In Wheel Time Podcast: Your Go-To Automotive Talk Show

The Torque Wrench Broke And So Did The Warranty

Snap-on may be the headline brand, but it’s not the only way to build a serious mechanic tool setup. We walk through the tool brands professional mechanics reach for when they want strong build quality, fair pricing, and a warranty that actually helps when something breaks. Along the way, we talk about what “premium tools” really means in a working garage, and why availability and easy replacement can matter more than status.We also get honest about the kind of buyer pain that never shows up in a catalog: the lifetime warranty that turns into a dead end. From a torque wrench that won’t lock to the reality of ownership changes and manufacturing shifts, we share why researching warranty process and support is part of smart tool buying. If you’re searching for the best Snap-on alternatives, best mechanic tool brands, or how to build a toolkit on a budget, this segment is built for you.Then we switch gears into pure car culture and driving destinations with seven national hot rod events to put on your calendar, from Goodguys shows and Pigeon Forge to the Woodward Dream Cruise. We close with a detailed 2026 Chevy Equinox EV review, covering trims, styling, interior tech, MPGe efficiency talk, range expectations, and how it stacks up against rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Mustang Mach-E, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. If you enjoyed this mix of tools, road trips, and real-world car reviews, subscribe, share the show with a fellow car person, and leave us a rating and review.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E60 Mar 30, 2026 15 min 32 annotations

Southeast Texas Driving Destinations

Southeast Texas can feel like a straight shot on the map, but it’s packed with stops that turn a simple drive into a full day of stories. We build a listener-friendly route through the Golden Triangle, starting in downtown Beaumont with the Texas Energy Museum for the oil boom history that still shapes American energy and industry. From there we keep it walkable and air-conditioned with the Art Museum of Southeast Texas, then step into a restored 1927 station at the Fire Museum of Texas, capped off by one of the weirdest legit landmarks around: the world’s largest working fire hydrant.Then we head south for more local character, from Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum’s throwback oil-field atmosphere to Port Arthur’s Museum of the Gulf Coast, where the region’s music and sports history shows up in ways you might not expect. Crossing the Rainbow Bridge adds a scenic moment before Orange, where the Stark Museum of Art and the 1894 Stark House deliver culture and architecture in the same block. We wrap the travel talk with Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, a 250-acre wetlands escape that’s perfect if you want birding, trails, and a calmer pace.After the road trip, we go full truck mode with a Ford F-150 Hybrid King Ranch review, including real-world mpg, towing and payload capability, and what BlueCruise hands-free driving can and cannot do.Jeff also breaks down the real reasons capless gas cap design became so common, from emissions control to fewer check-engine headaches. Don closes with a 2026 Ram 1500 Longhorn review, covering the return of the 5.7L Hemi V8 with mild hybrid assist, a standout three-screen cabin, ride comfort, and the price reality of modern “luxury pickups.” If you enjoyed the mix of travel ideas and car talk, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave us a review.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E59 Mar 27, 2026 22 min 34 annotations

Chili Pepper Trophy Day at Tailpipes & Tacos, Beaumont!

Tailpipes and Tacos in Beaumont isn’t just a backdrop for us, it’s the whole point: real car people showing up early, swapping stories, and rolling through like a moving car museum. We’re live at Lupe' Tortilla watching everything from classic Chevy metal to modern muscle, and we hand out the Chili Pepper Trophy awards for Best Hot Rod, Best Classic, and Best Modern Classic. If you love cruise-ins, car shows, and the small details that make a build stand out, you’ll feel like you’re standing right next to us in the lot. Then we shift from the fun to the forces shaping the automotive industry right now. We talk Porsche looking for efficiencies between the Panamera and Taycan, Ineos getting the Grenadier into more hands through Hertz rentals, and Honda’s painful EV timing problem and massive impairment charge. It’s a candid look at how quickly the EV market narrative has changed and why product planning and leadership decisions matter for what ends up in your driveway. We also dig into two wallet-impacting issues: global supply chain risk and dealership pricing. Escalation around the Strait of Hormuz raises shipping insurance and logistics costs for automakers moving key materials and parts, and we connect that to the prices everyone feels. On the buying side, we call out misleading online listing prices, document fees, and add-ons as the FTC tightens rules around advertised pricing. Subscribe for more real-world car talk, share this with a friend who loves cruise-ins, and leave a review if you want more live remotes. What’s the worst surprise fee you’ve ever seen on a car deal?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E58 Mar 26, 2026 32 min 33 annotations

Tailpipes And Tacos Meets A 200 MPH Street Corvette

A 1971 Corvette that “didn’t have enough horsepower” turns into a blown street machine with a 6-71 supercharger and a backstory you can’t make up. We’re live at Tailpipes and Tacos at the Lupe' Tortilla in Beaumont, Texas, where the parking lot is packed with the kind of builds that pull you into conversation even if you planned to “just look around.”Racer and longtime car collector Randy Blackwell joins us to talk about his 200 mph street car, why 1971 was a turning point for factory power, and how he decided to put the muscle back in. Then he drops the line that steals the show: the supercharger was funded by a Rolex sale. From there we get into the deep stuff car people love, funny car roots, decades of drag racing experience, Super Gas 9.90 stories, and what it takes to keep a fast car reliable enough to cruise to a local car show.We also take a detour through performance history with Lingenfelter talk, including a rare Corvette detail that will make any engine nerd lean closer, and we bring it back to the practical side with weekly vehicle recalls you should check.To wrap the hour with some fun, we run through recent sold-car prices, including classics, a restored Toyota Land Cruiser, and a C10 sale that will change what you think “old truck money” looks like.If you like car culture, drag racing stories, Corvette upgrades, and Texas cruise-ins, subscribe to In Wheel Time, share this with a friend, and leave a quick review so more enthusiasts can find the show.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E57 Mar 26, 2026 30 min 32 annotations

