Supply Chains On Thin Ice
About this episode
Supply chain issues are back in the spotlight as the automotive industry faces new challenges with microchip shortages. The episode dives into the struggles of companies like Nexperia, which has been affected by geopolitical tensions, leading to production slowdowns for major automakers like Honda and Volkswagen. The hosts also discuss a series of recalls, primarily affecting Ford vehicles, and share insights on recent automotive news, including Nissan's production cuts and upcoming car shows. The lively banter among the hosts adds a fun dynamic to the serious topics at hand.
A tiny, overlooked component is bringing giant assembly lines to a halt. We dig into the Nexperia saga—European control, Chinese export blocks, and a packaging choke point—and explain why the “boring” diodes and transistors tucked into door locks, HVAC, and wiper motors matter as much as any cutting-edge processor. When each vehicle hides 300 to 600 of these legacy chips, one missing part can park an entire line, and that’s exactly what Honda, Volkswagen, and Nissan are starting to face.
We connect the supply chain dots to real-world outcomes: reduced shifts, delayed models, and dealer backlogs. Then we pivot to a sharp recalls roundup, where Ford’s record-setting year meets moonroof deflectors, defrost issues, and camera failures, while tires and lighting glitches hit other brands from Cadillac to Fiat and Ferrari. It’s a tour of what happens when quality, parts availability, and service capacity collide—and what owners can do now to stay safe and informed.
For a breather, we fire up Name The Sold Car Price, comparing a 1952 Studebaker Commander, a 1965 MGB, an ’85 F-250, a 2002 Thunderbird, and a stunning 1936 Packard 120. You’ll hear what moved, what stalled, and what these numbers say about condition, provenance, and taste. We also map the calendar for Veterans Day cruise-ins, toy drives, and big regional shows—community checkpoints where car culture thrives, knowledge spreads, and enthusiasts help each other keep their machines on the road.
If you care about how cars are built, why they break, and where the culture is headed, this conversation brings clarity and a few laughs. Tap follow, share with a friend who loves shop talk, and leave a quick review telling us which sold-car price surprised you most. Your feedback helps more listeners find the show.
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semiconductor shortage
"As the industry was reminded during an earlier chip shortage, it takes just one missing part to shut down an entire production line. I've got a story on that coming up. The previous semiconductor shortage driven by the surge in demand after the 2020 COVID-19 shutdowns..."
A semiconductor shortage happens when there aren't enough tiny computer chips available. These chips are important for making cars and many other electronic devices, so when they're in short supply, it can cause big problems for manufacturers.
A semiconductor shortage refers to a significant decrease in the availability of semiconductor chips, which are critical components in modern vehicles and electronics. This shortage can disrupt production lines and affect the supply chain across various industries.
EV
"They canceled that new EV. They only had out for a half."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. This makes them better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of car that is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and lower operating costs.
Toyo Tire Holdings of America
"Well, they've got other shoes too there. So we've got some recalls to tell you about real quick. Toyo Tire Holdings of America, recalling certain passenger vehicle tires."
Toyo Tire Holdings is a company that makes tires for cars and trucks. They create different types of tires for different driving needs, including regular use and racing.
Toyo Tire Holdings of America is a manufacturer of tires for various types of vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs. They are known for producing high-performance tires that cater to both everyday driving and motorsport applications.
NHTSA
"So I suggest that you go to NHTSA, National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and go to their tire recall alert that they issued this week."
NHTSA stands for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a government agency that makes sure cars are safe to drive. They help with recalls if there are problems with vehicles or parts.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is a U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring the safety of motor vehicles and road users. They oversee vehicle recalls, safety standards, and consumer information related to vehicle safety.
recall
"...about 1% of the recall population expected to have the defect where the moon roof wind deflectors made detach..."
A recall happens when a car company finds a problem with their cars that could be dangerous. They ask owners to bring their cars in for repairs or fixes.
A recall is an action taken by a manufacturer to address safety defects or non-compliance with safety standards in vehicles. It often involves repairing or replacing defective parts to ensure the safety of the vehicle.
Lincoln Navigator
"Moonroof Deflector Recall covers the 2021 to 2022 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition..."
The Lincoln Navigator is a big, fancy SUV that offers a lot of space and luxury features. It's built for comfort and is often used by families or people who want a high-end vehicle.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior and high-end features. It is designed for comfort and performance, making it a popular choice among luxury vehicle buyers.
moonroof
"...Moonroof Deflector Recall covers the 2021 to 2022 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition..."
