Inside the Garage: Recalls, Racing, and the Hidden Cost of “Cheap” Car Parts
About this episode
Exploring the hidden dangers of counterfeit car parts, this episode dives into alarming stories of failed components leading to severe engine damage. The hosts discuss the rise of counterfeit parts, particularly during the pandemic, and share personal anecdotes about their own experiences with unreliable online purchases. The episode also covers recent vehicle recalls, including fire risks in BMWs and other brands, and features a fun segment guessing sold car prices, highlighting the value of classic models. It's an engaging mix of automotive news, history, and practical advice.
A bargain part that looks perfect, installs easily, and quietly destroys your engine months later—that’s the nightmare more drivers are waking up to. We dig into the growing wave of counterfeit auto parts sold online, from fake water pumps that toast head gaskets to sensors that never program and starters that die long before their time. As shop policies shift to protect both customers and reputations, we share how to source smarter, when to insist on OEM, and what “too good to be true” looks like in the real world.
From there, we widen the lens. A rapid-fire recall rundown spans multiple brands and real safety risks—corroding starter relays tied to fires, camera failures that erase visibility, and steering components that can detach. We talk through how to check your VIN, schedule fixes, and understand why these campaigns matter.
Then we have some fun with market surprises in “guess the sold price,” where a resto-mod ’69 Camaro brings big money, a clean ’82 Mustang tempts first-time buyers, and an unlikely Amphicar floats to a premium. The thread through it all is value—when it’s real, when it’s hype, and how to tell the difference.
We round out the ride with racing highlights and a compact tour through auto history, connecting today’s choices to yesterday’s milestones—from Henry Ford’s early credibility on the track to the Model T’s scale, the Chevy-Ford rivalry, Plymouth’s role in accessibility, and the elegance and exit of Duesenberg.
Along the way, we unpack tire buying the smart way: using trusted installers, reading codes, and understanding OE fitment without falling for counterfeits. If you care about reliability, safety, and the thrill of owning something that lasts, this conversation gives you the tools to buy better and drive with confidence. If you enjoyed it, subscribe, share with a friend who wrenches on weekends, and leave a quick review so more car lovers can find us.
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
water pump
"Here's our story of the week a failed water pump now... a water pump led to a blown head gasket in a toy or three us wrecking the engine..."
The water pump helps keep the engine cool by moving coolant around. If it stops working, the engine can get too hot and break.
A water pump is a critical component of a vehicle's cooling system, responsible for circulating coolant through the engine and radiator to maintain optimal operating temperatures. If it fails, it can lead to overheating and severe engine damage.
head gasket
"...a failed water pump led to a blown head gasket in a toy or three us wrecking the engine..."
The head gasket seals the part of the engine where the fuel burns. If it breaks, it can cause serious problems like mixing oil and coolant.
The head gasket is a crucial seal between the engine block and cylinder head, preventing coolant and engine oil from mixing. A blown head gasket can lead to significant engine damage and costly repairs.
spark plug
"...a spark plug melted and fell into its cylinder ruining the engine of a toyota land cruiser..."
A spark plug helps start the engine by creating a small spark that ignites the fuel. If it breaks, the engine might not run well.
A spark plug is a device in the engine that ignites the air-fuel mixture, allowing the engine to run. If a spark plug fails or malfunctions, it can lead to engine misfires and performance issues.
Toyota Land
"...a spark plug melted and fell into its cylinder ruining the engine of a toyota land cruiser..."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a strong SUV that can handle tough roads and off-road adventures. It's known for being very reliable.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a rugged and reliable SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. It has a long history and is often used in challenging terrains and conditions.
Toyota Camry
"A starter in a toyota camry malfunctioned after a year..."
The Toyota Camry is a well-known car that many people use for everyday driving. It's known for being dependable and good on gas.
The Toyota Camry is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability and comfort. It's often favored for its practicality and fuel efficiency.
counterfeit parts
"And billed as and looked like genuine toyota parts... But they were counterfeit according to..."