A No-Reserve Mecum Bid Turns Setback Into A Dream Convertible

A flood can wipe out a classic car in minutes, but it can also set up a comeback you never saw coming. From the Lupe' Tortilla Tailpipes and Tacos cruise-in in Beaumont, we sit down with Charlie Domain and his white 1968 Chevelle SS convertible, a numbers-matching 396 big block that looks as clean underneath as it does in the sun. Charlie walks us through how he found it, how he cares for it, and why a black-and-white muscle car still stops people mid-conversation at a car show. The best part is the origin story. Charlie lost a Buick Skylark GS to Hurricane Harvey, then took a friend’s advice to get out of the house and head to the Mecum auction. He targeted a no-reserve Chevelle, landed it for $42,000 plus fees, and realized the final paperwork was being signed with a check that matched what he’d just been paid for the flooded car. We also dig into the details that spark real debate in the classic car world: Baldwin decals that hint at dealer-era performance culture, an automatic column-shift setup, optic lighting, and a bench seat mystery that points across the street to Buick. Then we zoom out to everything else car people care about. We run through the racing calendar with NHRA, NASCAR at Darlington, IndyCar, and Formula 1 schedule updates. “This Week in Auto History” connects Ford’s moving assembly line to the explosion of car culture, then tracks big-block milestones and the Clean Air Act’s impact on muscle cars before efficient icons like the Honda Civic took off. We finish with straight automotive news: Honda’s shifting EV plans around the Prologue and a Hyundai engine recall lawsuit that shows how costly recall decisions can get. Subscribe, share this with a fellow car nerd, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What’s the best classic car comeback story you’ve ever seen?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E56 Mar 25, 2026 30 min 33 annotations

A Tire Sensor Can Track You And A V8 Can Spoil You

Your tire pressure monitoring system might be doing more than keeping you safe, and your next pickup truck might be nicer than your living room. We’re coming to you from the Tailpipes and Tacos cruise-in at the Lupe' Tortilla in Beaumont, Texas, where car people turn a Saturday morning into a rolling meet-up full of stories, engines, and the kind of conversations that only happen when the microphones are on and the parking lot is packed. We talk with Sheila May about growing up around the Orange, Texas car scene and how drag racing becomes a family tradition. It starts with a junior dragster found at a swap meet, moves through early passes with Briggs and Stratton power, and turns into heritage racing as parents buy back their own junior dragsters for the next generation. Along the way we laugh about grandkids, pedal cars, and the very real “problem” of online auctions delivering more tiny cars than you have drivers. Then we shift into practical car ownership and automotive technology with Jeff’s Motor Minute: a cybersecurity study suggests TPMS sensors can transmit unencrypted IDs that can be collected by low-cost receivers, raising real questions about privacy and vehicle tracking. We wrap with a detailed 2026 Ram 1500 Longhorn review, including the return of the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with a mild hybrid system, the three-screen interior, ride quality, towing and payload numbers, fuel economy, and pricing in today’s full-size truck market. If you like smart car talk, honest new car reviews, and real stories from real car people, subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a rating or review so more listeners can find us.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E55 Mar 25, 2026 30 min 32 annotations

A Wine-Bought Cadillac Comeback

A Cadillac convertible bought after “quite a bit of wine” sounds like a punchline until you hear what happens next. We kick off from Tailpipes and Tacos in Beaumont, Texas with a 1961 Cadillac story that goes from ratty auction find to TV-ready restoration, then right back into the shop for a drivability-focused rebuild. It’s a candid look at how classic car restoration really works when deadlines, budgets, and “while we’re in there” decisions collide. Then we get hands-on with a Ford F-150 Hybrid King Ranch 4x4 review for anyone shopping a luxury pickup truck that still needs real capability. We break down the 3.5-liter hybrid powertrain (400 hp, 500 lb-ft), the 10-speed automatic, towing and payload numbers, and what fuel economy looks like in the real world. We also talk features that matter day to day, from the quiet cabin and leather comfort to tailgate functionality and driver-assist tech like Ford BlueCruise. To wrap it up, we share upcoming cruise-ins and car shows, plus driving destinations across Southeast Texas: the Texas Energy Museum, Fire Museum of Texas, Spindletop Boomtown Museum, the Museum of the Gulf Coast, the Rainbow Bridge, and Shangri-La Botanical Gardens. We also touch on a major automotive news headline: how US tariffs are adding billions in costs and changing what automakers choose to build here. If you enjoy honest car reviews, local car culture, and road-trip ideas you can use, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review. What vehicle story should we unpack next?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E54 Mar 24, 2026 27 min 34 annotations

Why Community Makes Car Culture Last - Tailpipes & Tacos in Beaumont

Fog, freeway noise, and the sound of classics rolling in one by one, that’s how this live car talk morning starts at the Tailpipes and Tacos cruise-in at Lupe' Tortilla in Beaumont, Texas. We’re set up right off I-10, talking with the people who actually show up early, bring their rides, and keep local car culture alive. Stan Holt joins us with the kind of stories you only get from someone who lives in the drag racing world. We get into racing plans for Belle Rose, Louisiana, what makes a “racer’s track” worth the tow, and the characters and cooking that turn a race weekend into a community. Then it’s off to the garage: his 1955 MGTF purchase that went from “average” to jewel-like with smart fixes, plus bigger builds like a modernized 1957 Ford Fairlane with a Coyote drivetrain and airbags, and a wild 1955 Chevy wagon Super Stock project where engine and transmission choices get debated in real time. We also shift gears with Jeff’s Car Culture segment on gas cap design, capless fuel systems, evaporative emissions, and why a loose cap can trigger a check engine light. Finally, we spotlight Shirley’s Kids, a charity rooted in the drag racing community that helps kids facing financial and health challenges, and we share how a simple donation ties right into the Tailpipes and Tacos experience. If you like car shows, classic cars, restorations, restomods, and straight-up practical automotive advice, subscribe, share this with a fellow car person, and leave a review so more listeners can find us.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E53 Mar 23, 2026 33 min 32 annotations

From Roller Dogs To Road Tests With The Lexus NX And Mustang GT

Gas station hot dogs and performance cars sound like an odd pairing until you’ve done enough road trips to know they belong together. We start with a no-nonsense ranking of seven of the best gas station hot dogs in America, breaking down which convenience store chains actually deliver the kind of quick, low-cost bite that keeps a long drive on track. From topping bars to value combos, we talk about what makes a roller-grill classic worth your money and which stops are easiest to find when you’re crossing state lines. Next, we shift gears into a practical luxury SUV review of the 2026 Lexus NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid. We get into trim overload, exterior styling, cabin comfort, cargo space, and the tech that stands out, especially the big 14-inch center screen. We also call out what annoys us in daily use, like steering wheel controls that hide the info you need right when you’re trying to use them. And we keep it real about plug-in hybrid ownership: the efficiency numbers look great if you charge, but not everyone will. Pricing and competitors come up too, because value matters even in the premium segment. To round it out, we spotlight seven underrated U.S. racetracks worth visiting, then bring the fun home with a review of the 2025 Ford Mustang GT Convertible. We talk V8 power, real fuel economy, ride and handling, noise, and how fast options can push the sticker into eye-watering territory. If you like road trip food, car reviews, and racing culture, hit play, subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave us a review with your pick for the best road trip stop.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E52 Mar 20, 2026 21 min 31 annotations

A Monkey Crashed Our Kia Review

The best part of doing a live car show from a mega meet is that the day keeps changing under your feet, and the conversation goes with it. We’re set up at Team Gillman with cars rolling in and out, then we kick things off with a straight-shooting review of the 2025 Ford Mustang GT Convertible. We dig into what the GT Premium feels like as a real daily driver, from the lined cloth top and cabin tech to the stiffer performance ride, tire noise, and the big headline numbers: a 5.0-liter V8 with 480 horsepower and an as-tested price that can rocket into the $70K range.Then Mike brings a list that’s made for anyone who collects memories instead of merch: seven underrated U.S. racetracks worth visiting. We talk Road America, VIR, Laguna Seca, Sebring, Mid-Ohio, Barber, and Road Atlanta, with a focus on what makes a track worth the trip: elevation, access, sightlines, and that gritty old-school atmosphere you can’t fake.The live setting brings surprises too, including a quick chat with Ethan, a young car photographer and videographer working to grow his crew through events and consistency. We also squeeze in a 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige AWD review, then pivot to our Hemmings sold car price game and the auto news you can use, including an FTC warning aimed at misleading dealership advertised prices and required fees. If you care about cars, car buying, car culture, and where the industry is heading, this one stays moving. Subscribe, share the episode with a car friend, and leave us a review. What was the biggest surprise for you?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E51 Mar 19, 2026 60 min 34 annotations

You Can Grow Car Culture By Showing Up

Houston car culture is hiding in plain sight, and once you know where to look, your weekends fill up fast. We’re set up at the Mega Meat Cruise In and we’re talking with the people who connect the dots across the city, from meet promoters to motorcycle crews, plus the small details that keep a cruise-in fun instead of chaotic.First up, we hang with Omar from HTXCars.com, a new Houston-focused car meet and car show platform built to list events across Houston, Stafford, Richmond, Sugar Land, and beyond. He explains why a central calendar matters, how short recaps and live streams help people discover new spots, and why the real win is meeting owners and families out enjoying the scene together. We also talk about the seasonal reality of Texas events: spring is perfect, summer pushes meets into the night, and venues get cautious when takeovers ruin trust.Then we switch to two wheels with Jonathan from Only The Few Bike Crew out of Katy. We get into group ride culture, community-focused events, and beginner-friendly motorcycle advice, including why 300cc to 400cc bikes are a smart start, what to know about dealerships versus marketplace buys, and how to think about mods and value. We also keep it real on safety, from helmets to the risks you can’t ignore.If you’re looking for Houston car meets, Tailpipes And Tacos cruise-ins, and the people who make these events worth showing up for, hit play, then subscribe, share with a friend, and leave us a review so more local car fans can find the show.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E49 Mar 18, 2026 28 min 27 annotations

