Waiting On The Trooper: Cars, Laws, And Laughs
About this episode
A lively discussion kicks off with the hosts sharing automotive news, including Toyota's expansion into five brands, featuring a new high-performance GR brand. The episode also covers recent recalls affecting various models, including Jeep and Mazda. The hosts engage in a fun guessing game about classic car auction prices, revealing surprising values for iconic vehicles like the 1961 Chevrolet Impala and 1976 Cadillac El Dorado. With humor and camaraderie, they also touch on racing events and automotive history, making for an entertaining and informative episode.
Missed calls, rotary phones, and a trooper who can’t quite get a signal set the tone for a lively ride through today’s car world. We open with a burst of nostalgia—remember the “finger stop” on a dial phone?—then shift gears into the realities drivers face right now: inspection changes, mid-year law updates, and why some rules never match the rhythm of real life. From there, we pull back the curtain on dealership dynamics in smaller markets and the incentives that shape where families plant their flags and expand their rooftops.
The big industry turn lands with Amazon Autos: Ford dealers can now sell certified pre-owned vehicles on Amazon, complete with financing, warranties, and return windows. It’s a customer journey built for 2025—transparent pricing, nearby inventory, and a checkout that feels as familiar as buying a blender. We also get candid about DIY repair in the age of sealed modules. One headlight swap becomes a full bumper removal and a surprise hybrid of halogen and LED, exposing the gap between what manuals say and what cars actually do.
Our featured review zeroes in on the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer in EV spec—a two-row SUV with elegant lines, a properly luxurious cabin, and a calm, capable drive. With up to about 300 miles of range, full-time AWD, and roughly 3,500 pounds of towing, it squares up against Cadillac Lyriq and Genesis GV70 Electric while carving its own lane with smart packaging and serious cargo space. We break down trims, pricing, and the confusing Wagoneer versus Grand Wagoneer mix, then compare the EV with Jeep’s Hurricane six in the L variant for drivers who still want cylinders. Along the way, we unpack holiday car marketing that actually resonates: experiences, community, and the magic of a well-placed bow that makes a driveway feel like a movie scene.
Come for the laughs, stay for the insights, and leave with a sharper sense of how car culture, online retail, and electric SUVs are converging. If you enjoyed the ride, follow the show, share this episode with a friend, and drop us a quick rating or review—it helps more car lovers find us.
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Buick Century
"... Y O D A stood on a stage before an amber colored century coupe concept. It laid out a new vision"
The Buick Century is a comfortable car that was made for a long time, from 1936 to 2005. It's known for being smooth to drive and is a good choice for people who want a reliable vehicle.
The Buick Century is a mid-size car that was produced from 1936 to 2005, known for its comfort and smooth ride. It has been a significant model in Buick's lineup, representing the brand's focus on luxury and reliability. The Century has evolved over the years, adapting to changing consumer preferences.
Daihatsu
"...while Dhatsu will fill in the bottom end. Did they"
Daihatsu is a smaller car brand owned by Toyota, focusing on making small and affordable cars.
Daihatsu is a subsidiary of Toyota that specializes in small cars and is known for producing economical and compact vehicles.
GR brand
"The fifth brand, a new high-performance GR brand, was left mostly to the imagination with Toyota promising more details before the year end."
The GR brand is a special line of performance cars from Toyota that are designed for speed and excitement, often used in racing.
The GR brand, short for Gazoo Racing, is Toyota's performance division that focuses on developing high-performance vehicles, including sports cars and racing models.
Lexus LFA
"the spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA. You ever seen an LFA in person?"
The Lexus LFA is a high-end sports car made by Lexus, known for its powerful engine and unique design. It was produced in limited numbers and is considered a supercar.
The Lexus LFA is a limited-production supercar known for its high performance, distinctive design, and a naturally aspirated V10 engine. It was produced by Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, between 2010 and 2012.
GR subbrand
"Toyota has used GR as a subbrand similar to TRD Pro..."
