Episode 13: Does Bob Lutz Count As A Problematic Fave [With Guest Liam McAnderson]

A rear shock absorber (often just called a “shock”) dampens up-and-down motion from bumps so the tires keep better contact with the road. If a shock fails, the suspension can bottom out and you may hear harsh impacts as metal components hit their limits.

The Ford Fusion is a mid-size sedan from Ford. In this segment it’s mentioned because the speaker says the rear shock failed while they were sitting on/near it, making the ride unsafe.

Stellantis is a major global automaker formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group. It owns many car brands and supplies vehicles and parts across multiple markets.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are referenced in the context of sports fandom and draft picks, not as an automotive topic. This mention is mainly cultural rather than car-related.

The Philadelphia Eagles are referenced as part of a sports comparison about draft picks. It doesn’t connect to automotive engineering or buying decisions.

The hosts are discussing the affordability of cars, using a news story as a jumping-off point. In car culture, this usually refers to how prices and financing costs affect what people can realistically buy.

This refers to a large public database of economic statistics maintained by the U.S. Federal Reserve. The speaker uses it to pull historical data related to the automotive industry and affordability.

This is a regional Federal Reserve bank in the U.S. that hosts the FRED database. In the segment, it’s mentioned as the source of the economic data used for the automotive-cost discussion.

FRED is the popular name for the Federal Reserve Economic Data website run by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. It provides time-series charts and downloadable data, which the speaker uses to analyze automotive industry trends.

This is a statistic about car ownership rates in the U.S. It’s relevant because it frames cars as a widespread necessity, which affects how affordability and maintenance costs impact most households.

This statistic describes how many workers rely on cars for commuting, either driving themselves or carpooling. It supports the argument that cars are a major expense and part of daily life for many Americans.

A “work shuttle” is a dedicated vehicle route used to move people between locations for a specific purpose (like commuting to a job site or campus). In this segment, it’s described like a limo-style van used for transportation rather than a public bus route.

Regional rail refers to train services that connect cities and towns over medium distances, usually with more frequent stops than long-distance intercity trains. It’s being used here as part of the speaker’s travel route to Wilmington, Delaware.

In this context, “transit” means public transportation—like buses or trains—used to commute instead of driving a private car. It’s being discussed as an uncommon choice for getting to work.

Cox Auto refers to a data/reporting service that tracks vehicle pricing over time. In this segment, it’s used as the source for month-by-month reporting on average car prices.

“All time high” means the highest level a price metric has ever reached in the dataset being referenced. The hosts discuss how car prices are at (or near) their peak, and then clarify the comparison method (including inflation adjustment).

Adjusting for inflation converts past prices into today’s dollars, so you can compare “real” price changes rather than just nominal sticker prices. The hosts use this to explain whether car prices are truly higher than earlier peaks when accounting for the changing value of money.

CPI (Consumer Price Index) is an inflation measure. Here, the guest mentions a CPI specifically for car prices, which helps compare how car costs change over time after accounting for general inflation.

Heated seats are seats with built-in electric heating elements controlled by switches or a climate system. The hosts mention heated seats even on very low-trim cars to argue that “minimum standards” for comfort features have risen.

Kia is the automaker used here as an example of a mainstream brand offering comfort features on lower trims. The point is that features once reserved for higher-end cars are now common even in entry-level models.

“Standard content” refers to features included as standard equipment rather than optional add-ons. The hosts connect higher standard content levels to higher prices, since more included features can raise the base cost of the car.

The Subaru Outback is a popular Subaru wagon/crossover built for everyday comfort with a more rugged, outdoors-oriented vibe. In this segment, the hosts use it as an example of how the price of a “core” model has risen over time.

A model refresh is a mid-cycle update automakers make to an existing car generation—often including styling changes, interior updates, and sometimes new engines or tech. The hosts argue that pandemic delays pushed these refresh timelines back, which can affect pricing and feature availability.

The BMW 3 Series is BMW’s compact executive sedan/near-luxury staple line. Here it’s mentioned as an example of a major model refresh cycle that got delayed, which can affect pricing and what features are standard.

A manual transmission (often just called “manual”) is a gearbox where the driver selects gears using a clutch pedal and gear lever. The speaker mentions “maybe a manual” as part of what they remember about the Civic being more affordable and simpler.

“Stick shift” is slang for a manual transmission, where the driver uses a clutch pedal and gear lever to change gears. It’s often preferred by enthusiasts because it gives more direct control of engine speed.

“Straight piped” means the exhaust system has been modified to remove one or more mufflers/catalyst-related restrictions, routing exhaust gases with minimal filtering. This usually makes the car louder and can affect emissions compliance and drivability.

The speaker mentions driving a straight-piped Toyota Supra after leaving the dealership. The Supra is a performance sports coupe, and “straight piped” implies the exhaust was modified to remove restrictions, typically increasing sound and sometimes changing performance.

“Peeled out” describes spinning the driven wheels while the car is stationary or moving very slowly, usually to heat up tires and/or clear debris. It’s commonly associated with aggressive driving and can accelerate tire wear.

JD Power is a market research company known for publishing vehicle quality and reliability studies. The speaker is referencing JD Power’s findings about how often new-car problems are reported.

In modern cars, “software” can control many systems beyond infotainment, including engine management, driver-assistance features, and electronic modules. The speaker is suggesting that software complexity and bugs can be a major source of reported new-car problems.

“Supply chain issues” refers to disruptions in how parts and materials get sourced and delivered to manufacturers. In cars, shortages or substitutions can lead to changes in components or production timing, which can contribute to quality problems.

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover SUV known for being practical, widely used, and available in many trims. The podcast specifically mentions a “24 RAV4 XLE,” which indicates a particular model year and mid-to-upper trim level. It’s discussed because it’s a relatable, everyday car choice and a reference point for how the host drives.

“Rear climate vents” are the air outlets in the back seat area that let rear passengers get heating or cooling. If a vehicle lacks them, rear-seat comfort can be harder to control.

A “CarPlay glitch” refers to problems with Apple CarPlay, the system that mirrors an iPhone’s apps onto the car’s infotainment screen. A screen flashing red for seconds suggests a software/connection issue between the phone and the head unit.

“Infotainment” is the car’s electronics for media and information—typically the touchscreen, audio controls, navigation, and phone integration. When someone calls it “hell,” they’re usually complaining about usability, lag, or bugs.

The speaker mentions their Nissan and says it has unusually strong Bluetooth connectivity. In this context, Nissan is the car brand they’re using as the example of the tech working well.

Bluetooth range is the effective distance over which a car can maintain a wireless connection to a phone (for audio streaming, calls, and pairing). Real-world range varies with phone model, signal interference, and whether the phone is in the cabin or outside.

“Stalantis” appears to be a mishearing of “Stellantis,” the multinational automaker formed from a merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. The speaker is using it as a brand/company name reference in the conversation.

The speaker mentions a “Ferrari 812 replacement,” referring to the next-generation successor to the Ferrari 812 Superfast. The 812 is known for its naturally aspirated V12 character, so a replacement is a major talking point for enthusiasts.

A start/stop switch controls the engine start and stop function. In some cars—especially with modern infotainment-heavy interiors—this can be integrated into touch controls, which can affect how quickly and confidently drivers can use it.

A capacitive touch screen uses the electrical properties of your skin to detect touch, rather than a physical button press. In cars, this can change usability—especially while driving—because it relies on accurate touch input instead of tactile feedback.

An “interior refresh option” refers to an updated interior package or retrofit that changes the cabin controls and materials after the original design. In this context, the speaker is saying the car already has an option to update the interior, yet the criticized control layout still exists.

A turbo (turbocharger) forces more air into the engine, allowing it to make more power without needing a larger engine. When someone says they’re going to “make this turbo miserable,” they’re talking about stressing the turbo-equipped setup under hard driving.

“Vehicle dependent dependability ratings” refers to how dependable vehicles are measured across different models and conditions, typically based on reported problems. The key idea is that dependability scores are changing over time, not just one-off complaints.

Fuel efficiency is how much distance a vehicle can travel per unit of fuel (or, in broader terms, how efficiently it uses energy). The speaker argues that since 2015, gas-powered fuel efficiency gains have largely stalled, while improvements have come mainly from hybrids/EVs.

EVs are electric vehicles that use electric motors powered by batteries instead of burning gasoline. The speaker’s point is that efficiency improvements have been driven largely by EV adoption rather than by steady gains in gas-only cars.

The Chevrolet Nova is a nameplate used for compact-to-intermediate cars that became popular in multiple generations. The podcast mentions it in a playful, show-related way (“Nova Robot Boys”), indicating it’s being referenced as a recognizable model name rather than a deep technical topic. It’s brought up because the Nova name has enough cultural and automotive recognition to land with listeners.

CVT stands for continuously variable transmission. It uses a belt or chain and variable pulleys to keep the engine near an efficient operating point across a wide range of speeds.

