The Best of Car Talk

#2654: Clean Underwear in a Can

Whether it is a squeaky brake caliper, a failing water pump, or a CV joint, callers seek advice on strange car sounds.

#2653: Mechanic with Benefits

Diagnose faulty level ride systems, squeaky vintage bus axles, and crunchy Ferrari gearboxes with expert advice.

#2652: Bozo's Garage

A warped disc rotor causes a metallic frog-like noise, while a faulty viscous coupling makes turning a nightmare.

#2651: Baddabing! Baddabang!

Diagnose a Jeep Cherokee's dragging clutch, screeching brakes on a Camry, and a mysterious banging Dodge Caravan.

#2650: Non Impediti Ratione Cogitationis

Troubleshoot a jerky Nissan Stanza, a pitted Acura windshield, and a vibrating VW Jetta with a mysterious hum.

#2631: The MechanXfiles

In this episode of The Best of Car Talk, Tom and Ray Magliozzi step away from standard automotive repair to explore the strange and unexplainable side of life on the road. The brothers delve into bizarre listener tales, ranging from the mysterious concept of the speed of darkness to peculiar occurrences that sound like they belong in a science fiction novel. Listeners are treated to humorous segments featuring a laying on of hands and reports of paranormal activity unfolding in the most unlikely of places, including the Pentagon parking lot. As always, the hosts navigate these oddities with their signature wit and infectious laughter, offering a lighthearted escape for anyone who enjoys a good mystery alongside their car advice. It is a delightfully eccentric installment that proves even the most grounded mechanics can find themselves venturing into the unknown.

#2630: Private Mag Lee Ozee!

In this classic episode of The Best of Car Talk, Tom and Ray Magliozzi take a humorous trip down memory lane to recount their personal experiences with compulsory military service. Listeners are treated to a rare and candid glimpse into the hosts' lives long before they became famous car experts, specifically focusing on the challenges they faced during basic training. Through their signature wit and storytelling, the brothers detail the absurdity of their time in uniform and the struggle to maintain their sanity under the pressure of drill instructors. Fans of the show can expect plenty of laughs as the hosts swap stories about their service days, providing a nostalgic look at a transformative period in their youth. It is a lighthearted and entertaining installment that highlights the legendary chemistry and comedic timing that defined their beloved program.

#2629: The Babysitter Tells All

In this classic episode of The Best of Car Talk, hosts Tom and Ray Magliozzi navigate a unique negotiation with a listener named Faith from Washington. Faith arrives with a proposition for the brothers: she offers to divulge a series of mortifying and long-kept secrets from the childhood of their wayward producer, Dougie Berman, in exchange for expert mechanical advice. The hosts eagerly accept the challenge, leading to a hilarious exchange that balances their trademark automotive wisdom with lighthearted personal ribbing. Listeners can expect the usual blend of signature belly laughs, practical car troubleshooting, and the eccentric charm that has made the show a staple for years. It is a quintessential outing that highlights the brothers' playful dynamic and their uncanny ability to turn any conversation into a memorable and entertaining experience for their audience.

#2628: Big Freshman on Campus

In this episode of The Best of Car Talk, hosts Tom and Ray Magliozzi tackle a relatable dilemma for a parent and student. A mother calls in to discuss her son’s upcoming freshman year at Boston University, where he hopes to secure a flashy new vehicle to boost his social standing. However, the hosts are quick to shut down the idea, citing their own ongoing frustrations with the notoriously difficult parking situation on the university's campus. Instead of encouraging the purchase, Click and Clack weigh in with their signature humor to debate whether a car is truly a necessity for a first-year student. Listeners can expect plenty of witty banter and practical advice as the brothers brainstorm clever, non-automotive alternatives to help this student navigate his transition to college life without the burden of a parking nightmare.