Episodes

Donnie Sanford shares his journey transitioning from owning an independent auto parts store to managing a location within a larger family-run chain. The conversation explores the pros and cons of entrepreneurship versus working for someone else, including the challenges of business ownership like inventory management, cash flow, and employee relations. They also dive into technical topics such as key programming complexities, module sourcing, and diagnostic challenges. Both hosts reflect on the evolving automotive repair landscape, specialization benefits, and the realities of running a business versus being an employee.

Winter driving can be tough, but this episode offers a unique hack for car enthusiasts. Host Dave Polage discusses the challenges of maintaining vehicles during winter months, especially for those who drive their prized cars year-round. He suggests buying a cheap 'beater' car for winter use, allowing owners to protect their main vehicles while still getting around. The conversation also touches on the recent F1 race in Las Vegas and the mixed reactions it has received. Tune in for practical tips and engaging automotive discussions.

Exploring the iconic Daikoku Parking Area, Bobby and Aaron share their experiences and insights about this legendary car meet spot in Japan. They discuss the unique features of Daikoku, from its vibrant atmosphere to the diverse range of cars that gather there. The hosts highlight the growing issue of disrespect among some visitors, which threatens the future of this beloved location. With tales of their visits, they emphasize the importance of understanding and respecting Japanese car culture to preserve the essence of Daikoku.

Ken Gross shares his passion for curating automotive shows and museums, highlighting the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival's charitable impact and the unique appeal of hot rods in American car culture. He discusses the Savoy Automobile Museum's innovative displays and the challenges of showcasing cars as art. The conversation also touches on historic car design influences, notable collectors like the Meyers, and upcoming events featuring automotive designers. Ken's deep connections and expertise bring fascinating insights into the intersection of art, history, and car enthusiasm.

The discussion covers recent UAW labor contract votes with notable voter apathy, and the ripple effects on wage increases at various automakers. GM's integration of BrightDrop signals cost-cutting moves post-contract. Cadillac expands Lyric EV sales globally with new variants, while Lucid unveils its Gravity SUV featuring advanced battery tech and impressive range. Honda introduces hands-free driving tech and partners with Amazon for online vehicle sales. Chinese automaker GAC aims to launch solid-state battery EVs by 2026, potentially leading the market. BMW's centerlock wheels require an unexpectedly high torque, highlighting unique engineering details.

Critics weigh in on the latest contenders for the North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards, discussing standout models like the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Toyota Prius, and Ford Super Duty. The panel, featuring automotive experts including Jody Lai and Joann Muller, shares their thoughts on design, performance, and market viability. Debates arise over the merits of electric vehicles versus traditional models, with insights into consumer preferences and industry trends. The episode offers a deep dive into the evolving automotive landscape and what it means for future vehicle choices.

Jason Feldman from Helfman CDJR dealership discusses the growing issue of customer ID fraud in auto sales, sharing insights on how the dealership combats this crime with the help of the Houston Police Department. He explains the tactics used to identify fraudulent activities, including red flags like zero money down and the importance of training staff to recognize potential scams. The episode also touches on the impact of recent strikes on vehicle availability and the dealership's overall business performance, alongside automotive news and a car maintenance clinic segment.

Ryan Turck, a veteran in the drifting scene, shares his journey from grassroots to professional drifting in Formula Drift. He discusses his unique project cars, including a Ferrari 458-powered Toyota 86 and a Judd V10-powered Supra, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of each build. The episode dives into sponsorship strategies for aspiring racers and the evolution of drifting technology and competition. Ryan's insights into balancing passion with the pressures of professional motorsport make for an engaging listen for anyone interested in the world of drifting.