A moonroof is a glass panel in the roof of a car that can open up to let in air and light. It's a nice feature for enjoying the outdoors while driving.
A moonroof is a type of sunroof that is made of glass and can either be opened or tilted to allow fresh air into the vehicle. It enhances the driving experience by providing natural light and ventilation.
Ford F
"...21 to 23 Ford F-150 22 model F-250 350 and 450 about 1% of the recall population..."
The Ford F-150 is a big pickup truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being strong and able to carry heavy loads.
The Ford F-150 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its versatility, capability, and range of configurations. It is often used for both work and personal use.
Ford F 150
"...2 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition 21 to 23 Ford F 150 22 model F 250 350 and 450 about 1% of the recal..."
Ford Expedition
"...vers the 2021 to 2022 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition 21 to 23 Ford F 150 22 model F 250 350 and 450 ab..."
Ford Bronco
"...driver seat recall on the 21 to 23 Ford Bronco 3% have that detach..."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV made for off-road driving. It has a classic look and is great for adventures in nature.
The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV designed for off-road adventures, featuring a classic design and modern technology. It has gained popularity for its capabilities in various terrains.
Ford Explorer
"as well as the 25 to 26 Ford Explorer..."
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV that many families use. The 2025 and 2026 models have some new features to make them safer and better to drive.
The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that has been a popular choice for families and adventure seekers. The 2025-2026 models include updates and features that enhance safety and performance.
2025-2026 Lincoln Aviator
"as well as the 25 to 26 Lincoln Corsair and Aviator..."
The Lincoln Aviator is a bigger luxury SUV that offers a smooth ride and lots of features. The 2025 and 2026 versions are built for comfort and power.
The Lincoln Aviator is a midsize luxury SUV that combines performance with high-end features. The 2025-2026 models are designed to provide a comfortable and powerful driving experience.
Fiat 500 E
"Those tires Fiat 500 E headlights can be misadjusted Ferraris."
The Fiat 500 E is a small electric car from Fiat. It's designed for city driving and is more eco-friendly than regular cars because it runs on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Fiat 500 E is an electric version of the popular Fiat 500 city car, known for its compact size and urban-friendly design. It features an electric powertrain, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Ram Pro
"If you got a Ferrari and sorry, loose oil filter connection may leak Ram Pro"
The Ram Pro is a type of van made by Ram, mainly used for work and transporting goods. It's built to be strong and practical for businesses.
The Ram Pro is a line of commercial vans designed for businesses and utility purposes. It offers a spacious cargo area and is built for durability and functionality.
Lincoln Nautilus
"... Um, oh, there's Lincoln Corsairs, uh, explorers, Nautilus hybrids and a whole list of, uh, review, rear vi..."
The Lincoln Nautilus is a fancy SUV that’s designed to be very comfortable and has lots of high-tech features. It’s made for people who want a luxurious ride.
The Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury midsize SUV that emphasizes comfort, technology, and a smooth driving experience. It is part of Lincoln's lineup aimed at providing a premium experience for drivers and passengers.
Lincoln Corsairs
"Yeah. Um, oh, there's Lincoln Corsairs, uh, explorers, Nautilus hybrids and a whole lis..."
rear view camera
"...Nautilus hybrids and a whole list of, uh, review, rear view camera image may not display on"
A rear view camera is a camera on the back of a car that shows what’s behind it when you’re backing up. It helps drivers see things they might not see otherwise.
A rear view camera is a safety feature in vehicles that provides a view of the area behind the car when reversing. It helps drivers avoid obstacles and improve safety while backing up.
Michelin
"...but something. Did I say, did I say Cadillac?"
Michelin is a famous tire brand that makes tires for many types of vehicles. They are known for their high quality and are often used on luxury cars.
Michelin is a well-known tire manufacturer that produces a wide range of tires for cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They are recognized for their innovation and quality, often being a top choice for both everyday and performance vehicles.
Jeep Wranglers
"Um, Jeep gladiators, 223,209 model year 2020 gladiators and Wranglers... Are they still making the gladiator?"
The Jeep Wrangler is a type of vehicle made for off-roading. It's known for its strong build and ability to drive on rough terrain, making it a favorite for adventure seekers.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road vehicle that has been in production since the 1980s. It is known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
Jeep Gladiator
"...f vehicle information. Are they still making the gladiator? I thought they stopped them."
