Gear Related: Recent Episodes
Schoen Auto
The Hertz rental company has been doing some not so friendly things to their customer base. If you've ever rented a car or plan to in the future, you may want to listen to this episode to avoid some jail time. Heather breaks down the story that has landed some folks in jail for not stealing cars. Also, that rental car you just got into may have some un-repaired recalls. Listen and learn how you can protect yourself.Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Ben and Heather ring in the new year with several news stories that may excite, scare, or anger you. Are digital license plates headed to your state? Tesla is experiencing some serious issues with customer service. Also, there's more car companies coming for your data. Honda is working on a new Hydrogen Fuel Cell for one of their popular models and a Supercar company may have the answer to FCEV's.Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
As we take a little break for the holidays, here is an episode from the past we hope you enjoy. Have an awesome holiday season and keep yourself warm during these cold winter months. Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
As we take a little break for the holidays, here is an episode from the past we hope you enjoy about some winter car myths. Have an awesome holiday season and keep yourself warm during these cold winter months. Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Are you still looking for that perfect gift for your loved one? Or maybe you just need a few more stocking stuffers. Well check out this year's Gear Related Gift Giving Guide. Ben and Heather throw out a bunch of great ideas for that car lover in your life along with some very handy and helpful gadgets that make traveling a bit more easy and a bit more fun!Production and Music: Mike MuscarellaGift Links:https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Bluetooth-Cancelling-Headphones-Hands-Free/dp/B08KY684PBhttp://www.foval.cn/en/ProductView.Asp?ID=8https://www.amazon.com/LUXON-Emergency-Flashlight-Contains-Cranking/dp/B01LZAHT64/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=7+in+1+car+charger+safety+tool&qid=1669992890&sprefix=7+in+1%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-5https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SGBR7T8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1https://www.amazon.com/Ampper-Waterproof-Underglow-Offroad-Underbody/dp/B01LZU3DWG/ref=sr_1_2?crid=NI6RKS93DHII&keywords=ampper%2Bexterior%2Bled%2Blight%2Bcar&qid=1669995138&sprefix=ampper%2Bexterior%2Bled%2Blight%2Bcar%2Caps%2C66&sr=8-2&th=1https://www.amazon.com/Interior-Govee-Two-Line-Waterproof-Controller/dp/B07Q6CPQK4/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1AWHOACTD7PKY&keywords=govee+led+light+car&qid=1669995372&sprefix=govee+led+light+car%2Caps%2C102&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEySkEwTlU3Q01NM0hGJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUExMDA2NTc3MURNUkFKSjNJNzdETyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwODAxODQ1MTM1MVc0SjdHSUk4QSZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=https://www.amazon.com/Mandalorian-Rotary-Button-Scratch-Decoration/dp/B09MRTN216/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=38V5LOAX0UO4B&keywords=mandalorian%2Bpush%2Bbutton&qid=1669995649&sprefix=mandolorian%2Bpush%2Bbutton%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-1-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExVkFLRjNQVE9EMDAyJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMjgyNzg0MkRUM1VGWFJINUc5WiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDg3MDEzM0ozUkFVVVk0RktUMyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&th=1https://www.amazon.com/Missiles-Cigarette-Lighter-Citadel-Black/dp/B06XB2FLYB/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=fire+missile+cigarette+lighter+plug&qid=1669995939&sprefix=fire+missle%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-4https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Enrichment-PureZone-Portable-Purifier/dp/B087M2ZWXR/ref=sr_1_7_sspa?crid=1FUK9JO8VUVBK&keywords=ionic%2Bair%2Bpurifier%2Bfor%2Bcar&qid=1669996525&sprefix=ionic%2Bai%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-7-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzRFVBWEQ5SjVSUEZYJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNzk4MzQ0M0E4OUlPWUQ5QVZRWCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMzU3NzcwMUw5TFVBTkQ0UldLOSZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX210ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&th=1https://www.classicautomall.com/vehicles/3981/1989-batmobile-w-b