The discussion covers the recent approval of UAW contracts at major automakers, signaling an end to strikes and opening the door for union efforts at non-union automakers. Mercedes and ChargePoint are expanding fast-charging networks to ease EV charging anxiety. A study highlights that only EV sales are on track to meet net-zero goals by 2050. Hyundai’s new Ioniq 5 N performance EV features artificial engine sounds and advanced cooling, while Genesis introduces the GV80 coupe SUV. Ford launches a real-time driver feedback app to improve vehicle issues. Toyota partners with Redwood Materials to recycle EV batteries, and Chinese brand Hyper debuts an electric SUV with gullwing doors. Domino’s unveils a pizza delivery e-bike with temperature control, debuting outside the US.

Ed Roberts, COO of Bozart Ford and Lincoln, joins the Car Guy Coffee Podcast to share insights on leadership, mentorship, and the importance of family as a driving force in his career. The conversation highlights Ed's journey from an apprentice to a top executive, emphasizing the value of building strong teams and fostering personal connections. He discusses how mentorship has shaped his path and the significance of empowering the next generation in the automotive industry. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on leadership and personal growth.

Bisi Ezerioha shares his unlikely journey from Nigeria to Long Beach at 16, then into car culture through engineering curiosity and street-racing “street cred.” He details how a cheap muffler swap unexpectedly boosted his CRX, and how mentors like John Concialti (AM) taught him exhaust/intake flow and cam timing. Racing paid for college, including a huge $5k win, but a violent track incident helped him quit. He later pivots to EV conversions—starting reluctantly after seeing OEMs go electric—using Tesla drive units and custom control/regen setups to build scary-fast, still-visceral conversions.

John Poulos from the Texas Region SCCA discusses the upcoming Mystery Road Rally, a fun and engaging event that combines driving with solving puzzles and answering questions based on road signs. The rally is open to all street-legal vehicles and encourages family participation. The episode also features a segment on the impact of electric vehicles on manual transmissions, highlighting how EVs are changing the automotive landscape while still creating a demand for traditional driving experiences. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights on the evolving car culture.

The episode covers ongoing challenges with the UAW contract votes, highlighting opposition at GM and the potential for further strikes. GM's autonomous unit Cruise is under scrutiny after safety incidents, while China advances in robotaxi testing. GM's acquisition of Tooling and Equipment International signals a big push into giga casting for EVs. Renault's new EV division Ampere aims for ambitious growth and cost reductions, planning multiple models and an IPO. Toyota unveils the US Crown crossover and a hybrid-only Camry. Innovations like ZF's brake-by-wire system promise better performance. Finally, Michael Andretti's F1 team backed by GM faces resistance, but GM plans to build an F1 engine by 2027.

Cam Scorey shares his journey from working at a dealership to founding Hustlin Auto Detailing in regional Victoria. He discusses his unique upbringing, moving from Papua New Guinea to Australia, and the challenges he faced in establishing his business. Cam reflects on the importance of customer service, the emotional connections formed through detailing, and the satisfaction of transforming neglected vehicles. He also touches on his love for classic cars, the detailing industry, and the significance of mentorship. This heartfelt conversation reveals the passion and dedication behind his craft.

Delve into the world of car batteries as the In Wheel Time crew ranks them from worst to best. The discussion covers various brands, including Everstart, Interstate, Motorcraft, and the top-rated Optima. Listeners will learn about the unique features of AGM batteries, the importance of cold cranking amps, and the implications of battery choice on vehicle performance. The episode also features light-hearted banter among the hosts, making for an entertaining yet informative listen.

A lively discussion on the world of automotive special editions, highlighting the often lackluster features and marketing gimmicks behind them. Hosts Matty J, David Prince, and Scotty Dog Johnson share amusing anecdotes about various special editions, including the Honda Civic Grand Prix Edition and the Ford Mustang Night Pony. They debate the value of these editions, with some being mere sticker jobs, while others have unique features. The episode also touches on personal car updates and experiences with new models, making it a mix of humor and automotive insights.