The Jeep Gladiator is a truck that looks like a Jeep and has a bed for carrying things. It’s known for being tough and good for off-roading, which means it can handle rough terrains like mountains or trails.
The Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck that combines the ruggedness of a Jeep with the utility of a truck bed. It was reintroduced in 2019 after a long hiatus, and its unique design and off-road capabilities make it a popular choice among adventure enthusiasts.
Studebaker Commander
"A 1952 Studebaker commander. Mars, do we have the picture of that? Not yet."
The Studebaker Commander is a car made by the Studebaker company in 1952. It was known for its unique design and was popular during its time.
The Studebaker Commander was a model produced by Studebaker, an American automobile manufacturer, known for its distinctive styling and innovative features during the early 20th century. The 1952 model year is particularly noted for its post-war design elements and was part of the brand's efforts to modernize its lineup.
Chevrolet Corvette
"Here's one for you, Jeff. The 2007 Chevrolet Corvette. That's a C six."
The 2007 Chevrolet Corvette is a fast sports car with a strong engine and a cool look. It’s part of a long line of Corvettes that are famous for being fun to drive and very stylish.
The 2007 Chevrolet Corvette, part of the C6 generation, is known for its powerful V8 engine and sleek design. It represents a significant evolution in the Corvette lineup, offering improved performance and technology compared to its predecessors.
Mgbs
"Next up is the 1965 MGB. Remember the MGBs? He'd be sports car from Great Britain that they..."
The MG MGB is a small, fun sports car from Britain that people loved to drive in the 1960s and 70s. It’s known for being easy to handle and has a classic look.
The MG MGB is a classic British sports car that was produced from the 1960s to the early 1980s. It is celebrated for its simple design, enjoyable driving experience, and has become a symbol of British motoring heritage.
Chevrolet pickup
"How about a 1946 Chevrolet post-war pickup? That's all it says."
The 1946 Chevrolet pickup is a type of truck made by Chevrolet after the war. It's known for being strong and has a simple look, which many people like to collect.
The 1946 Chevrolet pickup is a classic truck model produced shortly after World War II. It is known for its sturdy build and simple design, making it a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts.
Buick Roadmaster
"1957 Buick Roadmaster. This is the exact same car that my buddy, Danny Krieger, ran through his grandmother's front garage."
The 1957 Buick Roadmaster is a big, fancy car made by Buick. It's known for being luxurious and powerful, typical of American cars from that time period.
The 1957 Buick Roadmaster is a full-size car known for its luxury features and powerful performance. It was part of Buick's lineup during the 1950s, a time when American cars were characterized by their bold designs and advanced engineering.
Ford Crown
"How about a 55 Ford crown victory? Oh, bliceless."
The Ford Crown Victoria is a large car that was commonly used by police and taxis. The 1955 version has a classic look and is loved by car enthusiasts.
The Ford Crown Victoria is a full-size sedan that was popular for its spacious interior and rear-wheel-drive layout. The 1955 model is known for its classic styling and was often used as a police car and taxi.
Ford Thunderbird
"Thank you, Michael. A 2002 Ford Thunderbird. What do you think that that went for?"
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird is a stylish two-door car that looks a bit like older models from the 1950s. It has a powerful engine and was made to bring back the classic feel of the original Thunderbirds.
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird is a modern revival of the classic American coupe, featuring a retro design and a V8 engine. It aimed to capture the spirit of the original Thunderbirds from the 1950s while incorporating contemporary technology.
V8 engine
"And if I'm not mistaken, I think it had a V8 in it. Yeah, I'm sure it did."
A V8 engine has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, which helps the car produce more power. It's commonly found in many performance and luxury vehicles.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a 'V' shape. This design allows for more power and smoother operation compared to smaller engines.
Corvette club car show
"And then next Sunday, the, uh, ninth is the eighth annual Corpus Christi Corvette car Corvette club car show, say that fast social club. It's a Corpus Christi Corvette club car show."
A Corvette club car show is a gathering where people who own or love Corvettes come together to show off their cars. It's a fun event where you can see many different types of Corvettes and meet other fans.
A Corvette club car show is an event where owners and enthusiasts of Chevrolet Corvettes gather to display their vehicles, share experiences, and participate in competitions or awards. These shows often feature various models of Corvettes and provide a social atmosphere for fans of the brand.
Honda
"Um, November 9th from 11 to two, the Honda of Tom Ball's fifth annual car show."