Counterfeit parts are fake car parts that pretend to be real. They can be cheaper but often don't work well and can cause problems with your car.
Counterfeit parts are imitation components that are sold as genuine but do not meet the original manufacturer's quality standards. Using these parts can lead to vehicle malfunctions and safety issues.
counterfeit auto parts
"Counterfeit auto parts are growing... The pandemic played a big role because of millions of consumers under uh stay at home orders started shopping more online"
Counterfeit auto parts are fake car parts that pretend to be real ones. They can be unsafe because they might not work correctly, which can cause problems for your car.
Counterfeit auto parts are imitation products that are made to look like genuine parts but do not meet the same quality or safety standards. These parts can be dangerous as they may fail to perform properly, leading to potential accidents or vehicle damage.
airbags
"...The biggest one was airbags people try to change out their airbags still and you know, that's one of those things that..."
Airbags are special cushions in cars that pop out to keep you safe during a crash. Fake airbags might not work at all, which can be very dangerous.
Airbags are safety devices in vehicles that inflate rapidly during a collision to protect occupants from injury. Counterfeit airbags may not deploy correctly, posing serious risks to passengers.
Chevrolet Corvette
"And that was with the corvette"
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast sports car made by Chevrolet. It's famous for its sleek look and powerful performance.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engines. It's a classic American sports car that has been in production since 1953.
emergency blinker relay
"you helped me put in the emergency blinker relay you know had to take dash apart..."
The emergency blinker relay is a part in your car that helps the hazard lights work. If it breaks, the lights won't turn on when you need them.
The emergency blinker relay is an electrical component that controls the operation of the vehicle's hazard lights. If it fails, the lights may not function properly, which can be a safety issue.
tire pressure monitoring system
"Right tire pressure monitoring system. Yeah, you had that done."
A tire pressure monitoring system is a feature in cars that checks if the tires have enough air. If the air is low, it warns the driver to avoid problems while driving.
A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is a safety feature in vehicles that monitors the air pressure in the tires. It alerts the driver if the pressure is too low, which can help prevent tire blowouts and improve fuel efficiency.
TPC numbers
"Uh tpc numbers on tires are all factory numbers. Uh, you've got the borne on date. We talk about all the time"
TPC numbers are codes that tell you if a tire is made for a specific car. They help make sure the tires fit and work well with that car.
TPC numbers, or Tire Performance Criteria numbers, are factory designations that indicate the specifications and performance standards of tires designed for specific vehicles. These numbers ensure that the tires meet the requirements set by the vehicle manufacturer for optimal performance and safety.
Stellantis
"Right. You do have uh tires that are oe fit for say a 4gm or a stilantis vehicle"
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of cars, like Jeep and Dodge. They make a lot of different types of vehicles.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It produces a variety of vehicles under several well-known brands, including Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Peugeot, and Citroën.
recall
"Time now for some of the cars that have been recalled. God"
A recall happens when a car company asks owners to bring their cars back because there is a safety problem that needs to be fixed.
A recall is a request to return a vehicle to the manufacturer due to safety issues or defects. It is often issued when a vehicle poses a risk to the owner or others on the road.
fire risk
"BMWs issued a major recall affecting nearly 200 000 vehicles in the u.s. Due to a significant fire risk"
Fire risk means that there is a chance a car could catch fire, which can happen because of problems with the car's parts or systems.
Fire risk in vehicles refers to the potential for a car to catch fire due to defects or malfunctions. This can be caused by electrical issues, fuel leaks, or other mechanical failures.
BMW Z4
"Here are the vehicles z4 2019 to 22 models now"
The BMW Z4 is a sporty car that looks great and drives well. The models from 2019 to 2022 have some cool features and a stylish design.
The BMW Z4 is a two-door sports car known for its sharp handling and powerful engine options. The 2019 to 2022 models feature a modern design and advanced technology.
