People Calling Us To Find Out What's Wrong With Their Cars
About this episode
Listeners call in with various automotive issues, leading to insightful discussions about vehicle maintenance and troubleshooting. Topics include the costs of charging a Tesla, the intricacies of electric vehicle fires, and the challenges of diagnosing problems in older vehicles. The hosts share personal anecdotes and practical advice, such as the importance of regular transmission fluid changes for CVTs and the quirks of electric sliding doors in Chrysler Pacificas. The episode is packed with expert tips and real-world experiences that can help listeners better understand their vehicles.
1. What does it cost to charge a Tesla on the road? 2. Dismantling cars at an auto recycler 3. Why does my dash make hissing noise when ac is turned off? 17 Mini Cooper 4. Why does my car start hard when hot? Nissan Xterra 5. Why does my Grand Cherokee Jeep not start sometimes? 6. 16 Jeep communication codes 7. 21 Tacoma can I use an AGM Battery? 8. Looking for a new car to buy 9. 08 Explorer run hot and overheats 10. How to fix a power sliding door 18 Pacifica
supercharging station
"...the last charge session was $26.60 at a supercharging station. And that was a 30 minute session at a 47 kilowatt hour..."
A supercharging station is a special place where electric cars can get charged quickly. It's much faster than regular charging spots, making it easier for long trips.
A supercharging station is a high-speed charging station designed for electric vehicles, particularly those from Tesla. These stations can charge a vehicle much faster than standard charging options, allowing for quicker travel over long distances.
kilowatt hour
"...at a 47 kilowatt hour... 47 cents per kilowatt hour. And it delivered 56.6111 KWH."
A kilowatt hour is a way to measure how much electricity you use. If you use a lot of power for a short time, or a little power for a long time, it all adds up to kilowatt hours.
A kilowatt hour (KWH) is a unit of energy used to measure electricity consumption. It represents the amount of energy consumed by a device that uses one kilowatt of power for one hour.
Honda Civic
"I have it on a motion sensor. It makes that civic look awesome every time it comes out. The FedEx ..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's easy to drive and saves gas. It's a good option for anyone looking for a dependable vehicle that won't break the bank.
The Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It has been a popular choice among drivers for decades, often praised for its comfortable ride and strong resale value.
Ford Focus
"...I don't treat the 14 Ford Focus with the transmission out of it, with $300,000 miles, with dents all over it,..."
The Ford Focus is a small car that many people use for everyday driving. It's known for being easy to handle and not too expensive to maintain.
The Ford Focus is a compact car known for its practicality and efficiency. It has been a popular choice among drivers for its affordability and versatility.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...the same way that I treat a 22 Silverado pickups. It's great."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that people often use for work or towing things. It's known for being tough and able to handle heavy loads.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and capability. It is often used for both work and personal purposes, making it a versatile vehicle.
Nissan Leaf
"...they were inventorying a Nissan Leaf, and they were putting the numbers on it, and it was burned up. The interior was burned out of it..."
The Nissan Leaf is a popular electric car that doesn't use gasoline. Instead, it runs on electricity stored in batteries, making it environmentally friendly.
The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric hatchback that is known for its practicality and efficiency. It has been one of the best-selling electric vehicles worldwide since its introduction.
battery
"...I saw the battery was gone. And this car had been bought and bought..."
The battery is what gives power to electric cars like the Nissan Leaf. Without it, the car can't run.
The battery in electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf stores electrical energy that powers the car's electric motor. It is a crucial component for the vehicle's operation.
EV fire
"...they can put out an EV fire on the battery."
An EV fire is a fire that happens in an electric car. These fires can be difficult to put out because of the special batteries they use.
An EV fire refers to a fire involving an electric vehicle, often related to battery malfunctions. These incidents can be more challenging to extinguish due to the nature of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles.
windshield
"...we look up a windshield. On our interchange system. And you can kind of tell..."
The windshield is the big glass window at the front of a car. It helps you see while driving and keeps you safe from wind and rain.
A windshield is the front window of a vehicle that provides visibility for the driver and passenger while also protecting them from wind, debris, and weather. It is a critical safety component of a car.
interchange system
"...we look up a windshield. On our interchange system. And you can kind of tell, if you don't know the body lines of it..."
An interchange system helps find parts that can work for different cars. It tells you which parts fit which models, making it easier to fix cars without guessing.
An interchange system is a database or tool used in the automotive industry to identify compatible parts across different vehicle models and years. It helps mechanics and body shops find replacement parts that fit specific vehicles based on their design and structure.
make model generations
"...you don't want to go to Wikipedia and look at what's the make model generations of a leaf. You can look up a windshield in our interchange..."
Make is the car brand, like Ford or Toyota. Model is the specific type of car, like the Mustang or Camry. Generation tells you which version of that model it is, usually based on the years it was made.
