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Don Swier And Bill Magnusson

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Cars The PodcastCars The PodcastWhy Japanese, American and European cars evolved so differently. $8,000 per month ownership cost? Why homes don't compare to vehicles. 2-liter Ferrari?Enjoying cars doesn't require financial hardship. Memories, events and people matter more than metal. Why did Japan make 660cc Kei Cars for their own market while America offered 6500cc V8 entry level sedans? Why did Ferrari make a 2-liter version of the 308GTS?    2025-06-0121 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRebroadcast: 5-year anniversary. Unintentional damage. Marital problems. $940k decision? Fatality rates by model. $1.98 part + 7 labor hours!Fatality rates vary widely among different classes of car. Lowering your expectations can yield an extra million dollars in a few decades. Bill's 7 hour job to replace a $1.98 part: common nowadays. We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com  Questions? Criticisms? We can take it! We'd love your rating and/or review at Apple Podcasts. 2025-05-0130 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastNo payments or debt is priority. Best car?? Car industry is world's most disruptive. Service bill includes costs you might not realize shop is incurring. Toyota dethrones Ford F150 with RAV4?Alix Brothers puts Auto Industry at #1 for disruption this year. Lead time for new plants is 5 years....is DC aware of that? Leno buys cars that impress him, not the Hoi polloi. Reasons why small CUVs like RAV4 & Rogue have stolen sales crowns worldwide. Jeep Cherokee OTA takeover a decade ago still has ripples today,2025-04-1429 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRebroadcast: Toyota not perfect. Subaru CR darling. Don't lose focus when buying. Tesla pushing envelope.Listeners from Djibouti to Iceland to Jakarta: Bill's customer squeezing every mile & dollar from aging Sienna, but even Toyota can have teething problems with new engine. Subaru slow evolution of same platform scores a Conumer Reports #1 reliability rank. A cheap used car won't fundamentally worsen your life, but a cheap neighborhood will. Get a pre-purchase inspection tp avoid expen$$ive hidden problems. Corrections? Rant? Raves? Topic ideas you'd like to hear? ...send 'em all our way to:  CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2025-04-0531 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRebroadcast: Japan trip. Ups & downs of owning business. Honda, Suzuki, Nissan & Yamaha. When to give up DIY & see a mechanic.Bill getting back to form after Europe trip. Don's trip to Japan for family and visiting Daikoku, Honda, Suzuki, Nissan & Yamaha: pragmatism & perfection on display. When is it best to quit a DIY procedure and visit a real technician? We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com  Rant, Rave or just say hello!2025-01-3135 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastToyota not perfect. Subaru CR darling. Don't lose focus when buying. Tesla pushing envelope for other OEMs. Hyundai & KIa engines.Listeners from Djibouti to Jakarta. Bill's customer squeezing every mile from reliable Sienna, but even Toyota can have teething problems with new engine. Lesson for buyers? Subaru slow evolution of same platform scores Consumer Reports #1 reliability rank. A cheap used car won't fundamentally worsen your life, but a cheap neighborhood will. Get a pre-purchase inspection to avoid expen$$ive hidden problems. Corrections? Rants? Raves? .....doesn't matter! We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2025-01-0131 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastSensor(y) overload. Toyota success path. Harley V-twin as generator? Tesla opens network to more OEMs.Bill sees the unintended consequences of relying on sensors. Chinese parts and cars infiltrating. Scout blazes trail with ICE generator option, and 80% opt for it. Toyota rocky road to success today. Could a revvy, loud, lopey V-twin serve as generator in a roadster to instill soul and emotion?2024-11-2429 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRebroadcast: Don't let dealers run up your budget. Needs vs wants. Seek a good mechanic's advice. Where journalists misread buyers. Upgrades can bite you years down the road.Dealers are eager to maximize what you "qualify for"; That is not your objective. An experienced mechanic is worth consulting before a car purchase. An upgrade can shock you later with high replacement costs.2024-10-0128 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastJapan 2024 trip. Daikoku, Honda & Suzuki. Pragmatic, weird, funky cars. When to take a DIY project to a pro?Bill getting back to form after European week away from shop. Don's trip to Japan's favorite car meetup spot in Yokohama.  