{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"The Big 3 Winter Checks: Battery, Exhaust, & timing belts-Do NOT Skip These! ","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-big-3-winter-checks-battery-exhaust-timing-belts-do-not-skip-these","audioUrl":"https://content.rss.com/episodes/340678/2379661/car-connection-workshop/2025_12_09_19_34_43_1433de21-2f19-4e18-a514-3b501fb75c0a.mp3","description":"Question : \"what's ONE winter problem you've dealt with before-battery, exhaust , or timing belt?  In today's episode of the Car Connection Workshop Podcast, we're talking about The Big Three winter must-checks that most drivers ignore until it's too late: 1) Battery testing - cold weather kills weak batteries FAST2) Exhaust system inspection - leaks can send carbon monoxide into your cabin3) Timing belts - especially on interference engines ( breaks = engine damage = $$$)If your vehicle uses a timing belt , know the replacement interval and change it EARLY. And remember - interference engines and broken belts don't get along. Pistons meet valves, and suddenly you're shopping for an engine you never budgeted for.  Plus-DO NOT blast through deep winter puddles, Water can get behind the timing cover, freeze overnight, and destroy the belt the next time you start the engine. A little preventative maintenance, right now, can save thousands and keep you safe all winter long. Like and follow to help us grow into 2026 and start helping those who truly need it, Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, Listen on iHeart and every podcast platform worldwide, Visit StevensvilleOnTheWeb.ca and click \"Businesses tab\" , Every subscribe helps us move toward monetization - so we can support single moms, widowed ladies, and folks trying to rebuild their lives. Don't forget to grab some Motormouth Merch from our web site ccbusnet.com all our program partners are there on our home page connect by simply clicking on their logo, all of our links are there top right hand corner of the home page, and our  merch store! buy some merch help save someone from addiction! how cool is that!  Your support literally becomes someone else's safety and second chance.  \"Safety isn't expensive-emergencies are. Check the big three, stay winter ready, and keep more money in your pocket where it belongs.\" Happy Motoring! Thanks for tuning in and watching! Much appreciated friends, Peace, Patience, Kindness, always, Nile Motormouth Jenkins NMJ "},"annotations":[{"startTime":687.3,"endTime":694.9,"type":"term","title":"four-way flashers","url":"/glossary/four-way-flashers","quote":"Here's an extra bonus motormouth tip. Put the four-way flashers on. Go to the back of the car. If the four-way flashers are working all the way around the car, that means your signals are all working.","canonicalId":"term:four-way-flashers","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Four-way flashers, also known as hazard lights, are lights that flash simultaneously on all four corners of a vehicle to alert other drivers of a potential hazard or emergency situation. They are typically activated by a switch on the dashboard.","simplifiedExplanation":"Four-way flashers are the lights that blink on all sides of your car. You use them to warn other drivers when you're having trouble or need to stop unexpectedly."}},{"startTime":707.9,"endTime":714.4,"type":"term","title":"third brake light","url":"/glossary/third-brake-light","quote":"That means the brake lights are working at the back too except for the cyclops. The third eye, yeah, that's different. That's different.","canonicalId":"term:third-brake-light","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The third brake light, often referred to as the 'center high mount stop lamp' (CHMSL), is an additional brake light located higher than the standard left and right brake lights. It enhances visibility for drivers behind the vehicle when the brakes are applied.","simplifiedExplanation":"The third brake light is an extra light on the back of your car that lights up when you press the brake pedal. It's usually located higher up, so it's easier for drivers behind you to see when you're stopping."}},{"startTime":732.1,"endTime":737.6,"type":"term","title":"power seat","url":"/glossary/power-seats","quote":"If it's a power seat or manual, just slip it forward and there you go. Brake lights are on.","canonicalId":"term:power-seats","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A power seat is an adjustable car seat that can be moved forward, backward, or tilted using electric controls rather than manual levers. This feature allows for easier customization of seating position for comfort and accessibility.","simplifiedExplanation":"A power seat is a car seat that you can move around using buttons instead of pulling on a lever. This makes it easier to find a comfortable position when you're driving."}},{"startTime":762.8,"endTime":768.3,"type":"term","title":"circle check","url":"/glossary/circle-check","quote":"What's the big deal about the walk around? You know what? Truck drivers, bus drivers, coach drivers, they all do their walk. They're circle check and we should do a circle check as well.","canonicalId":"term:circle-check","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A circle check is a thorough inspection of a vehicle, typically performed by drivers of larger vehicles like trucks and buses, to ensure that everything is in working order before driving. This includes checking lights, tires, and other critical components.","simplifiedExplanation":"A circle check is when drivers walk around their vehicle to make sure everything is okay before they drive. They look at things like the lights and tires to catch any problems early."