Make, model, and generation refer to the manufacturer (make), the specific vehicle type (model), and the version of that vehicle produced during a certain time period (generation). This classification helps in identifying the exact specifications and compatibility of parts.
catalytic converter
"...we would have at least gotten, catalytic converters off of it. There would have been probably a few more items of core..."
A catalytic converter helps clean up the gases that come out of a car's exhaust, making them less harmful to the environment.
A catalytic converter is an exhaust emission control device that converts toxic gases and pollutants in exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine into less toxic pollutants. It plays a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions from vehicles.
alternator
"...like in an engine or transmission, a starter, an alternator,"
The alternator is a part that helps keep the car's battery charged and powers the electrical systems while the engine is running.
An alternator is a generator that converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy to power the vehicle's electrical systems and recharge the battery while the engine is running.
starter
"...like in an engine or transmission, a starter, an alternator,"
The starter is a part of the car that helps get the engine running when you turn the key or push the start button.
The starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation by turning it over. It is essential for starting the vehicle and is typically powered by the car's battery.
Mini Cooper Clubman
"...I've got a 2017 Mini Cooper Clubman, 125,000 miles on it,..."
The Mini Cooper Clubman is a small car that has a unique look and more room than a regular Mini. It's fun to drive and is known for its quirky style.
The Mini Cooper Clubman is a compact car known for its unique styling and practicality, offering more space than the standard Mini Cooper. It's popular for its fun driving dynamics and distinctive design.
coolant
"...Do I need new coolant, a radiator, a new flush? I don't know where to begin."
Coolant is a liquid that helps keep your car's engine from getting too hot. It moves heat away from the engine and helps it run smoothly.
Coolant is a fluid used in a vehicle's cooling system to transfer heat away from the engine and prevent overheating. It typically consists of a mixture of water and antifreeze, which helps maintain optimal engine temperatures.
radiator
"...Do I need new coolant, a radiator, a new flush? I don't know where to begin."
A radiator helps cool down the liquid that keeps your car's engine from overheating. It works by letting air flow through it to cool the liquid before it goes back to the engine.
The radiator is a key component of a vehicle's cooling system that dissipates heat from the coolant before it returns to the engine. It uses airflow to cool the coolant, helping to maintain the engine's operating temperature.
expansion valve
"...the sound you're hearing is the gas in the refrigeration system escaping through the expansion valve. As long as your air conditioning's cooling properly, it's a normal sound."
An expansion valve helps control how much coolant goes into the air conditioning system. It makes sure the coolant is at the right temperature to cool the air inside your car.
The expansion valve is a component in an air conditioning system that regulates the flow of refrigerant. It allows the refrigerant to expand and cool before it enters the evaporator, which is crucial for effective cooling.
air conditioning
"...As long as your air conditioning's cooling properly, it's a normal sound. What you can do to test that is just turn off your air conditioner..."
Air conditioning in cars keeps the inside cool and comfortable by removing heat and moisture from the air. It uses a special fluid to help with this process.
Air conditioning in a vehicle is a system that cools and dehumidifies the air inside the cabin. It typically uses refrigerant to absorb heat and humidity from the air, providing a comfortable environment for passengers.
high side
"you're probably reaching 200 and 220 pounds of pressure on the high side, 35 pounds or so on the low. You shut it off."
The 'high side' is where the air conditioning refrigerant is really pressurized. It's important for making the system cool the air inside your car.
In automotive air conditioning systems, the 'high side' refers to the part of the system where the refrigerant is under high pressure after being compressed. This pressure is crucial for the cooling process.
low side
"35 pounds or so on the low. You shut it off. That high side has to continue to bleed off through that expansion valve until it equalizes with the low side."
The 'low side' is where the air conditioning refrigerant is less pressurized. It's important for the system to work properly and keep your car cool.
The 'low side' in an automotive air conditioning system is the part where the refrigerant is at a lower pressure before it returns to the compressor. It plays a key role in the cycle of cooling.
Nissan XTerra
"Yes, I was hoping to get a little help with my Nissan XTERRA 04 model. It is, it runs good..."
The Nissan XTERRA is a type of SUV that is built for both city driving and off-road adventures. The 2004 version is one of the earlier models.
The Nissan XTERRA is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. The 2004 model is part of the first generation of XTERRA, which was produced from 1999 to 2004.
crank sensor
"...you can eliminate the crank sensor. And it fires right up with a little squirt of..."
The crank sensor helps the car's computer know where the engine's crankshaft is and how fast it's turning. This is important for making sure the engine gets the right amount of fuel and spark to run properly.
The crank sensor, or crankshaft position sensor, monitors the position and rotational speed of the crankshaft. This information is crucial for the engine control unit (ECU) to manage fuel injection and ignition timing effectively.
fuel pump
"I thought that the fuel pump was going out, but then I checked the pressure on it, checked everything, and it seems to be fine."
