Main themes: Honda announces an extension of the powertrain warranty on 2017-2018 CR-Vs and 2016-2018 Civics with 1.5-liter turbocharged engines to allow consumers additional time for repairs should they experience a gas-in-the-oil dilution issue. Consumer Reports published an investigative report in October about the problem. This week's video podcast panel discusses the issue, as well as how service bulletins and recalls affect a vehicle's or automaker's recommendations and reputations.

We also discuss: What are the best used inexpensive small SUVs?

Driven this week: 2019 Kia Niro EV

Audience questions:

  • Cars seem to warn drivers about everything. Why don't they let drivers know about a failed headlight or tail light?
  • Why are trucks rated on the same scale as cars for noise, ride, and comfort?
  • Can drivers expect advanced safety systems to perform in poor visibility conditions?
  • What happened to spare tires, and can you expect a puncture repair kit to repair most flats?

As with other "Talking Cars" episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You'll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.

• Tesla's Updated Navigate on Autopilot, episode 204
• Toyota Supra and BMW Z4, episode 203
• All Questions: Tires, Oil Changes, episode 202
• 2020 Jeep Gladiator, episode 201
• Live From Brooklyn, N.Y.!, episode 200


Have a Question?

We'd love to include it in a future show. Click here to upload your video questions to our Dropbox folder. Please send high-definition (1920x1080) MP4 video files with high-quality audio. Or send an iMessage question to our TalkingCars@icloud.com account.