Park It Outside And Pray: Subaru’s Fiery Oops?
About this episode
The podcast dives into Subaru's recent recall of the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid and 2025 Forester Hybrid due to a fuel tank fire risk, advising owners to park outside until a fix arrives. They also discuss Ford's massive recall of 4.3 million trucks and SUVs over trailer brake and lighting issues, plus other notable recalls from Nissan, Cadillac, and Lexus. The hosts then shift gears to a lively Hemmings.com car sales roundup, guessing prices on classic vehicles like Corvettes, a Ford Bronco, a Triumph TR4A, and a Packard Patrician, sharing insights and surprises about collector car values.
A fuel tank you shouldn’t fill. Trailer brakes that might not listen when you need them most. We start with straight talk on the week’s biggest recalls—Subaru’s hybrid fire risk and Ford’s 4.3 million-vehicle safety sweep—so you know exactly what to check, how to park, and when to expect a real fix. We cut through the noise around “over-the-air updates,” explain why module communication matters for lights and braking, and outline smart steps to protect your family and your tow.
From there, we take you inside the market’s mood with our “guess what it sold for” tour through Hemmings. A C3 Corvette punching to $42K, a C4 convertible slipping under $14K, a clean 442 stretching into the mid-twenties, and a ’68 Bronco commanding $52.5K reveal what buyers are rewarding right now: originality, presentation, and lifestyle appeal. We also spotlight a sleeper value—a straight ’85 GMC 2500 with dog-dish charm—and a ’73 BMW 3.0 CS that proves design never goes out of style. If you’re hunting a classic, we share the questions and documents that separate a good story from a good buy.
We keep the engine warm with a quick spin through the racing slate—NASCAR at COTA, IndyCar in St. Petersburg, NHRA’s Gatornationals on deck, and F1 launching in Australia—plus a lively lap through auto history, from Rudolf Diesel’s patent to the Watson Roadster and Danica Patrick’s breakthrough. Then we zoom out to the business lane: EV losses squeezing profit sharing at Stellantis, the optics of rising CEO compensation, and why dealership tax schemes land in court. It’s a full-spectrum look at safety, value, and culture for people who live cars, drive daily, or just love a good story on wheels.
Hit play, subscribe, and share with a friend who’s eyeing a classic or towing this weekend. Drop us a review with your pick: Bronco, 3.0 CS, or 442—what’s the smartest buy right now?
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recall
"Let's do the recall, shall we? Let's do that."
A recall means the car maker asks you to bring your car in to fix a problem that could be dangerous.
A recall is an official request by a manufacturer to return a vehicle or part for repair due to safety or compliance issues.
Subaru Crosstrek
"According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid have a fault with their fuel tanks that could cause a fire."
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a small SUV that uses both gas and electricity to help save fuel and pollute less.
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid version of Subaru's popular compact crossover SUV, combining a gasoline engine with electric motors for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Subaru Forester Hybrid
"According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid have a fault with their fuel tanks that could cause a fire."
The Subaru Forester Hybrid is a small SUV that uses both gas and electricity to save fuel and help the environment.
The Subaru Forester Hybrid is a hybrid version of Subaru's compact SUV, combining gasoline and electric power for better fuel economy and reduced emissions.
software error
"4.3 million because the software error may cause trailer brakes not to function in exterior lights to fail."
Sometimes the computer inside a car has a mistake that can make parts not work right, like the brakes or lights.
A software error in vehicles refers to a bug or flaw in the vehicle's computer system that can affect its operation or safety features.
trailer brakes
"software error may cause trailer brakes not to function in exterior lights to fail."
Trailer brakes help stop the extra car or trailer you are pulling behind your truck or SUV.
Trailer brakes are braking systems installed on trailers that help slow down or stop the trailer when towing, improving safety.
exterior lights
"trailer brakes not to function in exterior lights to fail. You've seen it driving down the road at night and there's a car that doesn't have any lights on whatsoever."
These are the lights on the outside of a car that help you see and be seen, like headlights and brake lights.
Exterior lights on vehicles include headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals that ensure visibility and safety while driving.