}},{"startTime":775.3,"endTime":780.1,"type":"part","title":"tire","url":"/glossary/tires","quote":"I'm looking at the tires, see if there's anything stuck in the tread that doesn't belong there.","canonicalId":"part:tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The tire is a rubber component that encases the wheel of a vehicle, providing traction and support. Regular checks for damage or foreign objects in the tread are crucial for safety and performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"A tire is the round rubber part of a car that touches the road. It's important to check them for any damage or things stuck in them to keep the car safe to drive."}},{"startTime":790.1,"endTime":795.4,"type":"part","title":"plug patch combo","url":"/glossary/plug-patch-combo","quote":"We were able to fix it with a plug patch combo but a spoon jammed in the tire and it was in and it was folded over.","canonicalId":"part:plug-patch-combo","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A plug patch combo is a method used to repair a punctured tire. It involves inserting a rubber plug into the hole and applying a patch on the inside to seal it, ensuring the tire remains airtight and safe for use.","simplifiedExplanation":"A plug patch combo is a way to fix a hole in a tire. It uses a rubber plug to fill the hole and a patch on the inside to keep air from leaking out."}},{"startTime":965.0,"endTime":969.0,"type":"company","title":"City Auto Sales and Leasing","url":"/glossary/city-auto-sales-and-leasing","quote":"Thanks to Earl and Louise Grant at City Auto Sales and Leasing in Toronto. They're GTA's premier pre-owned auto store for well over 25 years now.","canonicalId":"company:city-auto-sales-and-leasing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"City Auto Sales and Leasing is a pre-owned auto dealership located in Toronto, known for its extensive inventory and customer service.","simplifiedExplanation":"City Auto Sales and Leasing is a car dealership in Toronto that sells used cars. They focus on providing good quality vehicles and helping customers with financing options."}},{"startTime":997.5,"endTime":1003.4,"type":"company","title":"Rainbow Motors and Garage","url":"/glossary/rainbow-motors-and-garage","quote":"...Rita and Ramiz, Shenouda, the owners at Rainbow Motors and Garage in Scarborough. You have a small car lot","canonicalId":"company:rainbow-motors-and-garage","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rainbow Motors and Garage is another dealership mentioned in the segment, located in Scarborough, likely offering a variety of vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Rainbow Motors and Garage is a car dealership in Scarborough. They sell cars and provide services related to vehicles."}},{"startTime":1286.78,"endTime":1296.82,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Fj Cruisers","url":"/cars/toyota/fj-cruiser","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/86/TOYOTA_FJ_CRUISER_China_%282%29.jpg","quote":"...our old seven FJ cruisers got another exhaust leak,...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:fj-cruiser","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled SUV known for its off-road capabilities and distinctive design. It was produced from 2006 to 2014 and is popular among off-road enthusiasts.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a tough SUV that looks a bit like classic Land Cruisers. It's great for off-roading and has a unique style that many people love.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1286.8,"endTime":1291.8,"type":"part","title":"exhaust system","url":"/glossary/exhaust-system","quote":"...exhaust system inspection, yep I got a leaker,...","canonicalId":"part:exhaust-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The exhaust system is responsible for directing exhaust gases away from the engine and reducing harmful emissions. It typically includes components like the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler.","simplifiedExplanation":"The exhaust system helps get rid of the gases that come from the engine. It also helps make the car quieter and cleaner for the environment."}},{"startTime":1330.0,"endTime":1335.0,"type":"term","title":"oxygen sensors","url":"/glossary/oxygen-sensors","quote":"...you got to open exhaust somewhere that throws off your oxygen sensors and what that means...","canonicalId":"term:oxygen-sensors","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Oxygen sensors measure the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases and help the engine control module adjust the air-fuel mixture for optimal combustion. They are crucial for emissions control and fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Oxygen sensors check how much oxygen is in the car's exhaust. This helps the engine run better and keeps emissions low, which is good for the environment."}},{"startTime":1353.6,"endTime":1364.0,"type":"term","title":"carbon monoxide","url":"/glossary/carbon-monoxide","quote":"...the second thing is carbon monoxide doesn't smell taste or you can't even see it but in the winter it sits heavy underneath your vehicle, so if you're sitting there idling for way too long...","canonicalId":"term:carbon-monoxide","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be harmful or fatal if inhaled in large quantities. It is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels, including gasoline, and can accumulate in enclosed spaces, such as inside a vehicle when idling.","simplifiedExplanation":"Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas that you can't see or smell. It can build up in your car if it's running for a long time without moving, which can be very harmful."