Houston’S DIY Garage Revolution

A car meet is fun. A place to actually work on your car without fighting apartment rules, HOA complaints, or a garage full of storage is the part most of us are missing. Broadcasting from the Team Gillman Mega Meet, we start with a fast, useful scan of current automotive recalls, including a Kumho tire issue and a stack of vehicle recalls that touch everything from windshield wipers to rear view cameras and fuel delivery. If you have been putting off checking your VIN, this is your nudge to hit safercar.gov and confirm your car is up to date.Then we sit down with IK from Apex Garage, a new DIY garage near Spring designed for Houston car enthusiasts, mobile mechanics, and first timers who want to learn. We talk lifts, tools, repair guides, a mechanic on standby, and how hourly and daily bay rentals can make real maintenance affordable again as labor rates climb. We also get into the community angle: memberships, a sim racing lounge, watch parties for F1, IndyCar, and NASCAR, plus plans for group track days across road courses and drag strips.Finally, Subaru fans get a treat. Jose Martinez walks us through his WRX STI builds, including a bug eye era car with a WRC inspired look and a serious power setup. We dig into E85 flex fuel tuning, ethanol content monitoring you can check on your phone, anti lag, two step, and why a six speed swap is the next big move when you outgrow a five speed transmission.If you’re into Houston car culture, DIY auto repair, Subaru WRX STI mods, E85 flex fuel, or track day planning, hit play, then subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review. What project would you tackle first if you had a lift and a full tool wall waiting for you?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E48 Mar 17, 2026 32 min 33 annotations

Mega Meet Car Talk!

A live car meet is supposed to be simple: show up, walk the rows, talk cars. But once we set up at the Team Gillman Mega Meet in Houston, the conversation quickly turns into the stuff drivers actually wrestle with, from new Texas DMV vehicle registration photo ID requirements to the way those rules change the buying process for everyday people.We also dig into a serious headline: CarMax agreeing to restitution and penalties tied to repossessions involving service members, plus what that says about compliance in auto finance. Jeff’s Motor Minute follows with a practical warning for owners of several 2025 to 2026 GM models as an updated service bulletin links engine ticking noise to manufacturing debris in the valve lash adjuster. If you’re the type who hears one new sound and instantly turns the radio down, you’ll relate.Then we get into the fun and the shopping decisions. Don reviews the 2026 Lexus NX 450h+ Luxury AWD, a plug-in hybrid compact luxury SUV with a standout 14-inch screen, strong fit and finish, and a price that may push you toward lower trims. We also meet Sam Medina from Shaking Auto Club, a family-oriented group built around honoring a lost brother and raising support for kids with cancer, with a clear stance against street takeover behavior. Finally, we lighten it up with a road trip-ready list of the seven best gas station hot dogs in America, a quick racing calendar check-in (IndyCar, F1, NASCAR, NHRA), and a punchy round of automotive history.Subscribe for more honest car reviews and real car culture, share this with a fellow car person, and leave a review. What’s your must-stop gas station food on a long drive?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E47 Mar 16, 2026 60 min 31 annotations

When Trucks, History, And Market Shifts Collide

Looking for an honest truck review with real numbers and a big-picture take on where the market’s heading? We put the 2025 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 4x4 through its paces and share what matters: towing capacity, payload, highway manners, and the surprising value packed into a lower-trim workhorse. The 5.0L V8 and 10-speed deliver confident power and direct steering, while the standard 12-inch screen, LED lighting, and practical 60/40 rear seat storage make daily life easier. We dig into fuel economy, pricing that ranges from budget-friendly to nicely equipped, and how the STX compares to Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Chevy Silverado. Then we tee up a future compare with the F-150 King Ranch hybrid to show how far the lineup stretches.We also tell a one-of-a-kind story from GM’s Janesville days: a tiny bar so close to the assembly plant that workers hopped a fence for lunch beers. It outlasted the factory before redevelopment finally erased it, making space for a proposed $8B data center. It’s a vivid look at how car culture shapes communities—and how those spaces evolve.Market reality gets equal airtime. EV registrations slipped for the first time in years, and we unpack why: price sensitivity, incentive changes, and charging friction that push mainstream buyers toward hybrids. We talk brand-by-brand turbulence, Tesla’s smaller dip, Cadillac’s surprising pop from a low base, and Toyota’s patient strategy that prizes reliability, hybrids, and measured rollouts. Plus, a rapid-fire racing calendar—NHRA in Gainesville, F1 drama over energy-saving race formats, IndyCar on a tight oval, and NASCAR weekend viewing—so your motorsports schedule is set.If you care about trucks, performance, reliability, and the shifting auto landscape, this one connects the dots with numbers, stories, and straight talk. Hit play, then subscribe, share with a fellow gearhead, and leave a quick review with your take: are you leaning V8, hybrid, or EV next?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk! Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, TexasDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E46 Mar 13, 2026 30 min 9 annotations

