One of the best full-sized SUVs and a Waxoyl giveaway
About this episode
John Paul dives into a detailed review of the GMC Yukon Denali SC, highlighting its bold, premium design and powerful 6.2L V8 engine paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. He praises the luxury interior, intuitive infotainment with wireless Apple CarPlay, and advanced semi-autonomous features like adaptive cruise control and Super Cruise. The episode also covers towing capabilities, surround-view cameras, and the absence of trailer backing assist. John shares his thoughts on self-driving tech levels and the driving experience of this large SUV, balancing comfort, control, and modern convenience.
In this episode we review the 2026 GMC Yukon, a very nice, luxurious and capable SUV. We also give away a DIY Waxoyl rust proofing kit. And of course we talk with our radio family.
GMC Yukon
"...it is not just any GMC, I mean, not Tahoe, a GMC Yukon, my mistake. And it is not just any one."
The GMC Yukon is a big SUV that can carry lots of people and stuff. It's stronger and fancier than some other big SUVs, making it good for families or towing trailers.
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and towing capability. It is often compared to the Chevrolet Tahoe but is positioned as a more upscale and premium vehicle within the GM lineup.
Super Cruise
"With Super Cruise, you can keep your hands off the wheel for a while. I mean, I'm not really comfortable with that."
Super Cruise is a technology that helps you drive without holding the steering wheel on certain highways. It watches you to make sure you're paying attention while it helps steer and control the car.
Super Cruise is an advanced driver assistance system developed by General Motors that allows hands-free driving on compatible highways by using cameras and sensors to monitor the driver and surroundings.
Tesla Full Self-Driving mode
"a lot of people think the Tesla full self-driving mode is better."
Tesla's Full Self-Driving mode is a feature that helps the car drive itself in many situations, but you still need to watch the road and be ready to take control.
Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) mode is an advanced driver assistance feature that aims to provide autonomous driving capabilities, including navigation, lane changes, and traffic light recognition, but still requires driver attention.
levels of automation
"When it comes down to fully self-driving cars, there's all these levels of automation. And you could almost call level one power steering or cruise control. And level two is it starts to do a little bit more."
Levels of automation tell you how much a car can drive itself, from no help at all to completely driving on its own.
Levels of automation refer to the classification system defined by SAE International that describes the extent of vehicle automation, ranging from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full automation).
level three automation
""Level three, I think, is the stupidest one, which is the car will drive itself until it can't, and you have to jump in, which means you have to be paying attention all the time.""
Level three means the car can drive by itself sometimes, but you still need to watch and be ready to take over if needed.
Level three automation refers to a stage of autonomous driving where the car can drive itself under certain conditions but requires the driver to be ready to take control at any time.
level four automation
""And then there's level four, which means it will drive itself under all conditions, but only on certain roadways. Roadways that have been mapped out and however they do that.""
Level four means the car can drive by itself in certain places without you needing to help.
Level four automation means the vehicle can drive itself under all conditions but only within specific areas or roadways that have been mapped and prepared for autonomous driving.
level five automation
""And then finally, level five automation, which means the car doesn't even have a steering wheel at that point. Although when they were doing some testing on some of the self-driving cars, they made them put steering wheels back in. But that was the whole point. It was like level five, you don't do anything. It's like a robotic taxi from the future. You get in it, you tell it what to do when it gets to where it's supposed to go.""
Level five means the car drives itself all the time and you don't need to do anything, not even steer.
Level five automation is full self-driving capability where the vehicle requires no human intervention at all and may not even have traditional controls like a steering wheel.
Mazda MX-5 / Miata
"...ng big like the Yukon or something sporty like a Miata. There's times you just want to enjoy driving th..."
The Mazda Miata is a small, fun car made for people who like to drive just for enjoyment. It has two seats and is easy to handle, making it great for going around corners and feeling the road.
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is a lightweight, two-seat roadster famous for its engaging driving dynamics and affordability. It's often celebrated as one of the best affordable sports cars, ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving on twisty roads.
Chevrolet Suburban
"looking at the GMC version of the Suburban and the Chevrolet version of the Suburban,"
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that can fit many people and things. It is very similar to the GMC Suburban.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a large SUV that shares its platform and many parts with the GMC Suburban, offering spacious seating and cargo capacity.
Land Rover Range Rover
"without the stigma that can be attached to, you know, driving a Range Rover or BMW or something"
The Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can drive on rough roads and is very comfortable inside.
The Range Rover is a luxury SUV from Land Rover, known for its off-road capability combined with high-end luxury features.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
"and maybe the Grand Wagoneer isn't what you're looking for."
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a big SUV that looks tough but is also very fancy inside.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a full-size luxury SUV that combines rugged Jeep styling with upscale features and comfort.
wax oil
"During today's program, we're also going to be giving away a DIY kit of wax oil. So get ready for that wax oil. You remember, we were talking to people from wax oil a couple of weeks ago and he offered up, hey, I will give away a DIY kit, which as I recall is two cans of undercoat spray and two cans of the crevice spray."
