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Showing episodes and shows of
Don Swier And Bill Magnusson
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Cars The Podcast
Why 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?
2025-06-01
21 min
Cars The Podcast
Rebroadcast: 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.
2025-05-01
30 min
Cars The Podcast
No 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,
2025-04-14
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Rebroadcast: 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$$ive hidden problems. Corrections? Rant? Raves? Topic ideas you'd like to hear? ...send 'em all our way to: CarsThePodcast@gmail.com
2025-04-05
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Rebroadcast: Japan trip. Ups & downs of owning business. Honda, Suzuki, Nissan & Yamaha. When to give up DIY & see a mechanic.
Bill getting back to form after Europe trip. Don's trip to Japan for family and visiting Daikoku, Honda, Suzuki, Nissan & Yamaha: pragmatism & perfection on display. When is it best to quit a DIY procedure and visit a real technician? We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com Rant, Rave or just say hello!
2025-01-31
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Toyota not perfect. Subaru CR darling. Don't lose focus when buying. Tesla pushing envelope for other OEMs. Hyundai & KIa engines.
Listeners from Djibouti to Jakarta. Bill's customer squeezing every mile from reliable Sienna, but even Toyota can have teething problems with new engine. Lesson for buyers? Subaru slow evolution of same platform scores Consumer Reports #1 reliability rank. A cheap used car won't fundamentally worsen your life, but a cheap neighborhood will. Get a pre-purchase inspection to avoid expen$$ive hidden problems. Corrections? Rants? Raves? .....doesn't matter! We love to hear from you! CarsThePodcast@gmail.com
2025-01-01
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Sensor(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?
2024-11-24
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Rebroadcast: 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.
2024-10-01
28 min
Cars The Podcast
Japan 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.com
2024-08-22
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Bill'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!
2024-08-17
27 min
Cars The Podcast
Rebroadcast: 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.
2024-06-30
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Running 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?
2024-04-20
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Bill'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.com
2024-03-25
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Mechanics 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 Mini
Your 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?
2023-08-26
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Japan 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.
2023-08-12
26 min
Cars The Podcast
Beware 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.
2023-06-24
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Ram 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.com
2023-03-06
34 min
Cars 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
2023-02-05
28 min
Cars The Podcast
California Dreamin'. Stranded from delayed maintenance. Tesla launches price war and rattles industry. Corvette E-Ray. Toyota Hybrid and PHEV debuts. Ode to CarTalk
Don'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.
2023-01-31
28 min
Cars The Podcast
California 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.
2023-01-29
28 min
Cars The Podcast
Costs 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.com
2022-12-13
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Ford 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...
2022-11-06
27 min
Cars The Podcast
Prep 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
2022-10-12
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Repos 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...
2022-08-21
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Chevy 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.
2022-08-14
34 min
Cars The Podcast
Car 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.
2022-07-14
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Grass 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
2022-06-11
26 min
Cars The Podcast
VW 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.
2022-05-29
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Detour: 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.
2022-05-01
28 min
Cars The Podcast
Mechanic 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.
2022-03-22
35 min
Cars The Podcast
RAM 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
2022-03-19
27 min
Cars The Podcast
Proper 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.com
2021-11-13
27 min
Cars The Podcast
Car 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.com
2021-09-30
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Bill'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.com
2021-08-18
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Jeep #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.com
2021-08-04
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Electrical 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 Northwest
2021-07-01
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Bang for the Buck Off Road Mods. Pinzgauer Heater. Supply Disruptions affect Shops and Stores
Pandemic 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.com
2021-05-21
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Bronco 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.
2021-04-24
28 min
Cars The Podcast
Washington bans gasoline cars in 9 years? A look back at Unintended Acceleration and Lemon Laws
State 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!
2021-04-19
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Your 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
2021-04-10
31 min
Cars The Podcast
F150 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.com
2021-03-30
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Basics preserve your daily driver. Everyone rushes to online auctions
Pandemic 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.
2021-03-26
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Cars 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!
2021-03-06
28 min
Cars The Podcast
Hybrid 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...
2021-03-03
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Coolant: 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. Rainer
2021-02-21
34 min
Cars The Podcast
Cadillac for Gearheads. Also, Part 2 of Things that Destroy your car while sitting
Cadillac 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 Rainier
2021-02-14
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Cottage 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 life
2021-01-30
33 min
Cars The Podcast
They Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To: Usually With Good Reason
From 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.
2021-01-23
34 min
Cars The Podcast
Snow Wheeling: A Cure for Cabin Fever
Bill'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 CarsThePodcast
2020-12-29
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Every 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 CarsThePodcast
2020-12-05
34 min
Cars The Podcast
Aptitude vs Book Smarts; Buying a Half-Done Project
Some 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.
2020-12-01
38 min
Cars The Podcast
F150 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.
2020-11-22
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Hummer EV & Driving Habits to Preserve your Car
Bill 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?
2020-11-03
32 min
Cars The Podcast
Engine Swaps and Production Cars topping 300mph
Bill 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.
2020-10-25
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Prepare! Winter Car Tips (rebroadcast from 2019)
Bill and Don provide some guidance for the upcoming dark, wet and cold conditions
2020-10-21
32 min
Cars The Podcast
How to Talk with your Shop - Saving Time and Money for Both
Thorough 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.
2020-10-04
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Jeep 4XE: Wrangler and Plug-in owner offers unique perspective
ASE 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?
2020-09-29
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Wildfire here! Also, BMW i3 and Chevy Volt ownership details
Don'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.
2020-09-20
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Timeless 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.