Simply be being practical & pragmatic, Japan stands in contrast to America's overly indulgent car market. When should you tackle a repair yourself vs when to call an expert. We love to hear from listeners! Comments, critiques & corrections welcomed. CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2024-08-2235 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBill's Euro trip - Tesla making inroads. Different Horses for Different Courses. Warranties? House always wins! Maintaining is cheaper than ignoring.Bill's impressions from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, France & UK car scene. Why differing uses dictate car and energy types in America. Warranties profit from irrational fear. We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com  comments, sugggestions, corrections!2024-08-1727 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRebroadcast: Bill's career advice. DeLorean snowcat trip. Stellantis layoffs. GM OnStar tracking customers without permission?Guidance for those curious about automotive careers. OEM Satellite tracking without permission? Layoffs at Dodge Ram Jeep Chrysler.2024-06-3035 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRunning costs electric vs petrol. Japan slow to adopt EV: reasons? New & used car prices fell 4%. Don't let dealers push you into their inventory - car guys don't get duped. 25 year import law. A Honda made by GM?Real car guys are like real estate investors - savvy, not impulsive. Actual running costs for EV vs petrol in the Pacific Northwest using residential electricity. Japan is only 2% EV. Pragmatism? Honda Prologue a true Honda?2024-04-2033 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBill's career advice. DeLorean snowcat trip. Reckless and senseless Audi tragedy. RAM and Jeep cutbacks. Ford Triton part scarcity. GM OnStar suit.Bill's guidance for those curious about automotive careers. Local families rocked by senseless abuse of traffic laws. Muscle cars banned from meets in Texas. OnStar was caught tracking GM drivers allegedly without permission. Uncertain future leads to layoffs at Stellantis. We love to hear from you! Suggestions, topic ideas and feedback: CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2024-03-2535 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastMechanics don't have a crystal ball. New cars are not immune to failure. Car inventories are up - temporary? EVs plateaued in their strongest US market - permanent? Car of the Week - Mitsubishi Pajero MiniYour mechanic can spot potential problems, but many issues with cars are entirely unpredictable. Interest rates, inflation and production have boosted inventories. How long will it last, and how will prices react? Multiple paths to make EVs palatable - Tesla seems to have a solution. Do Americans rebel when a radical change is imposed upon their lifestyle?2023-08-2631 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastJapan visit. Glacier camping trip. Volt and Silverado lowball offers. RV build quality. Crazy Tokyo cars. Toyota museum. Shelby Terlingua Mustang.Bill recounts camping trip to Glacier NP; more makeshift RV repairs demanded. Don was treated to amazing hospitality in Japan. Toyota's own museum gives much credit to other OEMs. Japanese practicality takes long-term, strategic approach to electrification. Can US learn pragmatism, too? Cool Mustang Terlingua tribute spotted locally.2023-08-1226 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBeware forum and YouTube advice. Diagnosis is paramount. Jeep Forward control van idea? Tesla ponders advertising. EV charging confusion.Bill's decades of ASE Tech experience meets keyboard warriors online who suggest faulty fixes. Elon Musk hints at reversing course on his distaste for advertising: extortion? Industry is unclear about EV charging and Levels 1,2 & 3. Jeep FC adventure van proposal. Constant mid-year updates affect repairs.2023-06-2433 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRam REV and Toyota Prime have the magic formula for the future? GM Volt was accidentally discovered by towing a generator behind an EV? Prioritize repairs to maximize dollars.RAM and Toyota's adherence to ICE may pay dividends as they electrify their fleets. Did GM accidentally invent Voltec by towing a generator behind an EV1? Don't let outdated notions and terminology cost you more as you maintain your vehicle. New concerns and issues have replaced once-common problems of the past. No need to fix the entire laundry list of repairs your shop provides you. We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2023-03-0634 minCars The PodcastCars The Podcast(audio