BMW 330
"...re are the vehicles z4 2019 to 22 models now BMW 330 i the x3 the x4 the 530 i the 430 i"
The BMW 3 Series is a small luxury car that people like for its smooth drive and nice features. It's often talked about because it's a great mix of being fun to drive and comfortable.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car known for its blend of performance, luxury, and technology. It has been a benchmark in the segment for decades, often discussed for its driving dynamics and premium features.
Toyota Supra
"...the 430 i And the 230 i also includes the toyota supra vehicles 20 to 22 which are manufactured by BMW ..."
The Toyota Supra is a fast and sporty car that many people love for its cool looks and speed. It's famous for being fun to drive and has a lot of fans who enjoy customizing it.
The Toyota Supra is a legendary sports car known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. It has a rich history, particularly in the tuning and racing communities, and the latest models, produced in collaboration with BMW, have garnered attention for their advanced technology and driving dynamics.
Land Rover Ranger
"increasing the risk of fire Land Rover ranger over evoked 2023 rearview camera doesn't display ..."
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can go off-road but also feels like a luxury car inside. People talk about it because it looks great and has lots of cool features, but some have had problems with it breaking down.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV that combines off-road capability with high-end features and comfort. It is often discussed for its iconic design and advanced technology, but it has faced criticism for reliability issues, particularly in recent models.
Ford Ranger
"increasing the risk of fire Land Rover ranger over evoked 2023 rearview camera doesn't display ..."
Jeep Grand
"...d passenger window trim pieces made detach in the jeep grand wagon here and wagon here Um high pressure fuel ..."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a tough SUV that can handle rough roads and trails, but it also works well for family trips. It's popular because it can do a bit of everything, but some people have found that parts inside can wear out quickly.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities, while also providing a comfortable ride for everyday use. It has been a popular choice for families and adventure seekers alike, but some models have faced issues with interior quality and reliability.
high pressure fuel pump
"high pressure fuel pump may leak and cause a fire"
A high pressure fuel pump helps send fuel to the engine. If it starts leaking, it can be dangerous and might cause a fire.
A high pressure fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the tank to the engine at the required pressure. If it leaks, it can pose a serious fire risk.
Ford F-250
"...Ford f250 250 sd 350 350 sd 450 sd and the list goes on and on 2020 to 2021..."
The Ford F-250 is a strong pickup truck that can carry heavy loads and is often used for work purposes.
The Ford F-250 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing capacity and rugged performance, often used for work and heavy-duty tasks.
Chevrolet Camaro
"... to start with the first car up a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Well now this is a resto mod clearly"
The Camaro is a classic American sports car known for being fast and stylish. The 1969 version is especially popular among collectors because it's a cool-looking car that many people love to restore.
The Chevrolet Camaro is an American muscle car that has been a symbol of performance and style since its introduction in the 1960s. The 1969 model, in particular, is highly sought after by collectors for its classic design and powerful engine options, making it a frequent topic of discussion in automotive circles.
restomod
"[555.7s] Well now this is a resto mod clearly [559.9s] That is not a factory paint job"
A restomod is a classic car that has been fixed up and updated with newer parts to make it better to drive while still looking like the original. It's a mix of old and new.
A restomod is a vehicle that has been restored and modified to improve performance and aesthetics while retaining its classic appeal. This often includes modern upgrades to the engine, suspension, and interior.
Pontiac Catalina
"...'t know. Uh, sold car price for the 1967 Pontiac catalina our next car up. It's a convertible. It's huge I..."
The Pontiac Catalina is a big car that was made to be comfortable and spacious for families. The 1967 version is especially liked by collectors because of its classic look.
The Pontiac Catalina was a full-size car produced by Pontiac from the 1950s to the 1980s, known for its spaciousness and comfort. The 1967 model is particularly noted for its classic design and is often sought after by collectors.