The fuel pump is what sends gas from the tank to the engine. If it's not working, your car might not start or run well.
The fuel pump is a critical component in a vehicle's fuel system that delivers gasoline from the tank to the engine. If it fails, the engine may not receive the necessary fuel to operate properly.
fuel injector
"What if it had a leaky fuel injector?"
A fuel injector is what sprays gas into the engine so it can run. If it's leaking, it can make your car run badly or waste gas.
A fuel injector is a device that sprays fuel into the engine's combustion chamber. If a fuel injector is leaky, it can cause poor engine performance and fuel efficiency.
fuel pressure
"So you check your fuel pressure, drive it. I was told that it was a good number."
Fuel pressure is how hard the fuel is pushed from the tank to the engine. If it's too low, the engine might not run well or could flood with fuel.
Fuel pressure is the measure of the force with which fuel is delivered from the fuel pump to the engine. It's crucial for proper engine operation, as insufficient fuel pressure can lead to performance issues or engine flooding.
fuel rail
"Is that old enough where it still uses a fuel pressure regulator on the fuel rail?"
A fuel rail is a pipe that carries fuel to the engine's injectors. It helps ensure that the engine gets the fuel it needs to run.
The fuel rail is a component that delivers fuel from the fuel tank to the fuel injectors. It acts as a conduit for fuel and often houses the fuel pressure regulator.
GM
"Nissan might have been a little ahead of the curve, because GM was just starting to change it in those years."
GM stands for General Motors, a big car company in the United States that makes many different brands of cars.
General Motors (GM) is an American automotive corporation that produces vehicles under various brands, including Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick. They are one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world.
overfueling
"And if it starts like an old flooded carburetor, that could give you an indication too that you're overfueling."
Overfueling means the engine is getting too much fuel, which can make it hard to start and run properly. It can cause the engine to flood, similar to how an old carburetor might behave.
Overfueling occurs when too much fuel is delivered to the engine, which can lead to poor performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage. It often results in difficulty starting and running issues.
pressure regulator
"...Whether it be from a pressure regulator, which it may not have, or if you had injectors that were not holding..."
A pressure regulator is a part that keeps the fuel pressure steady in an engine. This helps the engine get the right amount of fuel it needs to run well.
A pressure regulator is a device that maintains a constant pressure in the fuel system of an engine. It ensures that the fuel injectors receive the correct pressure for optimal performance.
Jeep Grand
"What do you got for a Jeep? It's a 04 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0 inline 6, two-wheel drive,"
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a larger SUV that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures while still being comfortable for everyday use. It's a good choice if you need space and want to explore different terrains.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that combines off-road capability with a comfortable ride and upscale features. Known for its ruggedness, it appeals to both adventure seekers and families looking for a versatile vehicle.
Toyota Tacoma
"...ce, what can we do for you? I have a 2021 Toyota Tacoma and I want to know, my coworkers say that if you..."
The Toyota Tacoma is a small truck that people love for its strength and ability to go off-road. It's a great option if you need to haul things or want to drive on rougher paths.
The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It has a strong reputation for reliability and is often favored by those who need a truck for both work and recreation.
Honda Crvs
"...ng 500,000 miles. Is that what they're running as CRVs? Yeah. Yeah, I know that and they're running to ..."
The Honda CR-V is a small SUV that offers a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's known for being reliable and good on gas, making it a smart choice for families.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that is well-regarded for its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It has consistently ranked high in safety and customer satisfaction, making it a popular choice for families.
Ford Explorer
"...Is it a head gasket? What is it? Is this a turbo explorer? Is it turbocharged or is this what engine do you..."
The Ford Explorer is a bigger SUV that can fit a lot of people and gear. It's a good option for families or anyone who needs extra space for trips.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of comfort, technology, and performance. It has been a staple in the SUV market for years, known for its spacious interior and versatility for families and adventurers alike.
Chrysler Pacifica
"... can we do for you? Oh, hi. I got a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and I've been having trouble with the driver's s..."
The Chrysler Pacifica is a family van that has a lot of room for kids and their stuff. It's designed to be comfortable and has features that make it easy to use for family trips.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan that stands out for its family-friendly features, spacious interior, and advanced technology. It has been praised for its comfort and versatility, making it a popular choice for families.
Honda Odysseys
"over to the body shop. They have electric sliding doors have been a wonderful creation. They started using them. We started seeing them in early Siena's, early Odyssey's, Pontiac. But before that, they've started doing that in the Montanas and the transports."
The Honda Odyssey is a van that is great for families because it has lots of room and features that make traveling with kids easier. It's designed to be comfortable and safe for everyone.
The Honda Odyssey is a minivan known for its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and strong reliability. It has been a favorite among families for its comfort, safety ratings, and versatility.
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