Car Talk

11/19/2025

Let me guess, the space was empty.

11/17/2025

Dear Car Talk:
Two mechanics couldn't find anything wrong with my non-functional parking brake. It's a floor-pedal type that does ratchet.

Do I just need a shorter cable? -- Kent
Read Ray's response: Brake Expectations: When You're Stuck But Not Parked - Car Talk https://ecs.page.link/bzKoi

11/15/2025

Unencumbered by the thought process, the Shameless Commerce Division is back: https://shamelesscommerce.com

11/13/2025

The Car Talk Shameless Commerce Division is back!

You asked, and we finally got around to delivering. And who knows, we may get around to adding more options down the road.

Check it out: https://shamelesscommerce.com/

11/13/2025

Comfortable enough for a cat, huh? We love vintage car ads.

11/11/2025

Dear Car Talk:
My 2014 Mazda CX-5's driver's seat won't go back. The motor makes the appropriate sound, but it just won't go backward, as if it's stuck on something. The seat goes up, down, and forward with no problem, but not backward.

Someone at Advance Auto Parts told me that it's off the rail. Does that sound right? And if so, can a mechanic put it back on the rail?
Thanks so much. I love your column! -- Cara

Read Ray's response: https://ecs.page.link/z2UhE

11/10/2025

NOPE. No. No way.

11/07/2025

Tire pressure gauges are a must for every vehicle owner. You should always have one handy in your glove box or console. Knowing which is best for your needs can be hard with so many types and styles. In this article, Car Talk tire experts with decades of experience did hands-on testing to determine the best tire pressure gauges on the market today. Our recommendations cover a range of tire pressure gauges available, from low-cost and simple ones to more high-end choices. Learn more: Best Tire Pressure Gauges - Car Talk https://ecs.page.link/NRbt6

Car Talk researchers and expert mechanics weigh in on the best tire pressure gauges for your vehicle, how much they will cost, and how to make the best-informed decision for your needs.

11/06/2025

Byron donated his 2008 Toyota Camry to KUNR Public Radio through the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program. Thank you, Byron, for !

"This car was bought new by my grandfather, a big supporter of public radio and retired engineer. I inherited it after he passed in 2014, with some bruises courtesy of his twitchy right foot. It had several hit-and-runs in parking lots under my ownership, though I was able to fix most for $100 in parts, a tea kettle, and decking screws. My other car is a 2002 PT Cruiser, so in honor of the horrors my Camry endured, my son dubbed it the PT...SD. Mechanically, it ran fine, though frequent aerial maneuvers courtesy of a pronounced crown in the road crossed at high speed, until the motor exploded. earn more about the Car Talk Vehicle Donation Program: https://ecs.page.link/bB2Sw

11/05/2025

Talk about taking the business vehicle to new heights. Thanks to our very own Julie for finding this feat of automotive engineering.

11/04/2025

Dear Car Talk:
I was going into a small market in the neighborhood recently, and a giant GMC pickup parked right in front of the shop. As I walked by, the owner used the remote key fob to lock the door and a massive horn blew right in my ear.

My Hondas have a courteous little beep to indicate that the door is locked if I push the lock button twice. Why can't a $100,000 pickup have a considerate chime to indicate locking?
How macho does it have to be? -- Jeffrey

Read Ray's response: Macho Madness vs. Car Lock Courtesy - Car Talk https://ecs.page.link/GhnmY

10/30/2025

It's that time again...