DiscoverThe Best of Car Talk#2452: Go Ahead, Touch 'em!
#2452: Go Ahead, Touch 'em!

#2452: Go Ahead, Touch 'em!

Update: 2024-06-292
Share

Digest

The Tapet Brothers tackle a variety of car-related issues in this episode. They first address a listener's 1987 Ford Escort that makes a strange shaking noise, suggesting it's likely a pebble inside the wheel cover. Next, they delve into a listener's 1987 Toyota Celica GT with an overheating problem, diagnosing the issue as a faulty radiator. Finally, they address a listener's concern about hot lug nuts on his Honda Accord, assuring him that it's likely due to normal brake operation and not a problem with the calipers. Throughout the episode, the brothers provide humorous commentary and insightful advice, making it an entertaining and informative listen for car enthusiasts.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction and Listener Call: Shaking Ford Escort

This Chapter introduces the show and features a listener call about a 1987 Ford Escort that makes a shaking noise. The Tapet Brothers diagnose the issue as a pebble inside the wheel cover, providing a humorous and insightful solution.

00:00:16
Listener Call: Overheating Toyota Celica GT

This Chapter features a listener call about a 1987 Toyota Celica GT with an overheating problem. The Tapet Brothers diagnose the issue as a faulty radiator, emphasizing the importance of flow testing the radiator to ensure proper water flow.

00:29:04
Listener Call: Hot Lug Nuts on Honda Accord

This Chapter features a listener call about hot lug nuts on a Honda Accord. The Tapet Brothers assure the listener that the hot lug nuts are likely due to normal brake operation and not a problem with the calipers, providing a humorous and reassuring response.

Keywords

Ford Escort


The Ford Escort is a compact car that was produced by Ford from 1968 to 2003. It was known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 1987 Ford Escort was a popular model in the United States, known for its reliability and durability.

Toyota Celica GT


The Toyota Celica GT is a sports coupe that was produced by Toyota from 1970 to 2005. It was known for its sporty handling, powerful engines, and stylish design. The 1987 Toyota Celica GT was a popular model in the United States, known for its performance and affordability.

Honda Accord


The Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan that has been produced by Honda since 1976. It is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. The 1987 Honda Accord was a popular model in the United States, known for its durability and value.

Overheating


Overheating is a condition that occurs when the engine of a vehicle becomes too hot. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty radiator, a clogged cooling system, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Overheating can damage the engine if it is not addressed promptly.

Lug Nuts


Lug nuts are the nuts that secure the wheels to the axles of a vehicle. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and are tightened to a specific torque specification. Lug nuts can become hot due to friction from the brakes, especially during heavy braking.

Calipers


Calipers are the components of a brake system that clamp the brake pads against the rotors to slow or stop a vehicle. They are typically made of cast iron or aluminum and are attached to the brake rotors by lug nuts. Calipers can become seized if they are not properly lubricated or if they are exposed to excessive heat.

Brake Pads


Brake pads are the friction material that is used to slow or stop a vehicle. They are typically made of a composite material that includes metal, ceramic, or organic fibers. Brake pads wear down over time and need to be replaced periodically.

Rotors


Rotors are the metal discs that are attached to the axles of a vehicle and are used to slow or stop the vehicle. They are typically made of cast iron or aluminum and are attached to the wheels by lug nuts. Rotors can become warped or damaged if they are exposed to excessive heat or if they are not properly maintained.

Q&A

  • What is the most common cause of a shaking noise in a Ford Escort?

    The Tapet Brothers suggest that a pebble inside the wheel cover is the most likely cause of a shaking noise in a Ford Escort.

  • What should you do if your Toyota Celica GT is overheating?

    The Tapet Brothers recommend having the radiator flow tested to ensure proper water flow. If the radiator is faulty, it will need to be replaced.

  • Why are the lug nuts on my Honda Accord hot after driving?

    The Tapet Brothers explain that hot lug nuts are a normal occurrence after driving, especially in hot climates, due to friction from the brakes.

Show Notes

Spencer from Florida was riding down the highway in his Honda without a care in the world when he was hit with an urgent need to touch his lug nuts. How normal is that? Find out on this episode of the Best of Car Talk.
Get access to hundreds of episodes in the Car Talk archive when you sign up for Car Talk+ at plus.npr.org/cartalk

Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices

NPR Privacy Policy
Comments 
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

#2452: Go Ahead, Touch 'em!

#2452: Go Ahead, Touch 'em!