More and more advance driver assist systems, or ADAS, are being developed and added to cars every year. Ben and Heather discuss some new ones that manufacturers have developed and are working on. These include government mandated ones such as drunk driving detection, rear seat reminders and even speed limiters. Listen in to find out what's coming next for your vehicle.Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Follow your nose! Anytime your car gives off a smell you don't recognize, it indicates a problem. Ben and Heather discuss some of the smells your car may give off to indicate a problem. If you give a listen, you might just save yourself from expensive repairs or at the very least, find out where the trouble is brewing. So use your ears to listen where your nose can help you!Production and Music: Mike MuscarellaSong inspired by "Dead Skunk In The Middle Od The Road" by Loudon Wainwright III
A fan favorite is back again - Fear Related! This year Ben and Heather, in the spirit of Halloween, bring you some of the most terrifying defects in automotive history. Every once and awhile, a manufacturer ends up having to recall a certain vehicle because of a safety hazard, usually causing injury or even death. Listen in to find out some of the scariest mechanical issues from the past.Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
In Part 2 of this origin story, Ben and Heather bring you the post war story of Jeep. The tale is quite serpentine as the iconic vehicle changed hands from manufacturer to manufacturer until finally coming to land on what we all recognize today as...The Wrangler. Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Jeep has one of the most controversial origins of any automobile manufacturer. Join Ben and Heather as they go back in time to discuss the birth of Jeep and how one of the most iconic vehicles found its way into history. In part 1, you'll hear about the Army's request for the best reconnaissance vehicle and how Bantam, Ford, and Willys Overland competed to create the most versatile machine ever built.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
On August 16th, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law. One of the many facets of this law includes tax credits for electric vehicles. However, there are many stipulations as to how the average consumer can get this tax credit. Ben and Heather wade through the quagmire of necessary steps to get the tax credit and what vehicles may qualify. Also, another "Right To Repair Act" update! Sort of.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Automotive theft has skyrocketed in the U.S. in the last few months, particularly due to a viral challenge from social media. Ben and Heather discuss the "KiaTikTok Challenge" and why so many more thefts are occurring. Of course, maybe the more important part of the discussion is how you can prevent it from happening to you, especially if you own one of the affected cars.
Music and Production: Mike Muscarella
The first of many in a series that brings you inside some of the most amazing car museums from around the globe. Ben and Heather take you inside the Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum with an exclusive interview with the founder, James Sandoro. Listen in to this featured podcast filled with rich history surrounding one of the most amazing car manufacturers that you may never even have heard of.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella Special thanks: James Sandoro and The Buffalo Transportation Pierce-Arrow Museum and staff.
It is becoming more and more common to pay a subscription fee in conjunction with new products. Automakers are not about to miss out on a billion dollar opportunity. What are manufacturers already charging us for features and what do they plan on charging us for next? Ben and Heather discuss the car features already targeted and those slated to become subscription based services.
Automatic and manual transmissions both have pros and cons. What are they and which one is better? Ben and Heather duke it out to determine which transmission is better. Find out the advantages and disadvantages of both and discover which style takes the crown in this automotive battle royal!
It's that wonderful time of the year where there is not a street in sight that doesn't seem to have some orange cones or barrels in it. That's right, it's construction season. Ben and Heather discuss road construction and break down the how, who where, and what roads are chosen to be fixed and how you can monitor the progression. Also, have you ever damaged your car by hitting a pothole? The city that you live in might just owe you some money. Find out on this podcast!
While a lot of auto makers have origins where you might expect, Mazda may surprise you. This Japanese car maker doesn't exactly fit the stereotypical mold of automotive beginnings. Join Ben and Heather as they take you into the past of the car maker who brought us the rotary engined sports car and the well-known sports coupe, the MX-5 Miata. Uncork em if ya got em!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Buying a car is not necessarily the easiest thing to do. But what about for those first time drivers? Is there a better car or more appropriate vehicle for that first time driver who is just getting started in their driving experience? Ben and Heather discuss some of the best features and possible models for that kid that is just aching to get behind the wheel.
