’s an honest, funny, and relatable episode that every frustrated truck owner will appreciate — especially if your rig won’t stop yelling at you for not wearing your seatbelt in the driveway.
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Mercedes Sprinter
"...he was just doing a Mercedes Sprinter van program. So he's going to have some Sprinter videos to share."
The Mercedes Sprinter is a large van that's great for transporting goods or people. It's popular for businesses and can also be turned into a camper for road trips.
The Mercedes Sprinter is a versatile van known for its spacious interior and cargo capacity, often used for commercial purposes and as a base for camper conversions.
Dodge Ram
"...y to Detroit, where he's, what's he picking up at Ram, right? Yeah, exactly."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that people use for heavy jobs and everyday driving. It's known for being strong and comfortable inside.
The Dodge Ram, now known as the Ram Truck, is a full-size pickup known for its strong performance and comfortable interior. It is significant for its blend of capability and luxury, making it a popular choice for both work and leisure.
trim level
"...a more affordable trim of a Ram pickup to drive back here..."
A trim level is a version of a car that has different features and options. Some versions are fancier and more expensive than others.
Trim level refers to the various versions of a vehicle model that come with different features, options, and price points. Higher trim levels usually include more luxury features and technology.
options
"...they've got all the options. They're the highest trim level."
Options are extra features you can choose to add to a car. They can make the car nicer or more useful, but they also cost more money.
Options refer to additional features or packages that can be added to a vehicle, allowing buyers to customize their cars according to their preferences and needs.
Ram 1500
"Is it going to be the, is it a 1500? It's a 1500, right?"
The Ram 1500 is a large truck that many people use for towing, hauling, or just driving around. It's known for being comfortable and having lots of features.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its combination of capability, comfort, and technology. It's popular among consumers looking for both work and leisure vehicles.
Pentastar engine
"And it's going to be, I think it's pentastar powered."
The Pentastar engine is a type of V6 engine made by Chrysler. It's designed to give good power while also being fuel-efficient.
The Pentastar engine is a family of V6 engines produced by Chrysler, known for its balance of performance and efficiency. It's commonly used in various Ram and Jeep models.
Cummins
"Now, before we get to kind of unwanted truck tech, let me ask you about your Cummins. I don't know if people know out there, but you have an old school Cummins, so tell me about your truck."
Cummins is a brand that makes powerful diesel engines used in many trucks. They're known for being strong and lasting a long time.
Cummins is a well-known manufacturer of diesel engines, particularly popular in heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles. Their engines are known for durability and performance, making them a favorite among truck enthusiasts.
12-valve Cummins
"Yeah, I've still got my same 12-off Cummins that we've done a bunch of videos with."
The 12-valve Cummins is a type of diesel engine that many truck owners love because it's simple and very reliable. It was often used in older Dodge trucks.
The 12-valve Cummins refers to a specific generation of Cummins diesel engines that were known for their simplicity and reliability. They were commonly used in Dodge Ram trucks during the 1990s and are favored by enthusiasts for their performance and ease of modification.
Ram
"So it's got a rebuilt transmission as Rams do. As Rams do? Yes."
Ram is a brand that makes trucks. They are known for being strong and good for carrying heavy loads.
Ram is a brand of trucks known for their durability and capability, often used for both work and personal purposes. They are popular for their towing capacity and rugged design.
rebuilt transmission
"So it's got a rebuilt transmission as Rams do. As Rams do? Yes."
A rebuilt transmission is when a mechanic takes apart a car's transmission, fixes any problems, and puts it back together. This can help the truck run better and last longer.
A rebuilt transmission is a transmission that has been disassembled, inspected, and repaired or replaced with new parts to restore it to working condition. This process can extend the life of the vehicle and improve performance.
rebuilt transfer case
"I also put a rebuilt transfer case in it as well. Wow, that's an old video."
A rebuilt transfer case is when a mechanic fixes the part of the truck that helps send power to the front and back wheels. This is important for trucks that can drive on all four wheels.
