Wrench Nation

Ever try to save a few bucks by wrenching on your own ride, only to end up with a driveway disaster? From stripped bolts to mystery leaks, we’re diving into the most common DIY car repairs that can go sideways — and the small but vital steps that often get overlooked.

  SPECIAL GUEST : LEAD MECUM AUCTIONS MOTOR TREND TV COMMENTATOR JOHN KRAMAN  LEAD MECUM TV COMMENTATOR JOHN KRAMAN PIT STOPS IN THE WRENCHNATION STUDIOS TO DISCUSS THE LEGENDARY HISTORY OF THE MECUM FAMILY & THEIR HUMBLE BEGINNINGS , ALONG WITH SOME AMAZING INSIGHT TO THE CURRENT COLLECTIONS OFFERED FOR SALE ! *HOW TO APPROACH AN AUCTION AND THE BIDDING PROCESS FOR THE FIRST TIME *THE FAMED HOOKED ON VETTES COLLECTION OFFERING *AUTOMOTIVE ROAD ART THAT LEAVES YOUR NEIGHBORS ENVIOUS *JOHN KRAMAN TALENTED MUSICIAN BEHIND THE SCENES COMMUNITY SEGMENT BONUS : BIG HEART AUTHOR & RESTAURATEUR RANDY WALTERS TELLS HIS INCREDIBLE STORY OF INSPIRATION AND PASSION BEHIND HIS LATEST BOOK RELEASE “HAMBURGERS HOT DOGS & HUGS ”  Frank Hops in….Dodge Garage Thrill Ride AT MECUM GLENDALE 

Shocks & Struts -When Should You Replace ? Tire cupping , excessive jounce and bounce while having an overall reduced ride and feel of your vehicle may be present, and you are not sure where to start to correct. ASE Master Technician & Product Specialist of Monroe Shocks & Struts, Mike Hinderer stops by the show to discuss how shocks & struts are critical to the steering , stopping and stability of your vehicle. Join us for this special TIPS edition of the show.

  This week on Wrench Nation, we welcome motorsports broadcaster and automotive storyteller Rick DeBruhl, representing the incredible Martin Auto Museum. From rare classics to iconic race machines, the Martin Auto Museum isn’t just about chrome and horsepower—it’s about preserving history, inspiring the next generation, and celebrating the stories behind the sheet metal. Rick takes us behind the scenes with museum favorites, upcoming events, and why this destination is a true gem for car culture ! 

This week on WrenchNation, we’re joined by Trucker Tim — a seasoned long-hauler who’s witnessed it all: the grit, the grind, and the growing dangers inside today’s trucking world. America’s economy rolls on eighteen wheels, but what happens when those wheels start coming off?From illegal labor to shady maintenance shortcuts and companies cutting corners just to survive — the cracks are widening.This isn’t just a trucking crisis. It’s a road-safety wake-up call for every driver out there.  

Few people have done more to put the automotive world on the global stage than Tom Gattuso. As Vice President of Events for SEMA, Tom is the driving force behind the legendary SEMA Show in Las Vegas — one of the most influential automotive trade events on the planet. Blending marketing expertise, sharp strategic planning, and a lifelong passion for all things automotive, Tom has elevated the SEMA Show into a must-attend gathering for industry pros, builders, and enthusiasts worldwide. Under his leadership, the event has grown far beyond a product showcase to become an immersive celebration of car culture and innovation. Tom pitstops by this awesome edition of WN sharing his story and the incredible movement that is the SEMA SHOW 

Jim Liaw serves as the General Manager of Performance Racing Industry (PRI), where he leads efforts to support and advocate for racers, builders, sanctioning bodies, tracks, and the businesses that fuel motorsports. A natural entrepreneur with a deep passion for the industry, Liaw has built a career creating and elevating programs that connect with both enthusiasts and the next generation of fans. Before joining PRI in 2021, Liaw co-founded Formula Drift in 2003 and served as its President. What began as a little-known motorsport from Japan quickly became the premier professional drifting series in the world under his leadership. Together with his partner, Liaw helped transform drifting into a global motorsport standard and an influential pillar of youth automotive culture. Jim is our special guest on this edition of WrenchNation, where he recounts the fascinating history of Formula Drift and shares insight into his current role with PRI, driving the future of motorsports forward.