Wax oil is a special spray that helps stop your car from getting rusty by covering it with a protective layer.
Wax oil is a protective coating product used on vehicles to prevent rust and corrosion by sealing surfaces with a wax-based oil.
DIY kit
"During today's program, we're also going to be giving away a DIY kit of wax oil. So get ready for that wax oil. You remember, we were talking to people from wax oil a couple of weeks ago and he offered up, hey, I will give away a DIY kit,"
A DIY kit is a package that lets you do a job yourself, like protecting your car with special sprays.
A DIY kit refers to a set of products and tools provided for consumers to perform a task themselves, such as applying protective coatings or maintenance.
crevice spray
"which as I recall is two cans of undercoat spray and two cans of the crevice spray."
Crevice spray is a spray you use to get into small cracks and spaces in your car to keep them from getting rusty.
Crevice spray is a protective product designed to be applied into small gaps and tight spaces on a vehicle to prevent rust and corrosion.
undercoat spray
"which as I recall is two cans of undercoat spray and two cans of the crevice spray."
Undercoat spray is a special spray you put under your car to stop it from getting rusty or hurt by rocks and water.
Undercoat spray is a protective coating applied to the underside of a vehicle to prevent rust and damage from road debris and moisture.
Ford Edge
"... recalling 2021 to 2026 Broncos and 2021 to 2024 Edge vehicles equipped with the mid-high sync for ent..."
The Ford Edge is a medium-sized SUV that's nice to ride in and has cool tech inside. Some newer models have had recalls, which means the company asks owners to fix certain problems for free.
The Ford Edge is a midsize SUV offering a comfortable ride and modern technology features. Recent recalls affecting 2021 to 2024 models, especially those with mid-high SYNC infotainment systems, highlight the importance of staying updated on software and safety fixes.
Acura ZDX
"...y'll be all fixed. Honda is recalling 2024 Acura ZDXs and 2024 Honda Prolog Vehicles"
The Acura ZDX is a fancy SUV that looks sporty and has nice features inside. Some 2024 models have problems that the company is fixing with a recall.
The Acura ZDX is a luxury crossover SUV with a coupe-like design, blending sporty styling with premium features. The 2024 model is subject to recalls, indicating some manufacturing or safety issues that Acura is addressing.
Toyota Corolla
"...ge. So if you just recently bought a 2026 Toyota Corolla and said, you know, these headlights are terribl..."
The Toyota Corolla is a very popular and dependable small car that many people use every day. The 2026 version might have some problems with its headlights that owners are noticing.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling compact cars worldwide, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 2026 model might be discussed due to new features or reported issues like problematic headlights.
viscosity
"...So valves and everything and moving inside of it works quicker because of the lower viscosity fluid."
Viscosity means how thick or runny a liquid is. Thinner brake fluid flows better and helps your brakes work faster and smoother.
Viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of a fluid. Lower viscosity brake fluid flows more easily, allowing faster response in braking systems like ABS.
brake fluid
"...because of the lower viscosity fluid. You wouldn't think that after all these years a brake fluid would have to come up with a different fluid, but in fact they come up with a different fluid..."
Brake fluid helps your car stop when you press the brake pedal. It moves the force to the brakes on the wheels so your car can slow down or stop safely.
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in brake systems to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brake components at the wheels. Its viscosity and moisture content affect braking performance and safety.
transmission fluid change
"Something like you would do when you did a transmission fluid change, and the transmission holds 10 quarts and you only put four and a half in, or you only change part of it because the rest of it is in the torque converter."
Transmission fluid is a special oil that helps your car's gears work smoothly. Changing it every so often keeps your car shifting nicely.
Transmission fluid lubricates and cools the components inside an automatic transmission. Changing the fluid regularly helps maintain smooth shifting and prolongs transmission life.
torque converter
"or you only change part of it because the rest of it is in the torque converter. But you are changing fluid a little bit at a time."
The torque converter is a part inside automatic cars that helps the engine power get to the wheels smoothly, especially when you stop or start driving.
The torque converter is a fluid coupling device in automatic transmissions that transfers engine power to the transmission and allows the car to come to a stop without stalling.
transmission flush
"I don't like flushing a transmission. I've seen where flushing a transmission on a car that has transmission problems have actually cured the problem, because it flushes out the junk of the valves, and it actually can have some benefit."
A transmission flush is when a mechanic cleans out the old fluid in your car's transmission and puts in new fluid to help it work better.
A transmission flush is a service that removes old transmission fluid and contaminants by flushing the system with new fluid. It can help clean out deposits but may also dislodge varnish that can cause issues.