2020-09-13
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Parts Shortages and Your Wallet
The 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 much
2020-09-07
31 min
Cars The Podcast
BMW 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.com
2020-09-02
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Cars: The Tail that Wags the Financial Dog for your family. Be wary of internet repairs
Car 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.
2020-08-22
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Hyundai and Cadillac IQ Cage Match. Colorado and SoCal Road Trips
Bill and Don return from summer hiatus with road stories and auto industry happenings.
2020-08-19
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Used 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.
2020-08-09
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Quality Award Deceptions and Collateral Damage
The 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.
2020-07-31
32 min
Cars The Podcast
Bronco Busting or Tesla Trusting
Longtime 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.
2020-07-19
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Tiny 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.
2020-07-14
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Engine Swaps: V8 Astros and 2 cylinder BMWs
Bill's Overland Van idea and V8 swaps; Don wonders how a company can make brilliant cars, yet repeatedly misread the market.
2020-07-06
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Did 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.
2020-06-28
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Detour Podcast: David Swier on Mason County, Mischief and Mentoring
Doug 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.
2020-06-26
1h 08
Cars The Podcast
Lost the Plot 2: GM and Mopar - Dominance to Dunce
Bill and Don discuss carmakers who veered from their stronghold, and their steps to regain prominence.
2020-06-21
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Carmakers who Lost the Plot
Bill and Don pontificate about various carmakers who confused their customers or annoyed the people who fix their cars
2020-06-08
37 min
Cars The Podcast
Buckley, Washington: Bill Magnusson of On The Side Automotive
Don interviews Bill on his early mechanical aptitude, path into the industry, business ownership, and ongoing education in an ever-changing field
2020-05-31
42 min
Cars The Podcast
Embracing Changing Tech over the Years
Bill and Don discuss newfound appreciation for older, proven systems, as well as the necessity to adapt to advancing technology
2020-05-25
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Detour Episode: Dick Swier on Aviation and Adventures in the PNW
Doug and Don Swier Interview uncle Dick Swier, retired WSP Captain (Aviation) on Flying, Family and travelling the West
2020-05-19
1h 21
Cars The Podcast
Don't be a Guinea Pig ...Be a Pig in Slop
Car buying tips for the pandemic and beyond
2020-05-16
30 min
Cars The Podcast
Used Car Buy Inspection Tips
2020-05-03
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Bill's Volt Studio
Bill and Don on winnowing the field
2020-04-29
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Practical Advice: Bill and Don's top tips in the COVID era
Before you leave your shelter-in-place, distinguish your needs from your wants.
2020-04-19
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Advice for your next used car: Before you leave quarantine
Determine your needs before you head out and make a hasty choice
2020-04-11
32 min
Cars The Podcast
Social Distancing with Off Road Essentials
Don relies on Bill's decades of Off Road Jeep experience to compile a list of necessities.
2020-04-01
32 min
Cars The Podcast
Seattle Pandemics, Bonney Lake Polemics
Bill Magnusson and Don Swier report from the front line of America's version of COVID-19, and its impact on transportation.
2020-03-22
34 min
Cars The Podcast
Swapping out a daily driver
Bill and Don discuss when to determine it's best to swap out your daily driver.
2020-03-19
35 min
Cars The Podcast
CorollaVirus and Recalls
From the American epicenter of The Pandemic, we offer useless advice on health, but a useful distinction between recalls, TSB's and warranty issues
2020-03-07
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Unfiltered Opinions on Filters and Pinions
Keep your assets clean and healthy.
2020-03-03
33 min
Cars The Podcast
Experience and Wisdom
When having your ride worked on, it's beneficial to pick a tech who's been down the path a few times
2020-02-27
32 min
Cars The Podcast
First, Do No Harm. Technicians and Docs Agree
A proper and thorough diagnosis is the best money spent on repair.
2020-02-18
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Puget Sound Water Torture
Avoid water damage, whether it's your own car, or one you plan to buy.
2020-02-09
32 min
Cars The Podcast
Coolant: Silent Killer for Your Car?
Bill Magnusson and Don Swier discuss how neglected coolant can eat an engine from within
2020-02-05
34 min
Cars The Podcast
Siesta Fiesta
2020-01-29
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Diagnosing Demystified
The history of "what's wrong with my car?!"
2020-01-18
35 min
Cars The Podcast
Mexico to Maxi Snow
Bill'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.
2020-01-12
32 min
Cars The Podcast
2020 Resolutions for your Ride
Resolve to amend some items on your vehicle that, if neglected, can destroy your car.
2019-12-29
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Detour Episode: Carol Swier Northwest Perspective
A unique perspective from someone who witnessed the changes in the travel, the lifestyle and the lives in this region for 8 decades.
2019-12-28
1h 03
Cars The Podcast
Wintertime Car Tips
Some clever tips for seeing where you're going in dicey weather, and safely getting there, too.
2019-12-24
32 min
Cars The Podcast
Noise and Shudder
Some common audible irritants from your car, and what to do about them
2019-12-19
31 min
Cars The Podcast
CyberTroll to HyperMile
Give up on an old ride, never pick a fight with a Rocket Man, and getting sufficiently efficient
2019-12-07
31 min
Cars The Podcast
Diesel or No Diesel
Food for thought on whether modern Diesel engines are worth consideration
2019-11-30
33 min
Cars The Podcast
detour 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.
2019-11-19
29 min
Cars The Podcast
Guest Electrical Engineer Doug Swier amps up the discussion on EVs and plug-in hybrids
Veteran 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.
2019-11-10
33 min