fix) California Dreamin'. Stranded from delayed maintenance. Tesla price war rocks entire car industry. Corvette ingenuity. Toyota rekindles Prius.Deferred maintenance can cost you time, money and undue wear. Examples galore. Tesla uses their thick margins to cut prices and apply pressure to entire industry. Bill discovers manic drivers exist elsewhere. Don discovers being frugal can be dumb. Chevrolet applies some lessons from Volt to new E-Ray AWD. Don and Bill love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com  2023-02-0528 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCalifornia Dreamin'. Stranded from delayed maintenance. Tesla launches price war and rattles industry. Corvette E-Ray. Toyota Hybrid and PHEV debuts. Ode to CarTalkDon't let delayed maintenance deflate your wallet, damage your car and waste your precious time. Bill discovers that manic drivers exist elsewhere. Elon Musk upends the entire new & used market with price cuts. Is this defensive, or does he smell blood in the water? Toyota eager to show that HEV and PHEV are greener than BEV with their new Prius. We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com  We appreciate opinions, corrections and critiques.2023-01-3128 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCalifornia Dreamin'. Stranded by delayed maintenance. Tesla launches price war and stock jumps! Toyota drops bombshell to regain glory. PHEV greener than BEV? Corvette E-Ray showcase hybrid?Bill discovers manic driving exists elsewhere. Don discovers that delaying maintenance creates hassle. Elon Musk initiates price war that boosts stock and sends shockwaves through the entire industry. Chevrolet uses E-Ray as showcase for electrification paired with ICE. Toyota drops lovely new Prius that may prove PHEVs are the best path forward.2023-01-2928 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCosts behind a proper diagnosis. Tesla's appeal goes way beyond electrification. Corvette, Hummer & others thwart flippers with warranty threat.Experience, education, tools and knowledge are costs built into any diagnosis for your car. Don't waste time throwing parts at a problem. Avoid the mistake of replacing perfectly good OEM parts with inferior aftermarket parts. Do other OEMs see that part of Tesla's advantage is their lack of hard-sell, cringey marketing? Will anyone ever challenge their huge public charging headstart? We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2022-12-1333 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastFord regret Lightning price? Toyota and Koenigsegg downplay EV hype. History of warranties, their value & relevance. GM, KIA and Hyundai oil burning issues. EcoBoost reman engine.Did Ford underestimate Lightning popularity and cost? Toyota and Koenigsegg display prowess with PHEVs and Range Extenders yet get pilloried by extremists: Fair? Relevance of warranties, both OEM and 3rd party. Whose fault are repairs after years of use & abuse? Insurers look for any excuse to shirk responsibility. Both GM and Hyundai Kia experience oil burning claims. Bill's recent examples show why even extensive repairs are preferable to the cost of a replacement vehicle now. We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com If you enjoy the topics please rate and review at Apple...2022-11-0627 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastPrep for winter. Engine swap updates. Seek mechanic opinion before buying a car. Car shortage puts buyer emphasis on quality. Can a used Japanese firetruck make a great second car?Bill spots some light at the end of the parts shortage tunnel. Do Plaids and Lucids and Rivians actually take pressure off traditional OEM's horsepower wars? Toyota, Chevy, Ford and Ram durability is welcomed when vehicle pricing and repairs are inflated. Rare, low mile, 4x4 diesel 90's Nissan fire truck from Japan makes a compelling 2nd car. We love hearing from you!  Suggestions, questions or just say hello at CarsThePodcast@gmail.com    2022-10-1230 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRepos on the rise! Dealers gouging ...or just responding to free market? Tell us! Blame from CEOs. Tesla quietly adapts. Jeep Wrangler 4XE stealthy plug-in champion.Repo mania as values and interest rates climb. Hypothetical $5k used car reality? Is it fair of OEMs to scapegoat their franchised dealers for responding to a free market? Do $20 million salaried CEOs have the moral authority to berate small business owners adjusting to supply/demand imbalances? Tesla's vertical integration allows them to respond to market signals overnight (and to price accordingly). Bill describes a multi-state RV detour to avoid California's high diesel prices. Jeep has a surprise hit: the PHEV 4XE models that outsell