Ford Mustang
"...pool of money to buy this next car up a 1982 ford mustang 82 82 now, is that a fox body 82?"
The Ford Mustang is a famous sports car that many people recognize for its cool look and speed. The 1982 version is part of a special group of Mustangs that fans really like because of its unique style.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that has been in production since the 1960s, known for its performance and distinctive design. The 1982 model, part of the Fox Body generation, is often discussed for its unique styling and the resurgence of interest in classic Mustangs.
Fox Body
"82 now, is that a fox body 82?... Believe it is."
Fox Body is a nickname for a certain style of Ford Mustang made between 1979 and 1993. These cars are popular because they are lightweight and can be made to go really fast.
The term 'Fox Body' refers to a specific generation of the Ford Mustang produced from 1979 to 1993. It is known for its distinct styling and performance capabilities, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Shelby Cobra
"... 82 ford mustang black It looks like it may be a cobra or something don't expect big horsepower out of i..."
The Shelby Cobra is a super-fast sports car that many people admire for its speed and cool design. It's famous for being lightweight and having a powerful engine, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Shelby Cobra is a high-performance sports car that became an icon of American automotive history, known for its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine. It is often discussed for its racing pedigree and the influence it had on the sports car market.
Studebaker Lark
"Uh, this one here, uh, this is for you mike mars in 19 It's a fifth a green 59 studebaker lark puts a gold one now"
The Studebaker Lark is a car made by the Studebaker company in 1959. It was a smaller car that looked different from many others at the time and was popular for its design.
The Studebaker Lark was a compact car produced by Studebaker from 1959 to 1966. It was known for its unique styling and was aimed at the growing market for smaller cars during that era.
drag racing
"I could see me going up and down the drag in that man. You talk about some attention"
Drag racing is a fun type of racing where two cars go as fast as they can down a straight track. The goal is to see who can reach the finish line first.
Drag racing is a type of motor racing where two vehicles compete to see which can cover a straight distance in the shortest time, typically a quarter mile. It's known for its high speeds and quick acceleration.
Pontiac Ventura
"next up Pontiac Ventura now if i'm not mistaken this was a Make believe Pontiac that was actually a chevy nova and they tried to turn him into gto's too"
The Pontiac Ventura is a small car made by Pontiac that was similar to another car called the Chevrolet Nova. The 1973 version had some design changes to make it look sportier, like the GTO.
The Pontiac Ventura was a compact car produced by Pontiac, essentially a rebadged Chevrolet Nova. The 1973 model is notable for its styling changes and attempts to emulate the performance of the GTO.
Pontiac Gtos
"Pontiac ventura now if i'm not mistaken this was a Make believe Pontiac that was actually a chevy nova and they tried to turn him into gto's too Yeah, they changed the little nose piece. It looks like yeah, it's about it. So 73 Pontiac Ventura"
The Pontiac GTO is a classic muscle car that was really popular in the 1960s because it was fast and powerful. It's often talked about because it helped start the trend of making cars that were fun to drive.
The Pontiac GTO is considered one of the original muscle cars, known for its powerful engine and sporty performance. It played a significant role in the automotive industry during the 1960s and is often discussed for its impact on car culture and the muscle car movement.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"You own a car you love why not let gulf coast auto shield protected..."
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a business that helps protect and improve the look of your car. They offer services like special coatings and films to keep your car's paint safe.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a company that specializes in automotive protection services, including paint protection films and ceramic coatings. They focus on maintaining and enhancing the appearance of vehicles.
ceramic coating
"...whether you're looking to massage your original paint to a like new appearance... Apply a ceramic coating..."
Ceramic coating is a special liquid that is put on a car's surface to protect it and make it shine. It helps keep dirt and water from sticking to the paint.
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle, providing a protective layer that enhances shine and protects against environmental contaminants. It is known for its durability and hydrophobic properties.
paint protection film
"...Apply a ceramic coating install a paint protection film..."