The GR subbrand is a special name Toyota uses for its faster and sportier cars, like the GR Corolla.
The GR subbrand stands for Gazoo Racing and is used by Toyota to identify its performance-oriented models, similar to how TRD Pro is used for off-road vehicles.
Toyota GR Corolla
"including the GR Corolla hot hatch."
The GR Corolla is a sportier version of the regular Corolla, made to be faster and more fun to drive.
The GR Corolla is a high-performance version of the standard Toyota Corolla, designed for enthusiasts with enhanced handling and power.
Toyota Corolla
"...models within the Toyota lineup, including the GR Corolla hot hatch. Most recently, the new GR Sport"
GR Sport RAV4
"most recently, the new GR Sport RAV4 set to arrive..."
The GR Sport RAV4 is a special version of the RAV4 that looks sportier and may have better performance.
The GR Sport RAV4 is a performance-oriented variant of the popular Toyota RAV4 SUV, set to offer sportier styling and features.
Gazu Racing
"GR is an acronym for the automaker's in-house motorsports arm, Gazu Racing."
Gazu Racing is Toyota's team that works on fast cars and takes part in racing competitions.
Gazu Racing is Toyota's in-house motorsports division, responsible for developing performance vehicles and participating in racing events.
motorsports
"Toyota's personal obsession with motorsports and transforming the automakers products from boring to passionate and exciting has driven the company's design for nearly a decade..."
Motorsports are racing events where cars compete against each other. Companies like Toyota participate to improve their cars and show off their performance.
Motorsports refers to competitive events involving motor vehicles, including racing, rallying, and other forms of vehicle competition. Toyota's involvement in motorsports influences its vehicle design and performance.
V8
"...will be powered by some type of V8. That isn't far-fetched."
A V8 is a type of car engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's known for being powerful and smooth, often found in sports cars and trucks.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a V shape. This design typically provides a good balance of power and smoothness, making it popular in performance and luxury vehicles.
Buick Skylark
">> But this is a brand >> like Skylark Century. >> Yeah. So anyway, big news I think is"
The Buick Skylark is a car that was made from 1953 to 1998 and is known for being stylish and comfortable. Many people who love classic cars really like the Skylark because of its cool design.
The Buick Skylark is a mid-size car that was produced from 1953 to 1998, recognized for its stylish design and comfortable ride. It has been an important model for Buick, representing the brand's commitment to quality and performance. The Skylark has a strong following among classic car enthusiasts.
recall
"...let's do some recalls, shall we?"
A recall happens when a car company asks people to bring their cars back because there might be something wrong or unsafe with them. It's a way to fix problems to keep everyone safe.
A recall is a request to return a product, usually due to safety concerns or defects. In the automotive context, it often involves manufacturers asking vehicle owners to bring their cars in for repairs or replacements of faulty parts.
four-cylinder engine
"...four-cylinder engine used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall..."
A four-cylinder engine is a type of engine that has four small parts called cylinders. These engines are usually more fuel-efficient and are often found in smaller cars and SUVs.
A four-cylinder engine is an internal combustion engine with four cylinders arranged in a line or in a different configuration. It is known for being fuel-efficient and lightweight, making it suitable for smaller vehicles.
Jeep Grand
"...used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall..."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a larger SUV that offers comfort and luxury while still being able to go off-road. It's a popular choice for families and adventure seekers alike.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV that combines off-road capability with luxury features. It is known for its spacious interior and advanced technology options.
Jeep Wrangler
"behind. four-cylinder engine used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at ..."
Jeep Cherokee
"Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall cover..."
The Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV that has been around since 1974 and is famous for being tough and good for off-road driving. It's popular because it can handle rough terrain while still being comfortable for everyday use.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been a staple of the Jeep lineup since 1974, known for its off-road capability and rugged design. It has evolved through various generations, adapting to changing consumer preferences while maintaining its adventurous spirit. The Cherokee is significant for its blend of utility and comfort.
