Car Talk: Fixing Brakes, Starting Issues, and Driving Dynamics

Car Talk Hall of Fame & Listener Mail

• 🏆 The show discusses inducting William M. Jeffers into the Car Talk Hall of Fame for instituting the 35 mph speed limit during WWII to save rubber.
• ✉️ Nominations for the Hall of Fame can be sent to Car Talk Plaza, Boston, MA.

Ignition Key and Starting Problems

• 🔑 A caller named Suanne had her ignition key break off in the ignition, leaving half the key in the lock.
• 💡 The hosts suggest that the car can still be started and driven, and recommend doing nothing unless the car is stolen.
• 🚗 Another caller, Mike, experiences hard starting on hot, humid days with his 1990 Infiniti, which the hosts attribute to potential heat-related issues or vapor lock.

Driving Dynamics and Skidding

• 🌧️ John from Boulder, Colorado, inquires about the technique of "turning into the skid" during a rain-induced skid.
• 🧠 The hosts explain that turning into the skid means steering in the direction the rear of the car is sliding to regain control and prevent flipping.
• ⚠️ They suggest practicing skidding in a safe environment like an iced-over supermarket parking lot.

Brake Issues and Mechanic Advice

• 🛑 Mary Joe from South Carolina reports uneven brake wear on her 1988 Nissan Sentra, with the right brake wearing faster.
• 🔧 A mechanic suggested a sticky caliper, but the Nissan dealership claimed it's normal due to the crown of the road, which the hosts find dubious.
• 💰 The hosts advise Mary Joe to get the brake job done by a trusted mechanic and then have the dealership replace the caliper under warranty, calling the dealership's explanation "sleazy".

Car Buying Advice

• 🤔 Nancy from Washington D.C. is looking for a new car after 13 years with a Volkswagen Dasher and wants something with "jazz" to meet guys.
• 🚗 Suggestions include the Toyota Celica or Acura Integra, with the Celica being recommended for its sporty appeal and price point under $20,000.
• 💡 The hosts humorously suggest that a kayak could be instrumental in meeting guys, but ultimately advise Nancy to forget the kayak and stick with the Celica.