Honda is a car company from Japan that makes many reliable and fuel-efficient cars. They are well-known for their quality and have a good reputation among car buyers.
Honda is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing reliable cars, motorcycles, and power equipment. The brand is recognized for its innovative engineering and fuel-efficient vehicles.
Mazda Tribute
"... begins 10 a.m. check in parking, 10 30 veterans tribute. It goes on all day."
The Mazda Tribute is a small SUV that was made in the early 2000s. It’s good for families because it has a lot of space and can handle different types of driving.
The Mazda Tribute is a compact SUV that was produced in the early 2000s, sharing its platform with the Ford Escape. It is known for its practicality and versatility, making it a suitable choice for families.
parts shortages
"Parts shortages have forced Nissan to scale back US production of its best selling model, the rogue crossover."
Parts shortages happen when car manufacturers can't get the parts they need to build cars. This can lead to fewer cars being made and sold.
Parts shortages refer to the lack of available components needed for vehicle production, which can disrupt manufacturing schedules and reduce the number of vehicles produced. This issue has been prevalent in the automotive industry due to supply chain disruptions.
Nissan Rogue
"...ack US production of its best selling model, the rogue crossover. Japanese automaker told suppliers Oct..."
The Nissan Rogue is a small SUV that’s great for families because it has a lot of room inside. It’s popular because it’s safe and doesn’t use too much gas.
The Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, safety features, and fuel efficiency. It is often recognized as one of Nissan's best-selling models, appealing to families and commuters alike.
Nissan Pathfinder
"...ly line and will prioritize output of the Murano pathfinder and infinity QX 60 through the end of this month...."
Nissan Murano
"... assembly line and will prioritize output of the Murano pathfinder and infinity QX 60 through the end of ..."
The Nissan Murano is a type of SUV that’s bigger than a car and has more space inside for people and things. It’s known for being comfortable and having a unique look.
The Nissan Murano is a mid-size crossover SUV that offers a blend of comfort, style, and advanced technology. It is known for its distinctive design and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families.
Toyota Corolla
"There you go. Toyota Corolla concept got attention at the 2025 Japan mobility ..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it’s dependable and saves on gas. The new version shown at a big event in Japan shows that Toyota is working on new ideas for cars in the future.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in the world, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The concept version showcased at the 2025 Japan mobility event highlights Toyota's commitment to innovation and future mobility solutions.
Jeep Compass
"...there. And, uh, Stalata's decision to shift Jeep Compass production to the US from its Brampton, Ontario ..."
The Jeep Compass is a small SUV that can go off-road like other Jeeps, but it’s also good for driving around town. It’s designed to be practical for everyday use.
The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that combines the brand's off-road capabilities with everyday usability. It has undergone several updates to enhance its features and performance, making it a popular choice for urban and adventurous drivers alike.
Dodge Ram
"...interproduction that same year in Ohio will give Ram a much more comprehensive product range. Accordi..."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is good for work or play. It’s known for being powerful and comfortable to drive.
The Dodge Ram, now known as the Ram Truck, is a full-size pickup truck that is well-regarded for its performance, towing capacity, and comfort. It has evolved significantly over the years, becoming a strong competitor in the truck market.
full-size pickups
"...full size pickups account for 85% of the brand's US sales this year."
Full-size pickups are big trucks that can carry a lot of stuff and tow heavy things. They're great for people who need a strong vehicle for work or recreation.
Full-size pickups are larger trucks designed for heavy-duty tasks, offering more cargo space and towing capacity compared to mid-sized or compact pickups. They are often used for both work and personal purposes.
Chrysler Imperial
"...the Chrysler brand, Chrysler, the Chrysler Imperial."
The Chrysler Imperial was a fancy car made by Chrysler that was known for being very luxurious and stylish. It was one of their top models.
The Chrysler Imperial was a luxury vehicle produced by Chrysler, known for its high-end features and elegant design. It was a flagship model for the brand during its production years.
Chrysler 300
"...where you're going with the Chrysler 300. Cordova."
The Chrysler 300 is a large car that looks stylish and has a lot of room inside. It's known for being comfortable and having good performance.
The Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan known for its bold styling and spacious interior. It has been popular for its performance and luxury features since its introduction in the early 2000s.
Chrysler Pacifica
"...in the Pacifica under Chrysler."
The Chrysler Pacifica is a family-friendly minivan that has a lot of space inside and comes with many features that make it easy to use for families.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan that offers a spacious interior and family-friendly features. It has been praised for its versatility and advanced technology options.
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