Bring Your Yugo, Your Dragster, Or Your Dad’s GTO, Just Don’t Bring Traction Control

Ready to trade street chaos for time slips and trophies? We sit down with the Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge (TMCCC) to unpack how bracket racing turns every kind of car—and every kind of driver—into a contender. From bone-stock commuters and diesel workhorses to full-on dragsters, the series builds a fair fight around consistency, reaction times, and smart dialing. If you can pass tech, you can stage, and the family-friendly vibe means you’ll head home by mid-afternoon with a few runs, a grin, and maybe a new obsession.TMCCC president Scott Stregel walks us through the series’ footprint across Texas and into Oklahoma, explaining why most classes run the eighth mile while select street categories stretch to the quarter at tracks like Ennis and Thunder Valley. He also shares a big step forward: a dedicated EV class. We dig into what that means for safety, fire suppression, and the surprising advantage electric cars bring in bracket consistency. The message is clear—racing has room for the future, and structure makes it safer for everyone.Driver Yolanda Vasquez brings the heart of the show with her story: growing up at the strip with her dad’s ’68 GTO, learning the tree, and now running a Challenger Scat Pack to a 7.70 eighth. She proves you don’t need a trailer queen to win; you need reps, focus, and a love for the craft. We round it out with practicals: how $40 gets you at least three passes, how to join a team or start one, where to find the schedule and rules at tmccc.org, and why women now account for a remarkable slice of the grid. Plus, we drop a fresh review of the 2026 Mazda 3 sedan—powerful, polished, but ready for a tech refresh—and touch on a shake-up in F1 broadcast coverage that U.S. fans will notice.If you’re curious about getting off the street and onto the strip, this is your roadmap. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a legal outlet for speed, and leave a review telling us what you’d bring to the tree.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E45 Mar 12, 2026 30 min 32 annotations

What Makes A Great Truck And A Great Drive, From Highways To Parking Lots

Want a truck that works hard without the luxury price tag? We take the 2025 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 4x4 on real roads to see how its 5.0-liter V8, 10-speed automatic, and direct steering stack up against the high-trim hype. With 12,700 lbs of towing, 1,685 lbs of payload, and a standard 12-inch center screen, this “lower” trim still brings serious muscle and everyday comfort. We break down the maze of trims, cabs, beds, and engines, then map the pricing landscape against Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Chevy Silverado to pinpoint where the value truly lives.From there, we trade spec sheets for scenery with five family-ready spring break road trips. Base out of Flagstaff for a Grand Canyon loop with Sedona red rocks and Route 66 neon, or chase ocean air on California’s Pacific Coast Highway with Monterey and Santa Cruz stops. Prefer forests and wildlife? The Great Smoky Mountains deliver waterfall pullouts, easy hikes, and a Cades Cove loop with deer and black bear sightings. Desert dreamers get a cooler-season window into Utah’s Mighty Five—Zion, Bryce, and Arches—where short hikes lead to vast views. And if nostalgia calls, string together Route 66 segments for vintage motels, classic diners, and Americana in motion.We also pull back the curtain on parking lot design. Why do angled spaces feel easier? When does perpendicular packing backfire? We explain 30, 45, and 60-degree tradeoffs, one-way flow, door clearance, and ADA considerations so you can pick smarter spots and keep your doors ding-free. Finally, we put the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus under the microscope. With 227 hp, 310 lb-ft, upscale materials, and a compact footprint, it’s a lively daily driver—though a small trunk opening and fussy infotainment hold it back. We compare it with Civic, Corolla, and Elantra to help you choose the right compact for your roads.If this helped you sort your next truck or plan a better road trip, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a quick review—what would you drive first, the F-150 STX or the Mazda 3?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E44 Mar 11, 2026 19 min 34 annotations

We Break Down Recalls, Auctions, And Industry Shakeups So You Know What Matters

Big recalls, bigger opinions, and a few jaw-dropping auction results—this one moves fast. We kick off with a clear rundown of safety alerts you should actually act on: Ford’s 1.74 million-vehicle rearview camera faults, Kia seat back concerns, and Subaru fuel system warnings. You’ll hear exactly why these glitches matter on real roads, and the one step every owner should take right now to protect their family and their wallet.Then we turn the studio into a live-price arena and test our guesses against the hammer: a clean 2009 Corvette, a polarizing-yet-lovely 2006 Cadillac XLR, a modified 1956 Corvette, a Boss 302-era 2011 Mustang, a decal-wearing ’69 Chevelle, and a massive 1969 Mercury Marquis convertible. The takeaways are practical: documentation beats decals, originality still carries weight, and condition and story can lift even the forgotten full-size cruisers. If you’re shopping, selling, or just daydreaming, these real numbers will reset your expectations.Our deep dive zeroes in on the industry’s uneasy heartbeat: CEO changes, boardroom bets, and what happens when automakers look to tech and luxury sectors for leadership. We talk Toyota, Nissan, Stellantis, and Renault to show how EV timelines, labor pressure, and aggressive Chinese competition are reshaping plans. Layer in global tension pushing fuel futures up and you can see why pricing, incentives, and product cadence feel twitchy. To balance the boardroom with the grandstands, we spotlight F1’s new American flavor—Cadillac’s livery play and Ford’s Red Bull engine partnership—and how motorsport storytelling feeds brand identity right back into the showroom.We round things out with a packed Texas events calendar, from International Women’s Day meetups to small-town stampedes and charity cruise-ins. Bring the ride, meet your people, and swap real-world fixes—because the most valuable upgrade is knowledge you can use today. If you enjoyed the show, follow, rate, and share it with a friend who loves cars as much as you do. Got a hot take or a question? Drop us a note and join the conversation.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E43 Mar 10, 2026 29 min 32 annotations