A rebuilt transfer case is similar to a rebuilt transmission; it involves disassembling the transfer case, inspecting it for wear, and replacing any damaged components. This is crucial for vehicles with four-wheel drive to ensure proper power distribution to the wheels.
hub assemblies
"...I did a bunch of steering parts on it and brake parts, hub assemblies with the wheel bearings,..."
Hub assemblies are parts that hold the wheels on a vehicle. They help the wheels turn smoothly and keep everything aligned.
Hub assemblies are crucial components that connect the wheel to the vehicle and house the wheel bearings. They play a vital role in ensuring smooth wheel rotation and proper alignment.
wheel bearings
"...hub assemblies with the wheel bearings, all kind of stuff."
Wheel bearings are small parts that help the wheels spin easily. They support the weight of the vehicle and make sure the wheels can turn without getting stuck.
Wheel bearings allow the wheels to rotate with minimal friction. They are essential for the smooth operation of the vehicle and support the weight of the vehicle while allowing the wheels to turn freely.
Ford Model T
"...the Model T. When the first consumer truck came out, let's call it the Model T truck, which we have by the way in our fleet."
The Ford Model T was one of the first cars that many people could buy. It changed how cars were made and made them cheaper and more available to everyone.
The Ford Model T was the first mass-produced automobile and is often credited with revolutionizing the automotive industry. It introduced assembly line production techniques, making cars affordable for the average consumer.
automatic stop start
"And that is automatic stop start. I think that is universally hated."
Automatic stop start is a system that turns off the engine when you're not moving, like at a red light, and turns it back on when you want to go. It's meant to save gas and help the environment.
Automatic stop start is a technology in vehicles that automatically shuts off the engine when the car is stopped, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it when the driver presses the accelerator. This feature is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Honda Passport
"we just recently did an MPG test in different driving modes on Honda Passport."
The Honda Passport is a type of SUV that has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's good for families and can handle off-road driving well.
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, off-road capability, and reliability. It is designed for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a balance of comfort and utility.
MPG
"And the difference we saw in MPG was five, five miles per gallon, which is a good amount."
MPG means how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at using fuel.
MPG stands for miles per gallon, a measure of fuel efficiency that indicates how many miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG values generally mean better fuel economy, which is desirable for cost savings and environmental impact.
stop-start system
"The other thing with stop start is, yeah, it feels a little funky."
A stop-start system turns off the engine when you're not moving, like at a red light, to save gas. It turns back on when you want to go again.
A stop-start system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped, such as at traffic lights, to save fuel and reduce emissions. The engine restarts when the driver releases the brake or presses the accelerator.
starter motor
"But people talk a lot about all the wear on your starter motors, but these these vehicles go through such rigorous testing and they've beefed up those starter motors to be able to handle that."
The starter motor is what helps start your car's engine. It spins the engine when you turn the key or push the start button.
The starter motor is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation by turning it over when you start the vehicle. It is crucial for starting the engine and can wear out over time, especially with frequent stop-start cycles.
CAFE
"...because of EPA and cafe numbers, which now are relevant..."
CAFE stands for Corporate Average Fuel Economy. It's a set of rules that requires car companies to make their vehicles more fuel-efficient, helping to save gas and reduce pollution.
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) refers to regulations in the United States aimed at improving the average fuel economy of cars and trucks produced by manufacturers. These standards require automakers to meet specific fuel efficiency targets for their fleets.
EPA
"No, the reason for that, of course, is because of EPA and cafe numbers, which now are relevant..."
The EPA is a government agency that helps protect the environment. They set rules for how much pollution cars can produce and how efficient they should be with fuel.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating environmental issues, including vehicle emissions and fuel economy standards. Their regulations aim to reduce pollution and promote cleaner air.
auto stop-start
"...for the auto stop start to have a bearing over the fuel economy figures like the EPA figure, it has to reset to being on every key cycle..."
Auto stop-start is a system that turns off the car's engine when you stop, like at a red light, and turns it back on when you start driving again. It helps save fuel and is better for the environment.