Ford F150
"I don't know what's wrong. The U.S. automaker said the recall covers 2021 through 2026 Ford F-150, 2022 to 26250's Super Duty, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, along with some Ranger and E-Transit"
The Ford F-150 is a very popular big truck that many people use for work and daily driving. It's known for being tough and reliable, but sometimes it needs fixes called recalls to keep it safe.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck and one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States. It is significant for its versatility, durability, and strong sales history, often discussed in the context of recalls or updates due to its widespread use.
Ford Expedition
"..., 2022 to 26250's Super Duty, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, along with some Ranger and E-Transit ..."
The Ford Expedition is a big SUV that can carry lots of people and things, good for families or trips.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV designed for large families and towing heavy loads. It is noted for its spacious interior and strong engine options, often mentioned in the context of recalls or updates.
Ford Maverick
"...250's Super Duty, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, along with some Ranger and E-Transit vehicles."
The Ford Maverick is a smaller truck that's easy to drive and good on gas. It's great for people who want a truck but don't need something very big or expensive.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck introduced as a more affordable and fuel-efficient alternative in Ford's truck lineup. It has gained attention for blending car-like handling with truck utility, making it popular in urban and suburban markets.
Ford Ranger
"... Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, along with some Ranger and E-Transit vehicles."
The Ford Ranger is a medium-sized truck that's easier to park and drive than big trucks but still strong enough to carry stuff or tow things.
The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck known for its balance of capability and maneuverability. It appeals to buyers needing a smaller truck than the F-150 but still capable for work and recreation.
Ford Etransit
"The U.S. automaker said the recall covers 2021 through 2026 Ford F-150, 2022 to 26250's Super Duty, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, along with some Ranger and E-Transit vehicles."
The Ford E-Transit is a big electric van used by businesses to carry stuff without using gas.
The Ford E-Transit is an all-electric version of Ford’s popular Transit van, aimed at commercial customers looking for zero-emission vehicles. It is part of Ford’s strategy to electrify its commercial vehicle lineup.
Lincoln Navigator
"Super Duty, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, Maverick, along with some Ranger and E-Transit vehicles."
The Lincoln Navigator is a big fancy SUV made by Lincoln. It has some of the same parts as Ford trucks and is part of the recall.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV produced by Lincoln, Ford's luxury division. It shares many components with Ford trucks and SUVs, and is included in the recall.
Nissan Rogue
"...ther recalls include engine failure in the Nissan Rogue, 23 to 25. Yikes."
The Nissan Rogue is a small SUV that’s good for everyday driving and saving gas, but some newer ones have had engine problems.
The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV popular for its practicality and fuel efficiency. It has been subject to recalls related to engine failures in recent model years.
Cadillac Lyric
"...c throttle body. Rear view camera fail, Cadillac Lyric, 2024. No."
The Lyriq is a new electric Cadillac SUV that’s fancy and high-tech but has had some small problems to fix.
The Cadillac Lyriq is Cadillac’s first all-electric SUV, featuring advanced technology and luxury amenities. It has been noted for some early issues like throttle body and rear view camera failures.
Chevrolet Silverado
"No. Shelby Silverado, 1500, 2500, 3500. GMC Sierra, 1525, 3500."
The Silverado is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and pull trailers, making it useful for work or big jobs.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck competing directly with the Ford F-150, known for its strong towing and hauling capabilities. It is often mentioned in discussions about heavy-duty trucks and their variants.
Gmc Sierra
"Shelby Silverado, 1500, 2500, 3500. GMC Sierra, 1525, 3500. 2020 to 2022."
The GMC Sierra EV is a big electric truck that doesn’t use gas and can still do heavy jobs like regular trucks.
The GMC Sierra EV is an electric version of the popular full-size GMC Sierra pickup truck, representing the brand’s move towards electrification. It combines traditional truck capability with electric powertrain benefits.
Cadillac Escalade
"...ransmission control valve failure in the Cadillac Escalade. Uh-oh."
The Escalade is a fancy, big SUV that many people use to travel in comfort and style, but it can have some expensive repairs.