No, You Don’t Need Power Steering On An MGB

What keeps a classic car honest isn’t a fresh coat of paint—it’s the quiet, careful work that makes it start, steer, and stop like it should. We sit down with Tim Winton, founder of Cambrian Classics in West Wales, to unpack the craft of mechanical stewardship: how a small, dedicated team brings MGs, Triumphs, Austin‑Healeys, Alfas, and air‑cooled VWs back from the shed to the street. Tim shares the overlooked checks that transform the driving experience—like why an MGB’s steering rack must be oil‑filled—and how correct tire pressures, proper lubrication, and smart carb and ignition tuning often beat expensive “upgrades.”Tim’s journey from the modern motor trade to a thriving classic workshop reveals what really builds trust: consistent results and a feel for how these machines were meant to behave. We talk MG identity in 2026, the difference between bodywork makeovers and true recommissioning, and why variety—from a TR5 to a rare Humber Hawk—keeps the craft sharp. You’ll hear how long‑stored cars return to life step‑by‑step, and why experience across “a hundred variations on a theme” helps diagnose issues by sound and feel alone.We broaden the lens with two practical segments for everyday drivers and road‑trippers. First, a clear look at parking space design—30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° layouts—how aisle widths and one‑way flow affect access, safety, and door clearance, and why perpendicular slots can be the worst for usability. Then we map five spring break road trips across the United States: the Grand Canyon loop from Flagstaff, California’s Pacific Coast Highway, the Great Smoky Mountains, Utah’s Mighty Five, and the timeless pull of Route 66. Whether you drive a well‑loved MG or a modern SUV, you’ll leave with actionable tips and fresh ideas for the next journey.If this mix of hands‑on wisdom and road inspiration hit the mark, follow the show, share it with a car‑loving friend, and leave a quick review so more enthusiasts can find us.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E42 Mar 09, 2026 30 min 31 annotations

Ford Expedition King Ranch and the Mustang Frunk!

Big SUVs aren’t supposed to feel nimble—yet our week with the 2025 Ford Expedition King Ranch told a different story. We break down what Ford changed for the new generation, from the tasteful exterior touches to a cabin that jumps a class with Mesa Del Rio leather, a sprawling 24-inch driver display, and a crisp 13.2-inch touchscreen. Add second-row captain’s chairs, a power-folding third row, B&O Unleashed audio, and BlueCruise with Co‑Pilot360 2.0, and you’ve got a road-trip rig that treats the whole crew well without turning every maneuver into a chore.Under the hood, the 3.5L twin-turbo V6 and 10‑speed automatic deliver confident acceleration and serious towing capability—up to 9,600 pounds when properly equipped. We share real-world fuel economy and why the Expedition’s steering feel and turning radius surprised us more than the spec sheet suggested. Then we zoom out to the buying decision: where the Expedition sits on price across trims, and how it stacks up against the Chevy Tahoe, Toyota Sequoia hybrid, and Nissan Armada. If you’re shopping full-size three-row SUVs, these head-to-head details will save you time and test drives.We also get candid about the messier side of modern vehicles: software reliability. From Bluetooth dropouts and lackluster OTA updates to subscription fatigue, we unpack why the “software-defined vehicle” promise keeps tripping over basics. And for EV fans, we discuss Ford’s Mustang Mach‑E moving the frunk to the options list to make room for a larger heat pump—proof that packaging choices have real-world trade-offs. To round things out, we share Houston-area cruise-ins and shows, plus where to watch our live stream and catch the podcast on your favorite platform.If you enjoy smart car talk without the fluff, hit follow and share this episode with a friend who’s SUV shopping. Leave a quick review to tell us where the Expedition lands on your shortlist and what tech actually matters on your daily drive.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E41 Mar 06, 2026 30 min 37 annotations

Mega Meet Madness At Team Gilman AutoPlex!