In this second installment of Iconic Cars, the Batmobile goes full-out tank and then American muscle. Ben and Heather discuss the "Tumbler" from Christopher Nolan's "Dark Knight" trilogy and give you all the details behind its inception and design. After that, it's the latest iteration from Matt Reave's "Batman" with a Dodge Charger inspired, asphalt-chewing monster. Robert Pattinson sold separately.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
After attending the STX Conference, Ben and Heather bring you some very interesting insights into what's happening in the industry today. Also, an in depth discussion about EV batteries, their impact on the environment and the future of recycling and manufacturing. Find out why not relying on other countries for fossil fuels may just mean relying on someone else for other reasons.
What are the benefits of having a dash cam in your vehicle? Ben and Heather give you the lowdown on why you might consider purchasing a dash cam for your vehicle, all the benefits, and even some models to choose from. Definitely hang out till the end of this one because you don't want to miss where to find some of the best things ever caught on dash cams!
There have been many iterations of the Batmobile over the years and there is a reason a few have been firmly imprinted in our collective entertainment culture. Even if you're not a comic book fan, you would most likely instantly recognize this iconic vehicle. Now because there's been more than one over the years, Ben and Heather will discuss a few of the earlier versions before getting into our modern day ones in Part 1 of this iconic car series.
Music and Production: Mike Muscarella Batman Theme 1966 - Original Composer - Neal Hefti, arranged by Mr. Dooves & F1shard (Triforce Films Sound)
The recent spike in gas prices has garnered a lot of speculation on the reasons why. While it is certainly related to the Russian invasion into Ukraine, it's not the only reason. Ben and Heather explore recent events and dissect what affects gas prices and the reasons governments may not be as well equipped to deal with them in the way we'd like. Also website launch!!!!!!!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella www.gearrelated.com
https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikepatton/2022/03/09/the-real-reason-behind-surging-gas-prices/?sh=654eb2526ded
Aftermarket extended warranties; are they worth it? Ben and Heather break down several of the top aftermarket warranty companies, how they work, and what you need to know. Also, Ben relates some experiences dealing with warranty companies that might make Ice-T rethink his spokespersonshipness.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella Sponsor: Blah Blah Blah Insurance
Todays gasoline engines are about 30 to 35% efficient. That means every time you put a dollar of gas into your tank, a lot of it is getting wasted. What are manufacturers doing to mediate this and what can you do to alter your driving habits that might help? There's also a thing called hypermiling. Tune in to find out what exactly it is. Hint: It's not going faster. Sad face.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
In 2020, the voters of Massachusetts spoke and their "Right to Repair" Act was initiated. 2022 model year vehicles would require some specific equipment to be sold in the state of MA. Well, its 2022 and it doesn't look like one manufacture was able to comply. However, there were two that found an interesting solution. Listen in to hear how auto makers are having a hard time sharing telematics and how this may affect you soon.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella Bonus Track - "Naughty Rhymes" Super Magic WubDub Remix
Car repairs can cost anywhere from a few dollars to a few thousand dollars. These repair bills are broken down into two sections: parts and labor. It's easy to understand how a part would cost a certain amount, but how is labor determined? A mechanic cannot know how long it takes to remove every part from every vehicle that enters the shop, so how and where is that information obtained? It's a deep dive in to the labor guide!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Let's start off with a license plate debacle in Ohio and then move on to one of the most exciting concept EV cars that absolutely, positively needs to be built. After that, the NHTSA gives you the top ten most dangerous foods you probably shouldn't eat in your car, but most likely do. At least some of them anyway.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Featuring AC/DC "Thunder Struck" Pharos Dubstep Remix by Pharos EDM