Mazda Cx50
">> sand you get sand in it. >> Yeah. Uh, other recalls, Mazda CX-50 and CX-50 hybrid for 2025 front suspension"
The Mazda CX-50 is a new small SUV that came out in 2022. It's made to be fun to drive and useful for everyday life, making it a good choice for families or anyone needing extra space.
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV introduced in 2022, designed to offer a blend of sporty performance and practicality. It features a stylish design and advanced technology, appealing to those looking for a modern vehicle with versatility. The CX-50 is part of Mazda's strategy to expand its SUV lineup.
Kia Tellide
"Kia Sorento and Kia Tellide incorrect spare tire 25 and 26. How do you do that?"
The Kia Telluride is a larger SUV from Kia that is known for being very roomy and safe, making it great for families.
The Kia Telluride is a larger SUV that has received accolades for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and overall value.
Kia Sorento
"Kia Sorento and Kia Tellide incorrect spare tire 25 and 26. How do you do that?"
The Kia Sorento is a type of SUV made by Kia. It's designed to be spacious and comfortable for families or groups.
The Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice for families.
Honda Civics
"Yeah. Civics on the Civics, right?"
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage. It's been around for a long time and is very common.
The Honda Civic is a popular compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has been a staple in the automotive market since its introduction in the 1970s.
airbag inflator
"...front airbag inflater may explode..."
An airbag inflator is a part that makes the airbag fill up with air quickly when there's an accident, keeping people safe.
An airbag inflator is a device that rapidly fills an airbag with gas in the event of a collision, helping to protect passengers from injury.
Bmw X5
"explode on the BMW X5 2000 to 20. Another Martha >> and the CNG manual ..."
The BMW X5 is a fancy SUV that started being sold in 1999. It's known for being comfortable and fun to drive, making it a popular choice for people who want a nice vehicle that can also carry a lot of stuff.
The BMW X5 is a luxury midsize SUV that debuted in 1999, marking BMW's entry into the SUV market. It is significant for its combination of performance, luxury, and versatility, appealing to both driving enthusiasts and families. The X5 has evolved through several generations, incorporating advanced technology and safety features.
Cadillac El
"...at car sold for. So, here we go. Ready? 1976 Jeff Cadillac El Dorado is huge for"
The Cadillac El Dorado is a fancy car that was made from 1953 to 2002 and is known for being luxurious and stylish. It's a symbol of wealth and comfort, making it a dream car for many people.
The Cadillac El Dorado is a luxury coupe produced from 1953 to 2002, known for its opulent design and powerful performance. It has been a symbol of American luxury and style, often featuring advanced technology for its time. The El Dorado is significant for its role in establishing Cadillac as a premier luxury brand.
Cutlass
"When my when my cutless got hit, I took it into the dealer, my dealer that I was working at, uh, Kurt Trova, and they painted it chestnut brown Cadillac color."
The Cutlass is a car made by Oldsmobile, which was a brand under General Motors. It came in different styles and was quite popular in its time.
The Oldsmobile Cutlass is a series of automobiles produced by Oldsmobile, a division of General Motors. It was popular in the mid-20th century and is known for its various body styles and trims.
Chevrolet Impala
"...ormation on this one. This is a 1961 >> Chevrolet Impala convertible, white with a red vinyl interior."
The Chevrolet Impala is a big car that has been around since 1958 and is known for being comfortable and roomy. The 1961 version, especially the convertible, is popular among car lovers for its cool look.
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size car that has been in production since 1958, known for its spacious interior and smooth ride. The 1961 model, particularly the convertible version, is celebrated for its stylish design and has become a classic among collectors. The Impala represents a significant era in American automotive history.
four-speed manual transmission
"four-speed manual transmission with"
A four-speed manual transmission is a type of gearbox that lets the driver change gears manually, giving them more control over how fast the car goes.
A four-speed manual transmission allows the driver to manually shift through four different gears, providing better control over the vehicle's speed and power delivery.