Auto stop-start is a technology that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stopped and restarts it when the driver releases the brake pedal. This feature is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, especially in city driving conditions.
Honda That Honda
"I'll give you an example of that. We've got that Honda Passport Trail Sport sitting right on front of th..."
The Honda That's is a small car that is great for city driving because it's easy to park and uses less gas. It's designed to be practical and efficient.
The Honda That's is a compact car known for its efficient use of space and practicality. It is significant in markets where small cars are preferred for urban driving and fuel efficiency.
speed limit warning
"...it turns back on now. In Europe, they've got these rules where I think it has to turn on every time you cycle the engine along with the dinghy when you exceed the speed limit."
A speed limit warning is a system in cars that tells you when you're driving faster than the speed limit. It usually makes a sound or shows a message on the screen to remind you to slow down.
A speed limit warning is a feature in some vehicles that alerts the driver when they exceed the posted speed limit. This is often accompanied by a visual or audible alert to encourage safe driving practices.
Ineos Grenadier
"...we used to have the Ineos Grenadier. And every time you key-cycled that, you had to do the over-the-speed limit warning."
The Ineos Grenadier is a tough, off-road vehicle made for people who need a reliable car for rough terrains. It's built to be simple and strong, similar to older utility vehicles.
The Ineos Grenadier is a rugged off-road vehicle designed for durability and capability, inspired by classic utility vehicles. It aims to provide a no-nonsense driving experience, focusing on functionality over luxury.
pop out door handles
"Number nine on the list here is pop out door handles. Now, this is the thing that has been around a long time, but Tesla really brought it into the mainstream."
Pop out door handles are handles that hide away when not being used, making the car look smoother. Tesla made these popular, but some people find them annoying because they can be tricky to use.
Pop out door handles are a type of automotive door handle that retracts into the body of the car when not in use, providing a sleek, flush appearance. Tesla popularized this design, which has both aesthetic and functional implications but can also lead to usability issues.
Rivian
"Cole, would you be so kind and Google, does Rivian have pop out door handles?"
Rivian is a company that makes electric trucks and SUVs. They are known for creating vehicles that are good for outdoor adventures.
Rivian is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its all-electric trucks and SUVs, such as the R1T and R1S. The company focuses on adventure-oriented vehicles and sustainable transportation.
Tesla Model
"...But I always worry about, you know, we just had a Tesla Model S from 2014 and we just sold it's got pop out do..."
Tesla Model S
"...we just had a Tesla Model S from 2014 and we just sold it's got pop out door handle. It's got a hundred and four thousand miles."
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric car that can go very far on a single charge. It has a simple design inside with a big screen to control everything.
The Tesla Model S is an all-electric luxury sedan known for its long range and high performance. It features advanced technology, including a minimalist interior and a large touchscreen interface.
Tesla Cybertruck
"Now to make it more annoying, Tesla took another step further down this road. They got rid of like actual door handles period in the Cybertruck. Remember how that work?"
The Tesla Cybertruck is a new type of electric truck from Tesla. It has a very different look and doesn't use traditional door handles, which makes it stand out.
The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup truck designed by Tesla, known for its futuristic design and unique features, including its unconventional door handle system.
electronic doors
"And then the other part that that kind of goes along with that is electronic doors period. So in order to make these things work, you can no longer just have a mechanical mechanism..."
Electronic doors are doors that open and close using electricity instead of just a handle. If the power goes out, these doors might not work, which can be a problem.
Electronic doors are mechanisms that use electrical power to operate, often replacing traditional mechanical systems. They can enhance convenience but may pose challenges if power is lost, as they may not function without electricity.
GMC Hummer EV
"But there are some offenders. We have the Hummer EV right now. What's a door handle like that?"
The GMC Hummer EV is a big electric truck that can go anywhere, even off-road. It's part of a new trend of electric cars that are good for the environment.
The GMC Hummer EV is an all-electric version of the iconic Hummer, known for its impressive off-road capabilities and advanced technology. It represents a shift towards electric vehicles in the truck segment, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Hummer EV
"But there are some offenders. We have the Hummer EV right now. What's a door handle like that?"