Have you ever described a noise to your mechanic and totally been embarrassed by the experience? Well, this is your chance to hear a mechanic succumb to the same embarrassment. Ben puts his pride aside, much to Heather's delight, and describes some noises your car may make and why they are happening. Don't miss this episode of Gear Related and let the wonderful reproduced sounds your car may make wash over you.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The Gear Related Gift Giving Guide is back! Find something special for the automotive enthusiast in your life, or even just that special someone that, you know, drives a car. Check out some of the best car related gifts that 2021 has to offer!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella https://boostnatics.com/products/clutch-gas-socks https://www.thespruce.com/best-car-seat-cushions-4771556 https://chgeekdirect.com https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a32293114/get-crafty-with-these-amazing-classic-car-coloring-pages/ https://www.cuff-daddy.com https://hotwheels.mattel.com/shop https://www.meguiars.com/#/ https://www.getkeysmart.com https://mybestsurvivalproducts.com/product/grizzly-gear-emergency-food-rations-3600-calorie-bar-3-day-supply/ https://linearedge.com https://smartchargeamerica.com/electric-car-chargers/home/juicebox-40/ https://www.thextremexperience.com https://virginexperiencegifts.com
It's another edition of Iconic Cars! Ben and Heather tell you all about the V8 Interceptor Pursuit Special featured in the Mad Max movies. Find out everything you didn't know you needed to know about this Australian beauty, built by the Ford Motor Company and modified by some brilliant designers and fabricators. Also, find out where you can buy it!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The theft of catalytic converters from vehicles has increased exponentially. What exactly is it that makes catalytic converters so valuable and why are more and more disappearing? Ben and Heather discuss the cruel and "exhausting" thieving practice and what you can do to protect your vehicle.
Featuring “2020 Vision” by Makaih Beats
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The automotive repair industry will be short approximately 640,000 technicians between now and 2024. Ben and Heather sit down with Chris Langswager and Ray Otto of Monroe Community College's Applied Technology Center to discuss the impact of the shortage and why being in the industry is an excellent career choice. For more information, see the contact information below.
Monroe Community College Applied Technology Center https://www.monroecc.edu/depts/auto/
Ray Otto - Recruiter for the Automotive Programs (585)292-3735 rotto3@monroecc.edu
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's the 2021 edition of Fear Related! Continuing the Halloween tradition, Ben and Heather bring you some more terrifying automotive tales to celebrate this spooky time of year. Gear Related listeners share their "horrifying" stories of what happened to them while driving. It's just plain scary.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's another fan favorite! "They Almost Fixed It," and some repairs you really shouldn't try at home - with some (hilarious?) consequences. You can call it creative or maybe unique, but whatever it may be, it's definitely not by the book. Discover some not necessarily recommended or approved repairs on this episode of Gear Related!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's another installment of Solid Car Company, Bad Idea. Ben and Heather discuss some cars that made many of the industry's least coveted lists of "Worst Cars Ever." Perhaps it was poor planning or lack of funds, but whatever the reasons, this list of vehicles is one to avoid. Listen in to some of the worst platforms that auto manufacturers may have come to regret. And yes, it's time to talk about the Yugo.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
What color car is the safest to drive? Gets pulled over the least? The color of your car can be an identity, a target, a visual stunner, or let's face it, really weird. Some manufactures are bold and others just boring, but what kind of thought goes into choosing them? Find out all about color and its pros and cons on this latest episode!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Why can't anyone agree on maintenance? Ben and Heather give you the lowdown on why there are recommendation discrepancies within the industry and how you can avoid unneeded repairs and maintain your vehicle appropriately. Also, Lifetime is a T.V. channel, not a maintenance interval.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Over the last half a century, we've been sending vehicles to the moon. They're still there. Not all of these moon rovers performed equally, but it's fair to say their determination was stellar! On this episode, Heather tells you how they performed and improved over the years. And yes, duct tape was involved.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The 2017/18/19 Chevy Bolt recall doesn't seem to be working. Because they're still catching fire. Get your popcorn for this "hot" edition of Gear Related as Ben and Heather discuss GM's problem with cars catching fire and their "uninspired" response.