any other plug-in hybrid...2022-08-2130 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastChevy Duramax hidden fix. GM LS V8 a genius of simplicity. Toyota and Stellantis stubbornly smart? Subsidies a waste of money? Hybrid and PHEV overlooked in rush to Electric? Energy density analogy.Bill stumbled upon an easy fix to Duramax diesel woes on 3,000 mile towing trip. American simplicity of the pushrod V8. The rush to all EV is overlooking the brilliance of PHEVs and the complementary benefits of having both in a vehicle. Stellantis and Toyota's stubborn adherence to internal combustion is gaining traction amongst others in the industry. Public EV charging pitfalls are being ignored by those who are making decisions but not forced to deal with them.2022-08-1434 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCar and parts shortage to persist for another year. Tesla continues to win share. Dilemma of repair or replace. Gas tax relief?Bill preps for summer RV tow to mountains and desert. Can gov't pass gas tax relief while pushing EV cars? Long waits and car rental expenses force insurance companies to cut checks. 2022-07-1430 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastGrass ain't Greener idiom rings true. Fix what you have! Taxes and fees discourage trading. Ford Woody.Bill and Don defend living in a scenic high-cost area, but grumble about funding mobile meth labs. All the good cars are now taken, so finding a good used one takes extra discernment.  We love hearing from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com Instagram?   CarsThePodcast  2022-06-1126 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastVW US history, ID Buzz and Scout hopes. Jim Farley Ford CEO podcasting. Jeep RV. No ethanol in boats. Welcome new hires!Bill and Don give USA and GenX perspective on VW past and future with ID Buzz and now Scout : attempts to capture Rivian, Tesla and Ioniq market. Ford CEO Jim Farley - welcome to podcasting! Coast Guard advises against ethanol mix for boats.2022-05-2929 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDetour: Bill's adventure towing RV from Ohio behind Duramax Silverado; Tornadoes, Hail, Snow and Squirrels.Just in time for camping season, Bill offers some practical advice for RV buyers fresh off a purchase and a 4,800 mile tow. Advance preparation and some cool modern tech can prevent a vacation disaster. Wifi and remote access can make camping even more comfortable than home.2022-05-0128 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastMechanic shortage compounds the parts shortage. Ancient Toyota Tacoma tops some sales charts. Tesla charging network is their secret sauce.Bill and Don discuss reasons for mechanic shortage and why it may be the right career path; Changing landscape of best-selling vehicles across the US. Companies that are slow to adopt new technologies are often smartest.2022-03-2235 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastRAM Range Extender pickup. SS396 worth restoring? Jeep 4XE #1 PHEV.Bill's customer uncovers a legit vintage Chevelle SS396 stored for four decades. Jeep Wrangler steals PHEV crown again to the surprise of many. Vintage 70's pickups fetching six figures. Median new cars cresting $46k while used are nearing $30k.  We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com Instagram? CarsThePodcast 2022-03-1927 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastProper diagnosis vs guessing. Elon and Akio downplay EV domination: ICE not going away. Ford ubiquity vs upstarts' novelty?Toyota and Tesla chiefs downplay the speed of EV acceptance. Bill applies proper diagnostic techniques to vehicle with mystery issues. Popular, common vehicles prevent headaches on road trips.  We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2021-11-1327 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCar buyer MInd Games, Bolt fires rage on. Replacement Engine$$$. Cool Volkswagen truck.LG and GM point fingers over EV fires. F150 buyers dig deep for reman turbo engines. Tips for getting the upper hand on car buying. Bill gives rare praise to Wolfsburg's finest. We love email!  CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2021-09-3030 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBill's Bryce Detour. Dealers return to The Churn. EV running costs. Hydrogen won't hide.Fresh posts on Instagram at CarsThePodcast. We love hearing from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2021-08-1830 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastJeep #1 Plug-In Hybrid. Hacking a BMW i3. Bill is Colorado-Bound. Idiot Light Lessons.Wrangler 4XE tops all others for PHEV sales crown. Hack a BMW i3 to force the petrol engine on? Bill heads to the Rockies with a 14,000lb backback. Gauges or Idiot Lights? Instagram? CarsThePodcast We'd love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com2021-08-0435 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastElectrical Engineer Doug Swier and EVs (rebroadcast)We cover pros and cons of plug-ins and hybrids with our guest. Check out our Instagram page uncovering the unique cars of the Pacific Northwest2021-07-0133 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBang for the Buck Off Road Mods. Pinzgauer Heater. Supply Disruptions affect Shops and StoresPandemic aftershocks still rock the parts world. Oil disruptions spur hoarding on the East Coast. Bill and Don detour off the road into worthwhile Jeep modifications. Send us your suggestions for topics, auto industry or otherwise. We love to hear from listeners! carsthepodcast@gmail.com2021-05-2129 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBronco party crashing Jeeps in Moab. Pricing frenzy everywhere. Pocket thousands by selling yourself.Bill and Don explore the reasons for the current global parts delays and automotive price frenzy. Take advantage of the seller's market. Ford and Jeep dealers revel in the offroading boom. 2021-04-2428 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastWashington bans gasoline cars in 9 years? A look back at Unintended Acceleration and Lemon LawsState legislature forwards a bill banning internal combustion. Good intentions but flawed logic? A sober look back at the frenzy surrounding Unintended Acceleration and Lemon Laws. Visit us on Instagram!2021-04-1929 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastYour phone becomes your car's touchscreen: Never outdated. Recall and TSB confusion.Bill explains the increasing reliance on TSBs for diagnosis. Confusion surrounding recalls and Lemon Law. Send us your thoughts! carsthepodcast@gmail.com Visit our Instagram page, CarsThePodcast 2021-04-1031 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastF150 Police Truck. Supply chain disruptions forcing prices up. Real-world EV ownership experiences.Bill and Don's candid, unvarnished, first-hand experiences with public EV charging on long trips. Multiple factors affecting car and parts availability (and prices). Ford reveals their newest pursuit vehicle based on the F150 EcoBoost. We'd love to hear from you!  carsthepodcast@gmail.com2021-03-3029 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBasics preserve your daily driver. Everyone rushes to online auctionsPandemic spurs shoppers and dealers to online auctions. Liquid fuel and hydrogen still the best for heavy loads and long distances. Bi-directional EV chargers can help alleviate rolling blackouts. Bill and Don cover the WHY of regular fluid changes. We love your feedback!  carsthepodcast@gmail.com Send along your own recommendations for support staff names! Hit up Instagram for updated photos.2021-03-2630 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCars not Disappearing: Just Morphing into SUVs. More help with guiding teens to their first car: Salvage or Cop Car OK?Proper care and feeding of car batteries - even for long-term storage. Morphing trends in the car industry: Trunks going bye-bye, Shades of Grey here to stay, and sacrificing durability on the altar of efficiency. Creative solutions for helping a teen find a first car they can afford. Visit our Instagram page, carsthepodcast Please send Bill and Don your topic ideas or questions - we love to hear from you!2021-03-0628 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastHybrid F150 Powerboost saves freezing Texans. Helping a Teen find a first car.Deep winter blackouts in the American Midwest make buyers appreciate liquid fuels. EVs have their place, but more as a complement than a replacement. Bill and Don discuss the thought process for helping guide a first time car buyer. Simple, sturdy, analog cars help drivers develop driving skills before Active Safety Systems stifle those same skills. Be wary of recommending a car that does too much. We love hearing from listeners. Please send us topic ideas, criticisms or questions to carsthepodcast@gmail.com Check out the local scene in the Shadows of Mt...2021-03-0330 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCoolant: Silent car killer. Don't let the antifreeze total your ride (rebroadcast)From the early days of the virus, Bill and Don go over the reasons not to overlook your cooling system, along with other winter tips to save money on your car. Send us your topic ideas, corrections, or even just a car question at carsthepodcast@gmaildotcom Please rate & review us.  