Ferrari 348
"I had been checking off the list, the 348 and the trip. There's no there's no bubble top convertible. Well, I know, but I mean they made them."
The Ferrari 348 is a sports car made by Ferrari in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It's recognized for its sleek look and powerful engine, which many car lovers admire.
The Ferrari 348 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Ferrari from 1989 to 1995. It is known for its distinctive design and performance characteristics, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
horsepower
"So, I just wanted to let you know that the uh engine uh at 350 horsepower. Okay."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. In automotive terms, it indicates how much work an engine can perform over time.
Jeep J
"floor like I was. >> So, the 84 Jeep J series sold for $18,900."
The Jeep J Series is a group of big trucks made by Jeep from the 1960s to the 1980s. They're known for being tough and good for driving off the road, making them popular for both work and fun.
The Jeep J Series refers to a line of full-size pickup trucks produced by Jeep from the 1960s to the 1980s. Known for their ruggedness and off-road capabilities, these trucks were designed for both work and leisure. The J Series is significant for its role in expanding Jeep's offerings beyond SUVs.
Plymouth P15
"...his is Yeah, this is a nice car. 1946 >> Plymouth P15. We would call it a woody >> uh because uh the si..."
The Plymouth P15 is an old car made from 1946 to 1950 that is known for its unique look and being affordable. It has wooden parts on the sides, which is why some people call it a 'woody.'
The Plymouth P15, produced from 1946 to 1950, is a post-World War II car known for its distinctive design and affordability. It was one of the first models released by Plymouth after the war, helping to revitalize the American automotive industry. The P15 is often referred to as a 'woody' due to its wooden paneling options.
Oldsmobile F85
"here's George's car up next. The 63 Oldsmobile F85. Remember the F85? >> I had one of those."
The Oldsmobile F85 is a small car that was made from 1961 to 1972 and is known for being light and having a powerful engine. It's special because it was one of the first small cars to use a V8 engine, making it popular among collectors.
The Oldsmobile F85 was a compact car produced from 1961 to 1972, known for its innovative design and use of lightweight materials. It was significant as one of the first cars to feature a V8 engine in a compact size, influencing future automotive designs. The F85 has become a collector's item due to its unique place in automotive history.
215 V8
"215 V8 all aluminum block and heads. Oo. 215. Big one."
The 215 V8 is a type of engine made by General Motors. It's made of aluminum, which makes it lighter and helps it perform better in cars.
The 215 V8 is a lightweight aluminum V8 engine produced by General Motors. It is known for its compact size and is often praised for its performance in various applications.
Ford Model
"... had no clue how much these cars were worth. 1922 Ford Model T. Obviously, black."
The Ford Model T is an old car that was made from 1908 to 1927 and is known for being the first car that many people could afford. It changed how cars were made and helped more people own cars.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing. It was significant for its mass production techniques, which made cars accessible to the general public. The Model T's simple design and reliability helped establish the automobile as a staple of American life.
Oldsmobile 88
"...h. No, I'm good. And last but not least, the 1978 Oldsmobile 88. Now, we used to call this the Delta 88."
The Oldsmobile 88 is a big car that was made from 1949 to 1999 and is known for being comfortable and easy to drive. It's popular because it has a lot of space inside and looks good.
The Oldsmobile 88, produced from 1949 to 1999, is a full-size car known for its smooth ride and spacious interior. It has been a significant model for Oldsmobile, representing the brand's commitment to comfort and performance. The 88 is often remembered for its classic styling and reliability.
Chevrolet Nova
"Those were my winter wheel covers on my Nova. Those wire wheels wire wheel covers were on my Nova for the winter."
The Chevrolet Nova is a small car made by Chevrolet, popular in the 1960s and 70s. It was known for being affordable and easy to drive.
The Chevrolet Nova is a compact car that was produced by Chevrolet from 1962 to 1979. It is known for its simple design and affordability, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.
NHRA
"...we're right now we're in the last event for NH. It's the In-N-Out Burger NH finals in Pomona. So..."
NHRA is a big organization that runs drag racing events, where cars race in a straight line to see who is fastest. They have different classes for different types of cars.
NHRA stands for the National Hot Rod Association, which is the largest motorsport sanctioning body in the world, primarily focused on drag racing. They organize events and championships for various classes of drag racing vehicles.
Formula 1
"...cuz they got a massive storm coming in Formula 1. There's only two more races left. Ah,..."
Formula 1 is a top-level car racing series where the fastest cars compete in races called Grands Prix. It's famous for its exciting races and advanced technology.
Formula 1 is a premier international auto racing sport known for its high-speed cars and prestigious races. It features a series of races known as Grands Prix, held on various circuits around the world.
Alfa 1900S
"up to 1908 and it's fascinating in the early 1900s the way these companies buy and sell that are mon..."
The Alfa Romeo 1900 is a stylish car made from 1950 to 1959 that is known for being sporty and well-designed. It helped make Alfa Romeo a popular brand for people who like fun cars.
The Alfa Romeo 1900, produced from 1950 to 1959, is a mid-size car known for its innovative design and performance. It was significant for being one of the first cars to be produced in large numbers by Alfa Romeo, helping to establish the brand's reputation for sporty vehicles. The 1900 is celebrated for its elegant styling and engineering.
automotive market
"...put Dodge on the map and becoming a serious competitor in America's growing automotive market."
The automotive market is the business of making and selling cars and trucks. It includes all the companies and products related to vehicles.
The automotive market refers to the industry involved in the design, manufacturing, marketing, and selling of motor vehicles. It encompasses various segments, including passenger cars, trucks, and electric vehicles.
Studebaker Presidents
"...November the 11th, 1928, Studebaker two Studebaker presidents. That's the car model. They averaged 85 miles an hour during a 24-hour run..."
The Studebaker President is a car that was made by the Studebaker company a long time ago. It was popular for its good looks and advanced features for its time.
The Studebaker President was a full-size car produced by Studebaker in the early to mid-20th century. It was known for its innovative features and stylish design, appealing to a wide range of consumers during its production years.
Studebaker
"...why they should buy a Studebaker. Then in 1960,..."
Studebaker was a car brand in the United States that made cars from the 1850s until the 1960s. They were known for unique designs and were quite popular in their time.
Studebaker was an American automobile manufacturer known for its innovative designs and contributions to the automotive industry, particularly in the mid-20th century.
Ford Mustang
"...d together that came up with these ideas like the Mustang and and they were all just considered this"
The Ford Mustang is a classic American sports car that first came out in 1964. It's famous for being fast and stylish, and many people love it because it represents freedom and adventure.
The Ford Mustang, introduced in 1964, is an iconic American muscle car known for its performance and distinctive styling. It played a significant role in popularizing the pony car segment and has become a symbol of American automotive culture. The Mustang continues to be celebrated for its power, design, and heritage.
General Motors Ev1
"first automaker to really get it into the EV1. >> But that won an award. Did you know"
The General Motors EV1 was an electric car made in the late 1990s and is important because it was one of the first electric cars that people could actually drive. It didn't last long, but it helped start the conversation about electric vehicles.
The General Motors EV1 was an electric car produced in the late 1990s, notable for being one of the first mass-produced electric vehicles in the modern era. It was significant for its innovative technology and design, paving the way for future electric vehicles. The EV1 is often remembered for its limited availability and the controversy surrounding its discontinuation.
Ford Maverick
"...cle classes to the lineup. The SUV series and the Maverick series. The Maverick class of cars pays homage to"
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that came back in 2021 after being popular in the 1970s. It's great for people who need a truck but want something easy to drive and good on gas.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that was reintroduced in 2021, designed to appeal to urban drivers looking for versatility and efficiency. It pays homage to the original Maverick from the 1970s, offering a modern take on a practical vehicle. The Maverick is significant for its affordability and fuel-efficient hybrid option.
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