At Sydney Dragway, Jimmy from ERS discusses a remarkable 900hp Evo build that blurs the lines between show and drag car. The episode dives into the unique design choices, including a full interior for street legality and advanced technology like a Bullitt 4G63 engine and a Hollinger sequential gearbox. Key features include a dual wheel setup for street and drag racing, a nitrous system for boost response, and an intricate electronics package for performance monitoring. The conversation highlights the balance between aesthetics and performance, aiming to break records while maintaining drivability.

Wage hikes by Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai in response to UAW strikes signal a trend among non-union automakers to deter unionization. The financial strain on suppliers is evident as Unique Fabricating files for bankruptcy, disrupting Stellantis and GM, compounded by a cyberattack on supplier Young Fung. Fisker cuts its production forecast amid losses, while Tesla negotiates tariff reductions to expand in India. Mercedes launches a mobile mechanic service in Germany, and European markets see new electric people movers from Renault and Bougeau. Toyota partners with San Diego Gas & Electric to explore bidirectional charging technology. The episode also highlights record-breaking Ferrari auction sales and Polestar’s upcoming electric sports car plans.

A heartfelt discussion on Veterans Day highlights the importance of honoring veterans while exploring the car community. Guests include Randy Weldon, who shares insights on Mustang culture and charitable events like Coffee and Cars for a Cause, which supports health initiatives for veterans. The hosts also review the 2024 Ram 1500, praising its luxurious features and performance. The episode emphasizes camaraderie within car clubs and the joy of sharing automotive experiences, making it a rich blend of automotive passion and community spirit.

Dive into the extensive data behind Zapmap, the popular EV charging app, with Jade Edwards, head of insights. Discover how Zapmap collects, analyzes, and shares detailed charger usage, pricing, and location data with EV drivers, industry partners, and government bodies. Learn about their large-scale EV driver surveys, data visualization techniques, and collaborations like the EVA England constituency map. The episode also highlights Zapmap's role beyond an app, acting as a vital data resource shaping the UK’s EV infrastructure. Plus, a green cricket stadium story rounds out the discussion on sustainability in sports.

The discussion covers the mixed reactions to the new UAW contract, with several locals rejecting it despite most approvals. U.S. EV sales hit record quarterly numbers but show signs of slowing, prompting cautious automaker plans. Key developments include new EV repair standards by CARB, Continental's job cuts amid EV transition, and Renault's electric retrofit kits for classic cars. China’s car market remains strong, and Volvo is launching a high-end electric minivan with advanced tech. Tesla introduces resale restrictions on the Cybertruck to curb flipping. The episode also highlights ongoing investments in EV supply chains and manufacturing.

Danielle Walden joins the Car Guy Coffee Podcast to share her journey from professional tennis to the automotive industry. With a focus on unlocking potential, she discusses the importance of leadership and mentorship in achieving success. Danielle emphasizes the need for dealers to embrace change and cultivate a culture of growth. Her recent experience as a keynote speaker at Digital Dealer Tampa highlights her commitment to challenging the status quo and inspiring others. The episode is filled with insights on personal development, competitive spirit, and the power of belief.

A lively discussion unfolds as the hosts dive into the world of classic car sales, sharing insights from Hemmings' sold cars roundup. They playfully guess the sale prices of various iconic vehicles, including a 1968 AMC AMX and a 1958 Cadillac, revealing surprising market values. The episode also touches on personal stories about first cars, automotive nostalgia, and the impact of current market trends on vehicle sales. With humor and camaraderie, the hosts keep the conversation engaging and informative.

Norm Krause, known as 'Mr. Norm', was a pivotal figure in the muscle car era, transforming Grand Spalding Dodge into a powerhouse of performance sales. The episode dives into his legacy, detailing how he tuned factory cars to unleash their true horsepower and created iconic models like the Dart GTS. The hosts also discuss the rare 1965 Dodge Coronet 500, a Mr. Norm car, that will be showcased at AutoRama. With engaging anecdotes and insights into the Mopar world, this episode highlights the blend of history and passion in automotive culture.