Visit our Instagram page carsthepodast. See pics of the studio, the shop, and local events here in the Shadows of Mt. Rainer2021-02-2134 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCadillac for Gearheads. Also, Part 2 of Things that Destroy your car while sittingCadillac happily betrays its future EV plans to roll out the CT5 Blackwing: A glorious 6 speed manual, 668hp V8 swan song. Preserve your valuable car by recognizing the damage that time, moisture, sun and inferior parts can do. Bill and Don go cover what happens to cars that sit and also tips to prevent them. Check out our fledgling Instagram page for images of the car scene in the Shadows of Mt Rainier2021-02-1435 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCottage industry bill invigorates boutique car builders. 2021 predictions.Low Volume Vehicle Manufacturer Act finally signed! Predictions from Bill and Don for the coming year in automotive, culture, business and life2021-01-3033 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastThey Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To: Usually With Good ReasonFrom gravity-fed fueling and magneto ignition decades ago, to modern cars with dozens of onboard computers, Bill and Don go over the rationale for increased complexity and what that results in for car owners today.2021-01-2334 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastSnow Wheeling: A Cure for Cabin FeverBill's tips and tricks for wheeling in the white stuff ...and making sure you return home! Check out the new snow pics on Instagram at CarsThePodcast2020-12-2931 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastEvery mod has an upside and a downside. New Instagram Page!Bill and Don cover the compromises the manufacturers achieve to make their product idiot-proof. They also go over attributes you can enhance with modifications, as well as what shortcomings you can expect. Elon Musk's multi-billion dollar tax-planning moves, Long Beach Peninsula's missing car event and our new Coyote mascot are also discussed.  Visit our new Instagram page at CarsThePodcast2020-12-0534 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastAptitude vs Book Smarts; Buying a Half-Done ProjectSome people have lifelong mechanical curiosity, accomplishments and aptitude. Others excel at tests, but lack basic understanding of how things work. Bill and Don also hash over potential solid picks for a project car. Taking over someone else's incomplete project can be awesome.2020-12-0138 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastF150 PowerBoost. GM EV madness. Olympus Rally reboot.GM bets its future on pure EVs. Ford unveils clever hybrid pickup for both campers and contractors. Technology and this year's restrictions have changed the face of racing and sports worldwide. Bill details the fine-tuning and finesse needed for good driveability.2020-11-2231 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastHummer EV & Driving Habits to Preserve your CarBill and Don go over several unintentional habits that can cause major repairs. Also, will the new Hummer EV be a true offroad tool, or just clever marketing?2020-11-0332 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastEngine Swaps and Production Cars topping 300mphBill and Don detail the alleged 316mph production car speed record (331mph max) set by Washington State constructor SSC North America in Richland. Also covered, the need or desire for a new engine for your car or truck: Consult and experienced tech to determine whether repairing, modifying or swapping is the optimal solution.2020-10-2530 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastPrepare! Winter Car Tips (rebroadcast from 2019)Bill and Don provide some guidance for the upcoming dark, wet and cold conditions2020-10-2132 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastHow to Talk with your Shop - Saving Time and Money for BothThorough communication is the key to getting exactly what you want from your Technician or Service Department. You'll both avoid frustration and expense by understanding what's needed. Bill and Don briefly also cover how much extra you can save by selling your old car privately, and discuss the viability of EV charging stations for the onslaught of electric and electrified vehicles (Mustang Mach E, Hummer, Ioniq, VW ID4, Wrangler 4XE) coming to market.2020-10-0430 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastJeep 4XE: Wrangler and Plug-in owner offers unique perspectiveASE Mechanic, Jeeper and PHEV owner Bill gives his initial take on the potential and acceptance of Jeep's new Plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4XE. Will it sacrifice the old-school Jeep romance and trail skills for competence and complication? 2020-09-2930 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastWildfire here! Also, BMW i3 and Chevy Volt ownership detailsDon's home studio under evacuation orders. Bill keeps a wary eye on fires near his business and home. Both compare surprising revelations learned through ownership of their own range-extended EV's.2020-09-2031 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastTimeless Car Shopping Guide (rebroadcast)Bill and Don cover universal guidelines to use when looking for your next ride. The expected glut of lease returns didn't pan out as COVID-19 has people hoarding good used cars.2020-09-1330 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastParts Shortages and Your WalletThe make, model and year of your vehicle will affect the cost and continued supply of parts; pandemics will, too. Some manufacturers are notorious for supporting older cars; others, not so much2020-09-0731 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBMW i3: A Modern Carbon Fiber Model T? Can gearheads love EV's?Bill and Don discuss Plug-in ownership now that Don succumbed. Tesla soars ever higher through a stock split. Have we reached peak EV hype? ...We still love ICE! Reach out to us!  carsthepodcast@gmail.com2020-09-0231 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCars: The Tail that Wags the Financial Dog for your family. Be wary of internet repairsCar decisions can have a greater impact than housing on your total budget. We discuss the pitfalls of trusting Video Virtuosos, Forum Friends, and Website Wizards with your car's issues.2020-08-2230 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastHyundai and Cadillac IQ Cage Match. Colorado and SoCal Road TripsBill and Don return from summer hiatus with road stories and auto industry happenings.2020-08-1930 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastUsed Car Inspection Tips (Episode Rebroadcast)Bill and Don provide a real-world checklist for buyers with limited skills and tools. You can quickly rule out unacceptable cars and focus your time, energy and money on the right vehicle. 2020-08-0931 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastQuality Award Deceptions and Collateral DamageThe fallacy of "Initial Quality" awards revealed. Also, are parts breaking when accessing others? ...Brittle plastics and hard-to-access engine bays contribute to this plague. 2020-07-3132 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBronco Busting or Tesla TrustingLongtime Jeeper Bill gives respect to the new Ford Bronco. Will GM ever respond? Acolytes and fanboys of all stripes ignore their own favorite brands' flaws. As always, Don and Bill discuss the many layers of a car's cost beyond just MPG and MSRP.2020-07-1933 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastTiny Tesla Tops Toyota ...Temporarily?Bill and Don humblebrag about living in the automotive mecca of the Mt Rainier region. The highs and lows of Honda, Hyundai and Kia history are also debated.2020-07-1433 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastEngine Swaps: V8 Astros and 2 cylinder BMWsBill's Overland Van idea and V8 swaps; Don wonders how a company can make brilliant cars, yet repeatedly misread the market.2020-07-0630 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDid Ford or Jeep lose the plot?Bill and Don opine on various brands' highs and lows through the years. Consideration is given to mechanical virtue, repair ease, adherence to brand values and mission creep.2020-06-2835 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDetour Podcast: David Swier on Mason County, Mischief and MentoringDoug and Don Swier grill their dad on Father's Day about entrepreneurship, old cars and new ideas. A crackling campfire on the Mason Lake shoreline completes the audio. 2020-06-261h 08Cars The PodcastCars The PodcastLost the Plot 2: GM and Mopar - Dominance to DunceBill and Don discuss carmakers who veered from their stronghold, and their steps to regain prominence. 2020-06-2130 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCarmakers who Lost the PlotBill and Don pontificate about various carmakers who confused their customers or annoyed the people who fix their cars  2020-06-0837 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBuckley, Washington: Bill Magnusson of On The Side AutomotiveDon interviews Bill on his early mechanical aptitude, path into the industry, business ownership, and ongoing education in an ever-changing field2020-05-3142 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastEmbracing Changing Tech over the YearsBill and Don discuss newfound appreciation for older, proven systems, as well as the necessity to adapt to advancing technology2020-05-2533 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDetour Episode: Dick Swier on Aviation and Adventures in the PNWDoug and Don Swier Interview uncle Dick Swier, retired WSP Captain (Aviation) on Flying, Family