Headliners + Horsepower ! OPTIMA® Batteries On the latest Wrench Nation, we sat down with Tom Gattuso, VP of Events for Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), to dive into the incredible lineup and what makes this years SEMA FEST a must-see. Headliners include Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes, and Neon Trees—blending world-class music with the ultimate car culture experience. Beyond the stage, SEMA Fest brings rare custom builds, concept rides, networking industry training sessioins, and the unique chance for the public to step inside the legendary SEMA Show on Nov. 7. It’s the perfect collision of horsepower and harmony. Don’t miss it. SEMA FEST Details : https://www.semafest.com/ Catch our complete WrenchNation interview with Tom coming soon on https://bit.ly/40oWRg1 A big hugs gratitude to many of the SEMA team quietly working to make an incredible event , year after year, while keeping members legislatively on the right side! We are grateful . Mike Spagnola Karen Bailey-Chapman    

A couple of last-minute guests roll into the studio, as we swap stories about used car adventures—the good, the bad, and the ‘what were we thinking?’ moments. We’ll give you smart tips to avoid falling for the classic mechanical cover-ups that sellers try to slip past you, and dish up some practical advice empowering you before your next used car buy ! Need a prepurchase inspection ? Reach out to Frank for a community minded auto service facilty in your neighborhood .      

You may not think about it when you start your car, but a world of innovation is working silently under the hood to keep your ride smooth, safe, and comfortable. From smart thermostats and electronic stability control to adaptive engine mounts and climate system breakthroughs, this episode of WrenchNation shines a spotlight on the unsung tech advancements that transformed your daily drive. We’ll explore how these behind-the-scenes components evolved, why they matter, and how they continue to quietly shape modern motoring—because sometimes the most important parts are the ones you never see. BONUS : Our talented board operator, student alumni of EVIT , Aiden Mohr ,shares his very beginning stages of transition as a new hire to the team at the garage ! We also share some latest automotive news of this and that.  

The technician shortage isn’t just about a lack of interest or younger generations turning away from the trades. It’s about years of failed leadership, broken promises, and workplaces that left passion out in the cold. This week on Wrench Nation we dig deep into one of the industry’s most pressing crises—and we’re not pulling punches. We’re joined by special guest Josh Parnell of Limitless Leadership , a voice that’s challenging the status quo and calling out the cultural rot from the top down. From toxic shop environments to outdated mindsets that value profit over people, Josh helps us unpack how bad leadership has driven good techs out of the bays—and how real, intentional leadership can bring them back. If you’ve ever wondered why the tools are there but the hands are missing, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Reach out to Josh Parnell : Limit Leadership

Ever wonder what happens before the hammer drops? We take you behind the scenes of the auction process, from vehicle consignment to final sale so that you can navigate it all as a buyer or seller with confidence or an enthusiast taking it all in!    How does the consignment process work?  How are the reserve prices determined? What are the roles of the consignor before the auction? What are the roles of the consignor at the auction? Is there a better auction or even time to consign a vehicle? Our special guest is Gus Kozarzewski, a Consignment Agent with Mecum Auctions, who helps us navigate it all!  SPECIAL TRIBUTE HONORING  “JK” JOHN KRAMAN;THE PROFESSOR  Mecum Auctions Motor Trend TV Lead TV Commentator Suddenly Passes Away Today we remember and honor JK of Mecum Auctions, a true icon in the automotive world. JK’s passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the collector car community left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His love for classic cars was matched only by his generosity, kindness, and ability to bring people together through a shared appreciation of automotive history. Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on in every auction, every car, and every memory he helped create. Let us celebrate his life, his impact, and the lasting influence he has left on Mecum Auctions and beyond. Rest in peace, JK—your spirit will always ride with us !  *Catch previous episodes of John Kraman  

Emission Impossible: Avoid These Common Failures Discover the most common reasons behind failed emissions tests in this insightful episode of WrenchNation. From faulty oxygen sensors to leaky exhaust systems, we’ll break down the most common culprits and how they impact your vehicle’s performance and the environment. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or a curious car owner, tune in for practical tips to keep your ride running clean and passing with flying colors & how to navigate check engine light causing failures.