EV means electric vehicle—cars powered primarily by electricity stored in a battery rather than gasoline. The speaker is framing EVs as a practical alternative given fuel costs and long-distance driving.

“Premium” and “mid grade” are fuel octane ratings. Higher-octane fuel is often recommended for engines designed to run with it, typically to prevent knock and allow more aggressive ignition timing.

The speaker is considering a Volvo V60, a wagon-style model from Volvo. They specifically mention the Cross Country variant, which is Volvo’s more rugged, higher-stance take on the V60 lineup.

A mild hybrid adds a small electric motor and battery to assist the engine, usually for smoother starts, some regenerative braking, and limited electric assist. It’s generally less complex than a full hybrid, but it still adds components that can fail and cost money to repair.

“Pre-owned” refers to buying a used car rather than a new one. In this context, the speaker is worried about not knowing how a mild-hybrid system has been driven or maintained.

The Honda Civic Type R is a performance version of the Civic, tuned for track-style driving with a stronger engine and sport-focused chassis setup. It’s typically priced far above a regular Civic because of the extra performance hardware and limited production.

The Volkswagen Golf R is the high-performance, all-wheel-drive variant of the Golf. It’s often compared with other hot hatches and compact performance sedans because it blends everyday usability with more power and grip.

The Audi RS 3 is a performance version of the Audi A3 line, built to deliver sporty handling and strong acceleration. In the podcast, it’s brought up as a pricing/option comparison (“get an RS3 for six grand more”), which makes it relevant to value and what buyers might choose. It’s discussed because it’s a compact, high-performance alternative within the broader performance EV/ICE talk.

The Volkswagen GTI is the performance-focused trim of the Golf, usually with a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. It’s a popular “hot hatch” because it offers real driving fun without going all the way to the Golf R’s higher price.

This is a reference to the post-pandemic used-car market staying inflated for longer than many people expected. When used prices don’t “come back,” it means buyers pay more than historical norms for pre-owned vehicles.

Carvana is an online used-car retailer that buys and sells vehicles through a digital sales process. The speaker mentions using it to sell their GTI, highlighting how these platforms can affect pricing and convenience.

“At the wheels” is a dyno measurement of horsepower delivered to the drivetrain after losses in the engine and transmission. It’s often lower than the factory “rated” horsepower because it reflects what actually reaches the tires.

“Heavily modified” means the car has been changed substantially from its factory configuration, typically to increase power, improve handling, or alter drivability. In enthusiast circles, this can include engine tuning, turbo upgrades, suspension changes, and drivetrain work.

“Front wheels” indicates the car’s drive wheels—here, the power is sent to the front axle (front-wheel drive). That affects traction, handling balance, and how torque is managed during acceleration.

A “stoplight” is an everyday term, but in this context it’s being used to describe a launch/acceleration event—starting from a standstill at an intersection. That’s relevant because modified high-power cars can behave differently during initial traction and throttle application.

Finance rates are the interest rates lenders charge for auto loans. In practice, they strongly influence monthly payments and the total cost of financing a new car.

APR (annual percentage rate) is the interest rate used to calculate the cost of borrowing money for a car loan. When people say “your APR,” they mean the rate that determines how much extra you pay on top of the loan principal.

Loan length is how many months (or years) you have to repay an auto loan. Longer loan lengths can lower the monthly payment, but they often increase total interest paid over time.

Monthly payment is the fixed amount you pay each month to repay a car loan. It’s driven by the loan amount, APR, and loan length, so changes in interest rates can noticeably move it.

The discussion focuses on how auto-loan terms for new cars are changing—specifically, how many loans are being stretched to longer durations. That matters because longer terms can increase total interest paid even if the monthly payment looks manageable.

“Used car loans” are financing loans taken out to buy a pre-owned vehicle. The episode is using loan terms and averages to estimate what buyers are likely paying for used cars.

“Amount financed” is the dollar amount the lender actually finances for the purchase. It’s different from the car’s sticker price because it can exclude taxes/fees or include them depending on how the financing is structured.

“Out the door” (often abbreviated OTD) is the total price you pay to complete the purchase, including taxes, registration, and dealer fees. It’s a key number because it reflects the real cash cost beyond the advertised price.

“Correlation not causation” is the idea that two things can move together without one directly causing the other. In car discussions, it often comes up when people use graphs of reported issues to imply a brand or model is the cause, even though other factors could be involved.

The Fiat 500 is a small city car from Fiat, known for its compact size and easy parking. In this segment, it’s mentioned as a “beater” that still gets driven more than expected, which is a common real-world ownership story for small cars.

Limp mode is a protective driving mode where the car limits power and sometimes changes how it shifts to prevent damage after it detects a fault. It’s meant to get you to a shop safely, but it usually feels sluggish and may cap speed or throttle response.

The interest rate is the percentage cost of borrowing money on a loan. Higher interest rates increase the monthly payment and the total amount paid over the life of the loan.

“Repossessions per capita” is a rate that normalizes repossessions by population size, letting you compare regions or time periods fairly. It’s a way to gauge how widespread loan distress is, rather than just counting raw repossession numbers.

“Delinquent by 90 or more days” means borrowers have missed payments for at least three months. In auto-lending, that’s a common threshold used to flag loans that are seriously behind and often precede repossession or default.

“Subprime” refers to borrowers with weaker credit profiles, which makes lenders charge higher interest rates or apply stricter terms. When a large share of auto loans is subprime, it increases the risk of delinquencies during economic stress.

The Producer Price Index (PPI) measures price changes at the producer/wholesale level rather than what consumers pay at retail. They’re using it as another indicator that insurance-related costs have risen sharply.

When an insurer says a car is “totaled,” it means the damage is so expensive to repair that the payout is cheaper than fixing it. Modern cars can be totaled more often because repairs involve expensive parts and complex systems.

“Safety systems” refers to modern driver-assistance and crash-protection technologies (like sensors, cameras, and automated braking). When these are damaged, repairs can take longer and cost more, which can increase the odds of a vehicle being totaled.

“Per capita fatalities” is a way to compare road deaths by adjusting for how many people live in a given place. Instead of looking only at total deaths, it uses deaths per population to make locations more comparable.

“Pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities” refers to deaths of people outside the vehicle—walking or riding a bike—rather than occupants. This matters because many road-safety improvements that protect drivers don’t automatically protect vulnerable road users.

Vision Zero is a road-safety strategy aimed at eliminating traffic deaths and serious injuries. It typically relies on redesigning streets and intersections (not just enforcement) so that crashes are less likely to happen and, if they do, are less likely to be fatal.

A roundabout is a circular intersection where traffic flows around a central island, usually with yield control for entering vehicles. Compared with traditional intersections, roundabouts can reduce high-speed collision angles and lower the severity of crashes, especially for pedestrians and cyclists.

The Cadillac Escalade is a large full-size luxury SUV. In the context of Vision Zero and pedestrian safety, the point is that big, tall vehicles can be more dangerous to people outside the car because of higher front-end height and mass in a collision.

The “Honda Civic Burger Index” is a playful, data-driven way to compare how long it takes to buy a Honda Civic across different trim levels. It borrows the idea of using a common “basket” item to stand in for broader economic comparisons, then applies it to car pricing and affordability.

The Honda Civic is a long-running compact car line from Honda, and it’s often used as a benchmark for mainstream pricing and affordability. In this segment, it’s the subject of an index meant to compare how long it takes to buy the car across similarly equipped trims.

The Big Mac Index is an economic “price comparison” concept that uses the price of a McDonald’s Big Mac as a rough gauge of currency value and purchasing power. In this episode, it’s referenced as a model for how to build an affordability index for cars.

The Honda Accord is a midsize family sedan from Honda. In this segment, it’s mentioned as a step up from a Civic and positioned as a practical, roomy option for everyday use.

The Honda Prelude is a compact sports coupe from Honda, known for its styling and driving feel across multiple generations. In this segment, the speaker says they keep building Preludes, suggesting a personal interest in that model line.

Residual value is how much a car is worth later, after depreciation. The speaker argues that a “newish” car (around five years old) in good condition can retain strong residual value—meaning you can sell it for a relatively high price compared to what you paid.

Tesla is the automaker being discussed, specifically in relation to its product announcements and future plans. Here, the conversation centers on Tesla’s Roadster timing and what it signals for the brand’s direction.

A shareholder event is a meeting or presentation where a company updates its investors about strategy, product plans, and financial outlook. In this context, the hosts say the Roadster timing was announced at a recent shareholder event.

A “flying car” is a vehicle that can drive on roads and also fly like an aircraft. The segment mentions it as a teased future concept, contrasting it with the fact that flying cars aren’t broadly available yet.

“Mass delusion” is a rhetorical way of saying a large group of people collectively believed something unrealistic or unproven. Here, it’s used to criticize early EV hype—specifically the gap between big promises and what was actually available.