The Cadillac Escalade is a luxury full-size SUV known for its bold design and high-end features. It is often discussed for its premium status and occasional mechanical issues like transmission control valve failures.
Alfa Romeo
"That's exactly right. That's the Alfa Romeo. Alfa Romeo. Alfa Romeo, toenail. So you're hitting Alfa Romeo."
Alfa Romeo is a car company from Italy that makes cars known for being fun to drive and looking cool.
Alfa Romeo is an Italian automotive manufacturer known for producing sporty and stylish vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and design.
Chevrolet Corvette
"vehicles. 81 Corvette. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer m..."
The Corvette is a fast and stylish car made in America that people love because it looks cool and drives really well.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a legendary American sports car known for its high performance and distinctive design. It is often discussed for its role in automotive history and innovations in sports car engineering.
LS engine swap
"So my guess is this has got a complete restoration or it's got an LS engine swap. Something is special with it."
An LS engine swap means putting a different, more powerful engine called an LS V8 into a car to make it faster and stronger.
An LS engine swap refers to replacing a car's original engine with a General Motors LS-series V8 engine, known for its power, reliability, and aftermarket support.
Oldsmobile 442
"Anyway, uh, next up is the 1987 Oldsmobile 442. Yeah. Wow."
The Oldsmobile 442 is an old American car famous for being fast and sporty. The 1987 version is one of the last ones made and has a cool look.
The Oldsmobile 442 is a classic American muscle car produced by Oldsmobile, with the 1987 model being part of its later years. It is known for its performance-oriented features and distinctive styling.
Ford Bronco
""Oh, uh, this is a 1968 Ford Bronco. Whoever took the picture, they took it in the shade and that's not how you take a picture of a car 1968 Ford Bronco.""
The 1968 Ford Bronco is a classic SUV made by Ford. It's known for being tough and good for off-road driving, and people really like it even today.
The 1968 Ford Bronco is an early model of Ford's iconic off-road SUV, known for its rugged design and popularity among enthusiasts. It was produced during the first generation of Broncos from 1966 to 1977.
GMC C/K 2500
""1985 GMC three quarter ton. 2500. $7,000. Really? Yeah.""
The 1985 GMC 2500 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is good for work like towing or hauling things.
The 1985 GMC 2500 is a three-quarter ton pickup truck known for its durability and utility, commonly used for heavy-duty tasks and towing.
Hemmings
"that this showed up as, uh, in this, it's for sale on himmings."
Hemmings is a website where people can buy and sell old and classic cars and trucks.
Hemmings is a popular online marketplace and magazine specializing in classic cars, vintage trucks, and collector vehicles for sale.
running boards
"Except for those ugly running boards. Those need to go away."
Running boards are like small steps on the side of a big truck that help you climb inside.
Running boards are narrow steps attached along the sides of trucks or SUVs below the doors to help passengers step into the vehicle more easily, especially on taller vehicles.
Bmw 30
"Let's go back to the other side of the drink. 1973 BMW 3.0 CS. Yes."
The 3.0 CSL is an old, special BMW car that was made to be very fast and light, and many people love it today.
The 1973 BMW 3.0 CSL is a classic sports coupe celebrated for its lightweight construction and racing heritage. It is highly prized among collectors and automotive enthusiasts.
Bmw 3
"I mean, that's, give it to me again. It's a 73 BMW 3 series, 3.0 CS. Yeah."
The BMW 3 Series is a nice, comfortable car that’s fun to drive and has fancy features inside.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car celebrated for its sporty handling and luxury features. It has been a benchmark in the segment for decades, often referenced in discussions about driving dynamics and premium cars.
Packard Patrician
"A Packard patrician. Lord of mercy. Is it really a patrician? That's what they said. A 56 Packard patrician."
The Packard Patrician is an old fancy car made by a company called Packard. The 1956 version is special because it was one of the last ones made before the company stopped making cars.
The Packard Patrician was a luxury automobile produced by the Packard Motor Car Company, with the 1956 model being one of the last before the brand ceased production. It was known for its upscale features and classic American luxury styling.
coupe
""It's a big honking two door." "Coupe." "39 foot coupe.""
A coupe is a type of car that usually has two doors and a roof that doesn't open. It's often made to look sportier than regular cars.
A coupe is a car body style typically characterized by two doors and a fixed roof, often designed to be sportier or more stylish than sedans.
cruise in
"The tailpipes and tacos renowned cruise in expands to Beaumont. Golden triangle cruisers will want to experience tailpipes and tacos at the loopy tortilla. Every cruise in vehicle is automatically entered to win one of the beautiful chili pepper trophies for best hot rod. Classic and modern classic."
A cruise in is like a car party where people bring their cool cars to show and hang out. You can see old and new cars, eat food, and sometimes win prizes for the best cars.
A cruise in is a social event where car enthusiasts gather to show off their vehicles, often including classic, vintage, and modern cars. These events typically feature informal car displays, food, and sometimes competitions or trophies for categories like best hot rod.
hot rod
"Every cruise in vehicle is automatically entered to win one of the beautiful chili pepper trophies for best hot rod. Classic and modern classic."
A hot rod is an old car that people make faster and cooler by changing its engine and looks. They are popular at car shows and people like to show them off.
A hot rod is a classic car, typically American, that has been modified for increased performance and a distinctive appearance. Hot rods often have powerful engines and custom styling, and are popular in car culture and at car shows.
Circuit of the Americas
"And is it Kota circuit of the America? And that's outside of Austin, Texas."
Circuit of the Americas is a big race track near Austin, Texas, where many car races happen.
Circuit of the Americas is a well-known motorsport race track located near Austin, Texas, hosting various racing events including Formula 1 and NASCAR.
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
"So we got craftsman truck going on today at noon on Fox, then at 3pm."
This is a type of NASCAR race where drivers race special racing trucks instead of cars.
The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series is a NASCAR racing series featuring modified pickup trucks competing on various tracks.
NHRA
"Then you got NHRA coming up very soon, couple of weeks. Gainesville for the Gator Nationals."
NHRA is the group that runs drag racing events where cars race in a straight line as fast as possible.
The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) is the governing body for drag racing in the United States, organizing events like the Gator Nationals.
Australian Grand Prix
"And that's going to be in Australia. It's the Australian Grand Prix."
The Australian Grand Prix is a big car race in Australia where Formula One cars compete, usually starting the racing season.
The Australian Grand Prix is a Formula One race held annually in Australia, often serving as the season opener for the F1 calendar.
diesel
"I mean, the diesel shows up everywhere, even in cars for high fuel. And even in Neaterville."
Diesel is a kind of fuel used in some engines that helps vehicles like big trucks and ships run well and use less fuel.
Diesel is a type of fuel and engine technology known for its efficiency and torque, commonly used in commercial trucks, ships, agriculture, and some cars.
Oldsmobile Curved Dash
"... Then in 1901, the Osmobile started producing the curved dash runabout. Now, this is important because it was ..."
The Oldsmobile Curved Dash was one of the very first cars made a long time ago, helping start how cars are made today.
The Oldsmobile Curved Dash, produced starting in 1901, was one of the first mass-produced automobiles and is significant for pioneering assembly line production techniques. It holds an important place in automotive history.
electric traffic signal
"First electric traffic signal was put in Houston. Now, they did have traffic signals, but they were manually manned,"
Electric traffic signals are lights that tell cars when to stop and go at intersections, making driving safer and smoother than having people manually control the traffic.
An electric traffic signal is a device that uses colored lights to control vehicle and pedestrian traffic at intersections, improving safety and traffic flow compared to manually operated signals.
Lucid Gravity
"...ayout, lightweight tubular chassis, low center of gravity, gravity, and it had the oftenhouser four cylinde..."
The Lucid Gravity is a new fancy electric SUV that’s designed to drive smoothly and safely with special parts inside.
The Lucid Gravity is an upcoming luxury electric SUV from Lucid Motors, noted for its advanced chassis design and low center of gravity to enhance driving dynamics. It represents Lucid's expansion beyond sedans into the SUV market.
front engine layout
"Now this was a front engine layout, lightweight tubular chassis, low center of gravity, gravity, and it had the oftenhouser four cylinder engine that was so well run and well known from the Indy 500."
A front engine layout means the car's engine is in the front part of the car, in front of the driver. This was how many old race cars were built.
A front engine layout means the car's engine is located at the front of the vehicle, ahead of the driver. This was common in early race cars before mid-engine designs became popular.
Offenhauser four cylinder engine
"Now this was a front engine layout, lightweight tubular chassis, low center of gravity, gravity, and it had the oftenhouser four cylinder engine that was so well run and well known from the Indy 500."
The Offenhauser engine was a special type of car engine with four cylinders that was very good at racing and won many races at the Indy 500.
The Offenhauser four cylinder engine, often called the 'Offy,' was a famous racing engine known for its reliability and power in IndyCar racing during the mid-20th century. It dominated the Indianapolis 500 for decades.
Indy 500
""...that was her first Indy 500 open wheel race that she ran and then she came over and of course went on to run some more in the United States.""
The Indy 500 is a big car race in the US where drivers race 500 miles on a big oval track. It's very famous and important in racing.
The Indy 500, or Indianapolis 500, is a famous annual 500-mile open wheel race held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It is one of the most prestigious events in American motorsport.
annual bonuses
"The first time they'll miss out on the annual bonuses since 2011 after tariffs and lower sales pushed the automakers North American operation into the red because they don't have any cars to sell anymore."
Annual bonuses are extra money workers get once a year if the company does well.
Annual bonuses are extra payments given to employees once a year, often based on company performance or individual achievements.
Detroit Three
"The average payout for UAW workers at the Detroit three is about $6,200 this year, nearly 40% less than the 2025 average of almost $10,000. Ford get about 6780 from profit sharing in March down from $10,200 while GM employees can expect as much as $10,500 extra in their February 27th paychecks, a 28% decline."
Detroit Three means the three big car companies from Detroit: Ford, GM, and Stellantis.
The Detroit Three refers to the three major American automakers: Ford, General Motors (GM), and Stellantis (formerly FCA).
Dodge Challenger
"...highest selling cars that Stalanta's offered, the Challenger and the Charger. We're not going to make that an..."
The Dodge Challenger is a strong and fast car that looks like the old muscle cars from the past, making it fun to drive.
The Dodge Challenger is a muscle car known for its retro styling and powerful engine options. It is popular among enthusiasts for its performance and nostalgic appeal.
Dodge Charger
"...s that Stalanta's offered, the Challenger and the Charger. We're not going to make that anymore. Okay, fin..."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that’s fast and looks sporty, kind of like a muscle car you can use every day.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan with muscle car roots, offering powerful engines and aggressive styling. It is often discussed alongside the Challenger as part of Dodge’s performance lineup.
horsepower
"We're not going to make that anymore. Okay, fine. We'll go find somewhere else that makes horsepower."
Horsepower tells you how strong a car's engine is. More horsepower means the car can go faster or pull heavier loads.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that quantifies the power output of an engine. It helps indicate how strong or fast a car's engine is.
motor vehicle sales tax
"Anyway, a Minnesota dealership group and its used car dealership and an unlicensed broker face felony charges of engineering a long running scheme to cheat the state out of more than $350,000 in motor vehicle sales tax."
When you buy a car, the state charges a tax based on how much the car costs. This tax helps pay for roads and other things, and the dealer usually collects it for the state.
Motor vehicle sales tax is a state-imposed tax on the sale of vehicles, typically calculated as a percentage of the sale price. It is collected by dealerships or brokers during vehicle sales and paid to the state government.
Walser Automotive Group
"The complaints filed by the Hennepin County Attorney's Office against Walser Automotive Group in Bloomington, its Walser pre-owned sales subsidiary, and William Ward."
Walser Automotive Group is a big company that owns many car dealerships where people buy new and used cars.
Walser Automotive Group is a large dealership group based in Minnesota, operating multiple dealerships including used car sales. It ranks among the top dealership groups in the U.S.
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