Paint protection film is a clear layer that is put on a car's paint to keep it safe from scratches and damage. It helps the car look good for longer.
Paint protection film is a clear, durable material applied to the exterior of a vehicle to protect the paint from scratches, chips, and other damage. It helps maintain the car's appearance over time.
nano ceramic window tint
"...install a paint protection film Nano ceramic window tent or new windshield protection called exo shield..."
Nano ceramic window tint is a special film that is put on car windows to block heat and harmful rays from the sun. It helps keep the inside of the car cooler and protects it from fading.
Nano ceramic window tint is a type of window film that uses advanced ceramic technology to provide heat rejection and UV protection without interfering with visibility. It enhances comfort inside the vehicle while protecting interiors from fading.
Exo Shield
"...new windshield protection called exo shield..."
Exo Shield is a special film that is applied to a car's windshield to help protect it from damage like chips and cracks. It makes the windshield last longer and stay clear.
Exo Shield is a type of windshield protection film designed to enhance the durability of the glass and protect it from chips and cracks. It helps maintain visibility and safety while driving.
NASCAR
"...the nascar craftsman truck is uh, yes, they ran yesterday charlotte. They ran the roval..."
NASCAR is a type of car racing in the U.S. where specially built cars race on circular tracks. It's very popular and has many fans who follow the races closely.
NASCAR stands for the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, which is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing events. The races are held on oval tracks and feature a series of championships, including the Cup Series and Xfinity Series.
Xfinity Series
"...the xfinity boys weren't you with that at the dinner with me?"
The Xfinity Series is a level of car racing that comes before the main NASCAR races. It's where many drivers start their careers before moving up to the bigger races.
The Xfinity Series is a second-tier stock car racing series sanctioned by NASCAR. It serves as a developmental series for drivers aspiring to compete in the top-tier NASCAR Cup Series.
Cup Series
"...and then you got the cup guys coming on tomorrow same thing charlotte roval..."
The Cup Series is the top level of NASCAR racing, where the best drivers compete in the fastest cars. It's the most prestigious series in stock car racing.
The Cup Series is the highest level of professional stock car racing in the United States, organized by NASCAR. It features the most skilled drivers and the most advanced cars in the sport.
Sweepstakes
"He built a car by hand and called it the sweepstakes."
The Sweepstakes is a car that Henry Ford built in 1901. It's important because it was one of his first cars and he made it by hand before he started making cars for everyone.
The Sweepstakes was an early automobile built by Henry Ford in 1901. It is notable for being one of Ford's first racing cars, which he constructed by hand before establishing mass production.
Ford Model T
"Then in 1908 The Model T was introduced now. This is the one that really b..."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that regular people could actually afford to buy. It changed how cars were made and helped many families own a car for the first time.
The Ford Model T, introduced in 1908, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing with its assembly line production. Its significance lies in making car ownership accessible to the average American, forever changing the automotive landscape.
Ford Thunderbird
"...with air cooling now in 1955 Ford introduces the thunderbird now. This is what they considered a personal luxu..."
The Ford Thunderbird is a stylish car that was made to be a luxury vehicle for people who wanted something nice to drive. It became popular in the 1950s for its good looks and comfort.
The Ford Thunderbird, introduced in 1955, is a classic American car that was marketed as a personal luxury vehicle. It is known for its stylish design and comfortable features, making it a symbol of 1950s automotive culture.
Plymouth Voyager
"1997 The last plymouth voyager was built in the us and it rolled off the assembl..."
The Plymouth Voyager is a family-friendly minivan that was made to be spacious and practical for parents and kids. It helped start the trend of making minivans popular for families.
The Plymouth Voyager was one of the first minivans, introduced in the late 1980s, and became a popular choice for families due to its spacious interior and practicality. Its significance lies in shaping the minivan segment and providing a versatile option for family transportation.
Chrysler Voyager
"1997 The last plymouth voyager was built in the us and it rolled off the assembl..."
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.