and travelling the West2020-05-191h 21Cars The PodcastCars The PodcastDon't be a Guinea Pig ...Be a Pig in SlopCar buying tips for the pandemic and beyond2020-05-1630 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastUsed Car Buy Inspection Tips2020-05-0331 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastBill's Volt StudioBill and Don on winnowing the field2020-04-2931 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastPractical Advice: Bill and Don's top tips in the COVID eraBefore you leave your shelter-in-place, distinguish your needs from your wants.2020-04-1933 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastAdvice for your next used car: Before you leave quarantineDetermine your needs before you head out and make a hasty choice2020-04-1132 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastSocial Distancing with Off Road EssentialsDon relies on Bill's decades of Off Road Jeep experience to compile a list of necessities.2020-04-0132 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastSeattle Pandemics, Bonney Lake PolemicsBill Magnusson and Don Swier report from the front line of America's version of COVID-19, and its impact on transportation.2020-03-2234 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastSwapping out a daily driverBill and Don discuss when to determine it's best to swap out your daily driver.2020-03-1935 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCorollaVirus and RecallsFrom the American epicenter of The Pandemic, we offer useless advice on health, but a useful distinction between recalls, TSB's and warranty issues2020-03-0733 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastUnfiltered Opinions on Filters and PinionsKeep your assets clean and healthy.2020-03-0333 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastExperience and WisdomWhen having your ride worked on, it's beneficial to pick a tech who's been down the path a few times2020-02-2732 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastFirst, Do No Harm. Technicians and Docs AgreeA proper and thorough diagnosis is the best money spent on repair.2020-02-1831 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastPuget Sound Water TortureAvoid water damage, whether it's your own car, or one you plan to buy.2020-02-0932 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCoolant: Silent Killer for Your Car?Bill Magnusson and Don Swier discuss how neglected coolant can eat an engine from within2020-02-0534 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastSiesta Fiesta2020-01-2931 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDiagnosing DemystifiedThe history of "what's wrong with my car?!"2020-01-1835 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastMexico to Maxi SnowBill's adventures in Puerto Vallarta and in the fresh snow near Mt Rainier. We also follow up on fluids that will preserve your car in the new year.2020-01-1232 minCars The PodcastCars The Podcast2020 Resolutions for your RideResolve to amend some items on your vehicle that, if neglected, can destroy your car.2019-12-2931 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDetour Episode: Carol Swier Northwest PerspectiveA unique perspective from someone who witnessed the changes in the travel, the lifestyle and the lives in this region for 8 decades.2019-12-281h 03Cars The PodcastCars The PodcastWintertime Car TipsSome clever tips for seeing where you're going in dicey weather, and safely getting there, too.2019-12-2432 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastNoise and ShudderSome common audible irritants from your car, and what to do about them2019-12-1931 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastCyberTroll to HyperMileGive up on an old ride, never pick a fight with a Rocket Man, and getting sufficiently efficient2019-12-0731 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastDiesel or No DieselFood for thought on whether modern Diesel engines are worth consideration2019-11-3033 minCars The PodcastCars The Podcastdetour Podcast: Three Trailheads Talking. Can Car Guys be nature lovers, too?Joined by guest Doug Swier, Bill and Don explain why the Pacific Northwest keeps attracting outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe. Doug and Don cover road trips to climb volcanoes in Oregon and Washington, while Bill tops the discussion with a Mt Rainier ascent.2019-11-1929 minCars The PodcastCars The PodcastGuest Electrical Engineer Doug Swier amps up the discussion on EVs and plug-in hybridsVeteran professional engineer provides insight for Bill and Don on the pros and cons of using electricity to propel today's vehicles. We briefly cover energy costs and incentives, limitations and home energy generation.2019-11-1033 min