}},{"startTime":1564.0,"endTime":1571.6,"type":"term","title":"battery testing","url":"/glossary/battery-testing","quote":"...we need to be prepared and if we test the battery and and it's on the low side of the scale...","canonicalId":"term:battery-testing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Battery testing involves checking the charge and health of a vehicle's battery to ensure it can start the engine and power electrical systems. It's important to perform regular tests, especially before winter, to avoid unexpected failures.","simplifiedExplanation":"Battery testing is when you check how well a car's battery is working. This helps make sure the car will start and run properly, especially in cold weather."}},{"startTime":1700.0,"endTime":1709.0,"type":"term","title":"booster cables","url":"/glossary/booster-cables","quote":"...I got booster cables I thought well just check see if uh if uh CJ's in town...he goes yeah I gotta set two so we're good to go...","canonicalId":"term:booster-cables","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Booster cables are heavy-duty electrical cables used to connect a dead battery to a charged battery in another vehicle, allowing the dead battery to receive a jump start.","simplifiedExplanation":"Booster cables are long wires that help start a car with a dead battery by connecting it to another car's working battery. They transfer power from one battery to the other."}},{"startTime":1755.6,"endTime":1764.8,"type":"term","title":"standing voltage","url":"/glossary/standing-voltage","quote":"...the standing voltage on a battery is 12.6 to 13.4 volts and we want to see as close to 13.4 as possible...","canonicalId":"term:standing-voltage","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Standing voltage refers to the voltage level of a battery when it is not under load. This is an important indicator of the battery's health and charge state.","simplifiedExplanation":"Standing voltage is the amount of electricity a battery has when it's not being used. It's a good way to check if the battery is still good."}},{"startTime":1764.8,"endTime":1773.6,"type":"term","title":"weak zone","url":"/glossary/weak-zone","quote":"...if it drops into the weak zone which is around 11 to 10.6...","canonicalId":"term:weak-zone","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The weak zone refers to a range of battery voltage levels that indicate the battery is not performing well and may soon fail. This typically falls below 12 volts.","simplifiedExplanation":"The weak zone is when a battery's voltage is low, meaning it might not work well or could fail soon. It's a sign that you should replace it."}},{"startTime":1842.9,"endTime":1852.4,"type":"term","title":"timing belt","url":"/glossary/timing-belt","quote":"...whether your engine under the hood has a timing belt show of hands I don't know it's another IDK moment that's what we say in the workshop IDK I don't know well you need to know because in the winter that's generally when they snap...","canonicalId":"term:timing-belt","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A timing belt is a critical component in an engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. If it breaks, it can lead to severe engine damage, especially in interference engines where pistons and valves occupy the same space.","simplifiedExplanation":"A timing belt is a part of the engine that helps keep everything moving in sync. If it breaks, it can cause big problems, like damaging other parts of the engine."}},{"startTime":1861.3,"endTime":1869.0,"type":"term","title":"interference engine","url":"/glossary/interference-engine","quote":"...if your engine is not is there's interference engine and non-interference and what does that mean okay try and make it simple...","canonicalId":"term:interference-engine","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An interference engine is one where the pistons and valves occupy the same space in the cylinder. If the timing belt fails, the pistons can collide with the valves, causing significant damage.","simplifiedExplanation":"An interference engine is a type of engine where the moving parts can hit each other if something goes wrong, like if the timing belt breaks. This can lead to expensive repairs."}},{"startTime":2031.3,"endTime":2039.5,"type":"term","title":"engine damage","url":"/glossary/engine-damage","quote":"...we're talking this may sound high tech but it just means major engine damage so if you go pile driving through slushy puddles...","canonicalId":"term:engine-damage","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Engine damage refers to any harm that affects the engine's performance, efficiency, or functionality. This can result from various issues, including mechanical failures, overheating, or contamination, and often requires extensive repairs or replacement.","simplifiedExplanation":"Engine damage means something is wrong with the engine that can make it not work properly. This can happen for many reasons and usually means it needs to be fixed or replaced, which can be very costly."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Nile Jenkins","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-big-3-winter-checks-battery-exhaust-timing-belts-do-not-skip-these/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}