Subaru Crosstrek
"...ome pretty good ones. Somebody has a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. It does have some lights coming on, but the eng..."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that can drive on rough roads and in bad weather because it has all-wheel drive. Some 2021 models have warning lights that might mean the car needs a checkup.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV praised for its standard all-wheel drive, off-road capability, and safety features. The 2021 model may have some dashboard warning lights that concern owners, which could indicate minor or more serious issues.
fuse box
""the jump start post is in the fuse box area, so that's where the positive one is." , "
A fuse box is where the car’s electrical fuses live to keep things safe. Sometimes the jump-start connection points are near this box.
The fuse box in a vehicle contains fuses that protect electrical circuits. Sometimes jump start posts are integrated into or near the fuse box for convenient access.
scan tool
"with a good scan tool, a professional scan tool, you should be able to select the heat, and then command the blend door to open and close."
A scan tool is a gadget mechanics use to check your car's computer and fix problems by telling parts what to do.
A scan tool is a diagnostic device used by professionals to communicate with the car's computer systems to read fault codes and command components like the blend door.
Mazda Cx5
"uses the same key fob as the one you have. I looked one up for a 2021 CX-5. It was like $100."
The Mazda CX-5 is a small SUV that looks nice and is fun to drive. If you lose your car key remote, it can cost about $100 to get a new one for a 2021 model.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV known for its stylish design, engaging driving experience, and good fuel economy. It's popular among buyers looking for a practical yet fun-to-drive SUV, and key fob replacement costs around $100 for recent models like the 2021.
air filter
"replace the air filter if it's dirty, replace the cabin filter if it's dirty. You know, you don't automatically replace those filters if they're clean. You don't know, maybe you already did it once."
An air filter cleans the air going into your car's engine so it doesn't get dirty or broken. You should change it if it looks dirty.
An air filter cleans the air entering the engine to prevent dirt and debris from causing damage or reducing performance. It should be replaced when dirty to maintain engine efficiency.
cabin filter
"replace the cabin filter if it's dirty. You know, you don't automatically replace those filters if they're clean. You don't know, maybe you already did it once. You know, it's got the 7-year-old vehicle now. So maybe you replace the cabin filter once or twice or more in that time frame."
A cabin filter helps clean the air inside your car so it smells fresh and you don't breathe in dust or pollen.
A cabin filter cleans the air entering the vehicle's interior through the HVAC system, removing dust, pollen, and other pollutants to improve air quality inside the car.
Hyundai
"The one thing I would do, because Hyundai is weird, is I would try to, if you have your independent shop doing this, I would use only a Hyundai oil filter."
Hyundai is a car company from South Korea that makes many types of cars. Sometimes, it's best to use parts made by Hyundai for your Hyundai car to keep it running well.
Hyundai is a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to SUVs. They have specific parts like oil filters that are recommended for optimal performance and reliability.
oil filter
"The one thing I would do, because Hyundai is weird, is I would try to, if you have your independent shop doing this, I would use only a Hyundai oil filter."
An oil filter cleans the oil in your car so the engine stays healthy. Using the right oil filter for your car is important to keep it working well.
An oil filter removes contaminants from engine oil to protect the engine and ensure smooth operation. Using the correct oil filter, especially one recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, helps maintain engine health.
Dodge Polara
"...for the last hour, and I will take my 1967 Dodge Polara 2-door with a 383 with a two-barrel carburetor o..."
Plymouth was a car brand that doesn't make cars anymore but used to make many popular cars a long time ago. People who like old cars might talk about Plymouths because they are special and collectible.
Plymouth was a historic American car brand known for producing affordable and practical vehicles until it was discontinued in 2001. Mentioning a classic Plymouth model often reflects appreciation for vintage muscle cars or collector vehicles.
reliability
"I, you know... Reliability. Yep. You know, just the whole thing."
Reliability means how often a car works well without problems or needing repairs.
Reliability refers to how consistently a vehicle or its components perform without failure or breakdown over time.
safety
"Safety? Safety? Maybe not as much. Well, it boils down to it to be a good driver."
Safety means how well a car keeps people safe if something bad happens while driving.
Safety in cars refers to features and design elements that protect occupants during crashes or prevent accidents.
original plug
"Well, sir, I got a 2011 Mercedes GLK 350, and it has 150,000 miles on the original plug."
Original plug means the spark plugs that came with the car when it was brand new and have never been changed.
The term 'original plug' refers to the spark plugs that were installed in the vehicle when it was new and have not been replaced since.
independent mechanic
"I could go to an independent guy and ask them if they want, you know, if I asked my independent guy, he'd get the Mercedes plugs."
An independent mechanic is a car repair person or shop that is not part of the car brand's official dealers and usually charges less.
An independent mechanic is a non-dealer automotive repair professional or shop that services vehicles, often at lower prices than authorized dealerships.
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.