Fast, Furious, and Full of Heart: Cody Walker Discusses FUEL FEST with Frank Leutz (Apologies for the delayed upload; please make sure to catch 2025 Fuel Fest Events coming to a city near you ) Join host Frank Leutz as he sits down with special guest Cody Walker to discuss the highly anticipated FuelFest 2024 in Scottsdale, AZ! Cody shares insights into this epic celebration of cars, music, and culture, paying tribute to the legacy of his brother, Paul Walker, star of the Fast & Furious franchise. Discover how FuelFest combines automotive passion with giving back, supporting Reach Out Worldwide (ROWW), the charity Paul founded to provide disaster relief. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation about cars, community, and carrying on a powerful mission.

Welcome! You’ve landed at Busted Knuckle Garage, an automotive lifestyle brand with a story like no other. Founder Warren Tracy dreamt up this idea years ago while living deep in the Grand Canyon—an unlikely place for a car enthusiast, but that’s exactly where the vision was born. One morning, Warren woke to find a rough cartoon sketch of a garage he’d drawn in his sleep, without any memory of doing it. That sketch soon became a reality, and after twenty years of passion, dedication, and grit, every piece of Busted Knuckle Garage merchandise you see today comes straight from that dream. No corporations, no assembly lines—just one guy, a love for classic cars, and a trusty wrench. Join us as Warren pitstops on the show to share is incredible journey !  

  Educating consumers properly about vehicle service and purchasing is crucial to ensure they have the best possible experience. With the right knowledge, consumers can make informed decisions, avoid being overcharged or misled, and feel confident when negotiating prices or choosing the right vehicle. Proper education also empowers them to understand essential aspects like maintenance schedules, warranties, and repair options, ultimately saving time and money while prolonging the life of their vehicle. A well-informed consumer is better equipped to handle unexpected challenges and make smarter investments, leading to a more satisfying vehicle ownership experience. An honor to have special guests Cathy Droz & Dave Ware of Raise A Hood  Join us as we take a deep dive into consumer behaviors and how we can accomplish consistent stellar service under hood or on the new \used car lot when it comes to vehicle purchases.

Robots are transforming the automotive service industry by assisting technicians with precision tasks and improving efficiency. Richtech Robotics is revolutionizing the automotive service industry by integrating advanced robotics solutions to streamline operations. Their robots assist with various tasks, such as handling routine maintenance, inspecting vehicle components, and conducting precise diagnostics. Richtech’s robots enhance efficiency and reduce downtime in service shops by automating repetitive tasks . They also help ensure higher accuracy in repairs, allowing technicians to focus on more complex issues, ultimately improving service quality and productivity in the automotive industry. Join us as Stephen Deperte of Richtech Robotics reveals the latest in robot technology! Article : Mercedes Benz Dealership Utilizes Robot in Service Bays   

TOPDON USA VP Chad Schnitz For an automotive technician, deciphering data is crucial, but understanding which diagnostic tool works best for each unique scenario that may arise in a service bay is equally important. Vehicles today are equipped with increasingly complex computer systems that generate vast amounts of data related to engine performance, emissions, and other critical functions. This data provides essential clues about the vehicle’s condition, but knowing how to interpret it effectively requires skill and experience. Technicians must be able to distinguish between normal and abnormal readings, identify patterns in the data, and trace the root cause of a problem. Decoding this information is foundational to accurate and efficient vehicle repairs. However, deciphering data alone is not enough. Different vehicles, makes, models, and even specific systems within those vehicles may require specialized diagnostic tools. What works for a particular brand’s transmission issue may not be suitable for diagnosing a complex electrical problem in another car. Selecting the right diagnostic tool ensures that the technician can access the most relevant and detailed information, reducing the chance of misdiagnosis and increasing the speed and accuracy of repairs. TOPDON USA VP Chad Schnitz joins us for an in-depth conversation, offering valuable tips on how to succeed in the service bays by selecting the right test equipment for each specific diagnostic procedure.

Craig Jackson is the Chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, a leading auction house specializing in collector cars. Under his leadership, Barrett-Jackson has become renowned for its high-profile auctions and its role in the classic car market. Jackson’s expertise and passion for automobiles have significantly contributed to the company’s growth and prominence in the industry. Craig stops by the WrenchNation show to share the details of the upcoming Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction !