Main themes: The Consumer Reports auto experts answer a whole bunch of questions from our Talking Cars viewers. We share buying advice, discuss repair shops, and shed light on the intricacies of CR's rating system—and have some fun along the way.

Audience questions:

  • Why does my brand-new car need its battery replaced?
  • What caused the Toyota Tacoma's reliability rating to drop?
  • Is the Honda Ridgeline the right choice for an avid DIYer with a 50-mile daily commute?
  • I'm moving to the snow belt but still want a fun car—what should I get?

... and a whole lot more!

Talking Cars panelists Mike Quincy, Keith Barry, and Mike Monticello
Panelists: Mike Quincy, Keith Barry, and Mike Monticello

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 and video on YouTube.

• Cadillac's XT4 and Subscription Plan, episode 176
• Toyota RAV4, CR Ratings Update, episode 175
• New Car Reliability, episode 174
 All Questions, episode 173
• Honda CR-V Engine Issues, Nissan Altima, episode 172


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.