Want a car meet that feels like a festival and functions like a precision machine? We sit down with Gus Flores of The CarMeet Network to unpack how a free mega show can welcome thousands, run smoothly, and still feel personal. Gus shares the core idea—vibe, connect, grow—and how smart logistics, clear parking sections, and real community-building help people find purpose as much as power. From hot rods to Hondas, WRX clubs to classic Corvette owners, the plan is simple: everyone belongs, and the layout makes every build shine.We break down the big details at Team Gilman’s north complex: a 10 a.m.–2 p.m. schedule, recommended preregistration that guarantees your spot, and a live three-hour broadcast from the lot. Then the headline-grabber: six vehicles, two from each store, raffled so winners can buy for $1,000 plus TTL. You must be 18, licensed, present, and registered to enter. It’s a bold way to give back and put real keys in real hands, and it’s already lighting up club chats across Subaru, Mazda, Acura, and beyond. Add a DJ, street-style dogs and burgers from Sasa Burgers, and the electricity of builders swapping stories, and you’ve got a meet with momentum.We also zoom out to the long game of ownership. Which brands are most likely to hit 250,000 miles? Toyota and Lexus lead with deliberate engineering and incremental updates, Honda follows with proven powertrains, and Chevy shows up strong via Suburban and Silverado. We contrast that with RAM and Jeep’s long-term reliability struggles and Tesla’s older-model growing pains—practical takeaways for enthusiasts choosing platforms to daily, mod, and keep. To round it out, we map five bucket-list concours events—Amelia Island, Greenwich, Cincinnati, Pebble Beach, and Ironstone—so you can plan a year long show season that spans grassroots grit and world-class elegance.Bring your ride, your crew, and your appetite. Preregister to lock your spot, tune into the live show on-site, and throw your name in the hat for that $1,000 car opportunity. If this episode sparks a plan, share it with your club, hit follow, and leave a quick review so more enthusiasts can find the show.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E40 Mar 05, 2026 30 min 32 annotations

The King Ranch, Reliable Cars, Concours Destinations, and the Corolla Cross....

Big SUVs don’t have to drive like buses. We put the 2025 Ford Expedition King Ranch through a real week of miles and came away surprised by the steering precision, quiet ride, and how easily the cabin tech fades into the background so you can actually enjoy the drive. From the panoramic roof and bronze 22-inch wheels to a 24-inch driver display and 13.2-inch touchscreen, this full-size three-row blends comfort with capability, towing up to 9,600 pounds while returning honest, real-world fuel economy.We break down what matters for buyers: how BlueCruise and Co-Pilot360 2.0 help on long stints, how the B&O Unleashed 22-speaker audio fills the cabin, and why the second-row captain’s chairs and power-folding third row make life easier for families. Then we talk money and matchups. The Expedition’s pricing strategy ranges from a value-forward Active trim to the fully loaded King Ranch tested here, so cross-shopping the Chevy Tahoe, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia is essential. We explain who wins on base price, where hybrids shift the math, and why the Expedition’s driving dynamics could be the tiebreaker.Durability fans get a deep dive into longevity. We outline why Toyota and Lexus dominate 250,000-mile lists, how Honda’s practical engineering earns consistent high-mile results, and where Chevrolet proves its mettle with Suburban and Silverado. We also call out the pain points that keep RAM and Jeep from climbing the charts and explore why Tesla’s older models struggle in used reliability rankings even as newer ones improve.To round out the enthusiast calendar, we map five standout concours events—from The Amelia and Greenwich to Cincinnati, Pebble Beach, and Ironstone—so you can plan your year around the cars that made history. Finally we look at the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross, one of those SUVs that just makes sense. It’s compact enough for tight parking spots but roomy enough for groceries, road trips, or the daily commute. The hybrid option boosts fuel economy, the ride is smooth and quiet, and the tech is easy to use. It’s practical, affordable, and ready for everyday life without drama. If you love smart car shopping, long-haul ownership tips, and a little dream-garage inspiration, you’re in the right place. Hit folBe sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E39 Mar 04, 2026 20 min 39 annotations

Park It Outside And Pray: Subaru’s Fiery Oops?

A fuel tank you shouldn’t fill. Trailer brakes that might not listen when you need them most. We start with straight talk on the week’s biggest recalls—Subaru’s hybrid fire risk and Ford’s 4.3 million-vehicle safety sweep—so you know exactly what to check, how to park, and when to expect a real fix. We cut through the noise around “over-the-air updates,” explain why module communication matters for lights and braking, and outline smart steps to protect your family and your tow.From there, we take you inside the market’s mood with our “guess what it sold for” tour through Hemmings. A C3 Corvette punching to $42K, a C4 convertible slipping under $14K, a clean 442 stretching into the mid-twenties, and a ’68 Bronco commanding $52.5K reveal what buyers are rewarding right now: originality, presentation, and lifestyle appeal. We also spotlight a sleeper value—a straight ’85 GMC 2500 with dog-dish charm—and a ’73 BMW 3.0 CS that proves design never goes out of style. If you’re hunting a classic, we share the questions and documents that separate a good story from a good buy.We keep the engine warm with a quick spin through the racing slate—NASCAR at COTA, IndyCar in St. Petersburg, NHRA’s Gatornationals on deck, and F1 launching in Australia—plus a lively lap through auto history, from Rudolf Diesel’s patent to the Watson Roadster and Danica Patrick’s breakthrough. Then we zoom out to the business lane: EV losses squeezing profit sharing at Stellantis, the optics of rising CEO compensation, and why dealership tax schemes land in court. It’s a full-spectrum look at safety, value, and culture for people who live cars, drive daily, or just love a good story on wheels.Hit play, subscribe, and share with a friend who’s eyeing a classic or towing this weekend. Drop us a review with your pick: Bronco, 3.0 CS, or 442—what’s the smartest buy right now?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E38 Mar 03, 2026 29 min 49 annotations

Rodeo Hats, Road Trips, And Hybrids? Yee Haw!

Rodeo hats on, sleeves rolled up, and the garage door wide open—this one blends street-level car culture with the blunt truth about where the auto industry stands. We lay out why major automakers posted eye-popping EV write-downs and what that means for real buyers who just want reliability, value, and a car that fits their life. The takeaway is simple but powerful: the future isn’t either-or. Hybrids, EVs, and tried-and-true ICE models will share the road, and smart shoppers can use that variety to their advantage.We map the season ahead—from the Team Gillman Mega Meet to Tailpipes and Tacos—and share a practical spring prep checklist you can tackle this weekend. Wash and decontaminate the paint, refresh trim, and give that K&N filter a proper clean and dry before a light re-oil to keep sensors happy. We also flag a surprising road-trip stat: a 648-mile stretch with no public restrooms. Planning matters, whether you’re managing bathroom breaks, plotting charging stops, or just making sure the kids don’t hit meltdown mile. Good prep turns long hauls into easy wins.Our test drive of the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid XSE shows why sensible can still feel special. The two-tone look is sharp, the cabin is simple to live with, and the fuel economy makes daily driving painless. AWD and a refined ride help in bad weather, while pricing stays competitive against the Kia Niro and Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. Cargo with the rear seats up is tight and the CVT won’t thrill, but the balance of comfort, efficiency, and price lands in the sweet spot for commuters and small families.We wrap with quick hits from the racing world, including the Andretti-linked Cadillac chassis naming, and a clear-eyed view of how policy and pricing shape demand. If you care about real ownership costs, weekend shows, and the next car that earns your driveway, you’ll find the signal here without the noise. Subscribe, share with a friend who’s car-curious, and drop a review telling us what you’re driving to your next cruise-in.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E37 Mar 02, 2026 30 min 38 annotations

Buttons Beat Screens

Touch a screen or tap a button? We take you straight into the dashboard debate reshaping car design as Euro NCAP updates its safety protocols to favor physical controls for core functions like turn signals, wipers, hazards, the horn, and SOS. We unpack why tactile interfaces reduce glance time, how human factors drive safer choices at highway speeds, and where minimalist interiors hit their limits when real drivers need fast, error-proof inputs.From Europe’s new rating criteria to China’s proposed rules mandating fixed buttons with minimum sizes, the global tide is turning. We explore how major brands are responding: Volkswagen restoring knobs and switches after admitting the all-touch pivot went too far, Mercedes replacing fussy haptics with rockers and rollers, Hyundai keeping high-frequency hardware to lower stress, Tesla reportedly reviving turn signal stalks, and BMW balancing sweeping displays with dedicated safety buttons. It’s not anti-tech; it’s pro-context—screens for setup and infotainment, hardware for what you must hit without looking.We widen the lens with a quick lap through the racing calendar and a timely tour of auto history, showing how innovation thrives within clear rules. Then we connect the dots to today’s EV market reset, with carmakers writing down big bets as adoption slows. The throughline is simple: design that honors human realities wins. Less menu-diving, more muscle memory. Fewer taps, more trust.If you care about smarter car interfaces, safer roads, and technology that serves drivers—not the other way around—this episode is your roadmap. Listen, subscribe for more honest car talk, and leave a review with your take: buttons back, or screens all the way?Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E36 Feb 27, 2026 29 min 33 annotations

Cars, Tacos, And A Secret Drive-In Movie?

Craving a road trip that feels like a rolling car show with heart? We map out the Hot Rod Tour of Texas with organizers Bobby and Sabra Sparkman and dig into why this hill country run sells out fast, brings a symphony to the town square, and caps the weekend with a secret drive-in feature on the biggest screen at Stars and Stripes. From the free Thursday night kickoff in downtown Victoria to carefully scouted stops that can handle 350 cars, you’ll hear how the team balances logistics, safety, and pure fun.We share what registration includes—driver and passenger shirts, two catered meals, and venue access—and why Eventbrite helps keep scammers away. The route heads north through the hill country with a Texas history stop at a restored fort, quick time at a beloved New Braunfels shop, and awards at the Luckenbach post office. Hotels in Victoria, New Braunfels, and Fredericksburg filled fast, so we offer tips on booking and why planning early matters. Along the way, we spotlight the culture that makes this tour special: teens piloting with grandparents, builders unveiling progress, Sabra’s hand-made caps selling out, and the Cobars returning to play beneath vintage aircraft.We also widen the lens. Bobby’s crew supports car culture year-round with city shows, festival events, and cruises that keep people driving rather than parking. Then we switch gears for Motor Minute and tackle planned obsolescence—myth or real strategy—and close with a frank review of the Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid calligraphy AWD, covering design, mileage, and everyday comfort.Spots are already about 75 percent full. Join the ride, invite your co-pilot, and get your registration in before the last weekend of April sneaks up. If you enjoy this show, tap follow, share it with your car club, and leave a quick review so more drivers can find us.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at [email protected]

S2026E35 Feb 26, 2026 31 min 31 annotations