Car Talk #2523: Elsa's Driving Dilemma and Car Repair Advice

Chrysler Minivan Recall Discussion

• 🚗 The hosts revisit past comments about Chrysler minivans, specifically the rear latch issue, which led to legal threats from Chrysler.
• 💡 A CBS report suggested Chrysler attempted to influence NHTSA to avoid a recall, with Chrysler allegedly helping congressmen write letters to NHTSA.
• 🗣️ The hosts clarify they were reporting on CBS's claims and their own 'feelings' about the situation, not stating facts.

1992 Sunbird Rear Defroster Noise

• 🔊 A caller describes a loud, persistent noise from her 1992 Sunbird when the rear defroster is on, which stops when the defroster is off.
• 💡 The hosts explain this is likely a malfunctioning rear defroster relay timer and advise checking if it was actually replaced.
• 🛠️ They suggest asking the mechanic directly why the relay wasn't replaced if it's the only component that can make such a noise.

1993 Chrysler LeBaron Convertible Steering Issue

• 🚗 A service manager calls about a binding sensation when turning his girlfriend's 1993 LeBaron convertible, which then releases.
• 🤔 Potential causes discussed include a CV joint, strut cushions, and most likely, the rack and pinion steering gear.
• ⚠️ The hosts recommend testing the steering gear by disconnecting tie rods and applying pressure, warning that a failing steering gear can have dire consequences.

1986 Voyager Rough Idle and Stalling

• 💨 A caller with an 86 Voyager experiences rough idling, a strong exhaust smell, and stalling after idling for a long time.
• ⚙️ The hosts theorize the secondary throttle plate may not be closing completely, causing a rich fuel mixture, or that the EGR valve is stuck open.
• 🔧 They advise checking the secondary throttle and EGR valve as potential solutions.

Stump the Chumps: 1989 Dodge Colt Vista Ticking Noise

• 👂 Mary called about a ticking noise in her 1989 Dodge Colt Vista, which disappeared when accelerating.
• 💡 The hosts correctly guessed the noise was from loose spark plugs, which were tightened by an archaeologist friend.
• ⚠️ Unfortunately, the timing belt broke two months later, fulfilling the hosts' earlier (joking) prediction of needing a new engine.

New Puzzler: Ferrari and Renault in a Movie

• 🎬 The new puzzler asks to identify a famous movie featuring both a Ferrari and a Renault in prominent roles.
• 🏆 Correct answers will receive the new album "Men Are from GM, Women are from Ford, and Lawyers are from Chrysler."

Elsa's Driving Return at 70

• 👵 Elsa, a retired anthropology professor, learned to drive at 15 but hasn't driven since and wants to drive to her 70th birthday 'croning ceremony'.
• 🤔 The hosts advise her to attend a driving school rather than relying on a friend, emphasizing the need for proper training and testing.
• 🚗 They assure her that modern cars are much easier to drive and that with practice, she can achieve her goal.

1976 Toyota Celica Digital Display Issue

• 💡 A caller has a 1976 Toyota Celica with a digital LED display that constantly flashes system messages (battery, radiator, brakes, etc.).
• 🚫 The hosts suggest either black taping the display or unplugging it to stop the distraction, humorously advising to smash it if it becomes too much.
• 🔧 They confirm that while the system was functional originally, it's now a hazard and can be safely disabled.