The Hummer EV is a new electric truck from the Hummer brand. Unlike traditional trucks, it uses electricity instead of gasoline and has some modern features like electronic door handles.
The Hummer EV is an all-electric pickup truck that represents a significant shift for the Hummer brand, which was known for its gas-guzzling SUVs. It features advanced technology and a unique design, including electronic door handles.
aerodynamics
"...because they're electric, a lot of these vehicles, they have to have very good aero. In other words, you don't want to have anything that creates bad wind flow."
Aerodynamics is how air moves around things, like cars. Good aerodynamics helps cars use less energy and go further, especially electric ones.
Aerodynamics refers to the way air flows around objects, which is crucial for vehicle design, especially for electric cars that rely on efficiency. Good aerodynamics can reduce drag and improve fuel economy.
Ford Edge
"... in that the trucks aren't always on the bleeding edge of technology in a lot of ways, which is I'm tha..."
The Ford Edge is a medium-sized SUV that has a lot of room inside and comes with modern tech features. It's a good choice for families who need space and comfort.
The Ford Edge is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and advanced technology features. It is significant for its balance of comfort and performance, making it a popular choice for families and commuters.
Android Auto
"...they're actually removing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, not just out of the electric cars, but out of all their vehicles..."
Android Auto is a feature that lets you connect your Android phone to your car, allowing you to use apps and get directions on the car's screen. It's designed to help you stay connected while driving safely.
Android Auto is a similar system for Android users that allows them to connect their smartphones to their vehicle's infotainment system. It provides access to navigation, music, and messaging apps, enhancing the connectivity between the phone and the car.
Honda Ridgeline
"... good job with storage. And the, while the Honda Ridgeline going all the way back has had that cubby that's ..."
The Honda Ridgeline is a truck that drives more like a car, making it comfortable and easy to handle. It has some clever storage spaces, which is handy for carrying things.
The Honda Ridgeline is a midsize pickup truck that stands out for its car-like ride and innovative features, such as a built-in trunk in the bed. It is significant for its practicality and comfort, appealing to those who want a truck for everyday use.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
"...you have a bunch of stuff in your bed. Yeah, the Santa Cruz is the same thing. Yeah, Santa Cruz so."
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a smaller truck that feels more like an SUV, making it comfortable to drive. It's useful for carrying things while still being easy to handle.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact pickup truck that combines the versatility of a truck with the comfort of an SUV. It is significant for its innovative design and practicality, appealing to those who need a vehicle for both work and leisure.
Toyota Tundra
"and then it won't unlock. The tundra is guilty of this. And then you've got to drive ..."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that people use for heavy work or outdoor activities. It's known for being tough and lasting a long time, which is why many people like to drive it.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its reliability and strong performance. It is significant for its durability and off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and those needing a robust vehicle for work or recreation.
BMW G80
"... products now, they've kind of gone away from the G80, and it's just like, boop, or the Ford product, ..."
The BMW M3 is a fast and fancy car that many people love to drive because it handles really well. It's like a sportier version of a regular BMW, designed for people who enjoy driving.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It is significant in the automotive world for its blend of luxury and performance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Jeep Gladiator
"...ock, and it just does it. Same thing with a Jeep Gladiator, great engagement. Jeep's got the problem with t..."
The Jeep Gladiator is a truck that can go off-road easily, like a Jeep. It has a bed in the back for carrying stuff, making it great for both work and play.
The Jeep Gladiator is a unique pickup truck that combines the off-road capabilities of a Jeep with the utility of a truck bed. It's significant for its rugged design and versatility, appealing to those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Toyota Tacoma
".... Yeah, I mean, compare the Panistar to like the Tacoma, the Gladiators of Tacoma. Or like a third dude ..."
The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller truck that people use for work and fun. It's known for being dependable and can handle rough terrains, which is great for outdoor adventures.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for its reliability and off-road prowess. It is significant for its versatility, making it a popular choice for both daily driving and outdoor activities.
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