Special Thanks: Scott Cranfill and his Chevy Bolt parked away from structures.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Come 2035 we may have no choice but to buy an electric vehicle. California and now New York have both passed laws requiring all vehicles sold in 2035 to be zero emissions. What are the implications and what does it mean for you? Find out on this episode as Ben and Heather discuss what's coming down the New York legislative pipeline. It's electric!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Have you ever wondered what to look for when buying a used car? Ben and Heather give you the comprehensive buyer's guide to make sure your next car isn't a lemon. Arm yourself with all the information you need to protect yourself against buyers remorse. Don't buy any used car until you've listened to this podcast!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's summer time and cars get hot. Unfortunately, every year reports of children and pets being accidentally left in vehicles with tragic results happen. Automakers, aftermarket, and smart kids are trying to prevent them in ways that are just downright creative and innovative. On this episode, you'll hear about some of the best ideas out there to prevent these tragic occurrences from happening.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's the 50th episode of Gear Related! We're bringing it back to where it all started. And where did we start? Driver's Education. Yeah, that's right, listen as Ben and Heather interview the newest driver to get on the streets and all the catastrophic occurrences along the way. Parents, hide your keys.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
There's something rotten in the state of Nissan. How does a CEO escape prosecution in a suitcase? In 2018, Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Nissan in Japan and Renault in France decided to break a few Japanese laws regarding his finances. Bad Carlos, bad! Don't miss this scandalous episode of Gear Related!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
If you've ever looked up pricing online for the part your mechanic is putting in your vehicle, then you may be wondering why its so much more expensive. Is she/he pulling a fast one on you? Perhaps not all replacement parts are created equal. Or perhaps you should just listen to this episode as Ben and Heather discuss the billion dollar counterfeit auto parts industry and what you can do to protect yourself and your automobile.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's another edition of Iconic Cars! Ben and Heather take you back to the 60's to resurrect a beautiful build for a just as iconic T.V. show - The Munsters. Despite only having two seasons, this eclectic family along with their family ride was imprinted on the minds of viewers to this day. Listen in to hear all the amazing details behind the Munster's Koach and another bonus...er...uh...car?
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Manufacturers of Automobiles have been hiding Easter Eggs in their vehicles for years. Is this a case of manufactures leaving clues to solve a great mystery or just some designers having some fun? Explore some of the hidden gems that maybe even your car is hiding from you on this episode of Gear Related. And no, this episode does not have a button scene.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Women do not often get the credit they deserve in the automotive industry. Celebrate Women's History Month with Ben and Heather as they bring you some female pioneers in the automotive world. From cross-country driving ladies in the early 1900's to a more modern award winning automotive journalist, these women are truly inspirational.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's time for another edition of "They Almost Fixed It!" Hear about some hilarious attempts some folks made to repair their vehicles in ways you might call unique. Also, Ben and Heather discuss some repairs you may not want to try at home for reasons of both safety and the impact it can have on your wallet. Oh, and bad Porsche. Bad.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Ben and Heather discuss some influential African Americans in automotive history. From inventors to NASCAR drivers, these black men and women changed history and should be remembered well and often for the improvements they made to our world.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Today's vehicles collect massive amounts of data. Your car is tracking you and sending all that information back to the manufacturer and maybe to other places as well. Find out what manufacturers are doing with your data and what rights you have when it comes to your privacy.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Hundreds of vehicles are stolen everyday, but it's not everyday that the heist in question becomes so infamous. Tune in to find out about some of the most remembered auto thefts that really are grand. Maybe you can even help solve some of the mysteries of where they are today and why some of them may never be seen again.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The things you do, or maybe don't do, could be costing you money. Ben and Heather discuss some bad driving habits. From heavy keychains to topping off your gas tank, find out how something you may not even be aware of is doing damage to your vehicle.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
What happens when self-driving cars are the norm? What will we gain and what will we lose? Ben and Heather hold a friendly debate over the pros and cons of autonomous vehicles and surprise themselves with the outcome. Whose side will you be on? And how soon will all of our cars be self-driving?
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's time for yet another edition of the Iconic Car Series! Ben and Heather dive back into the 80's with your favorite Trans Am, driven by your favorite beach bounding hero, David Hasselhoff. Get to know K.I.T.T. and every feature this black muscle car has up it's tailpipe and how a talking car uses a multitude of tricks to catch all the bad guys.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's the Gear Related Gift Giving Guide! Let Ben and Heather give you some great ideas for everyone on your list, and maybe even something for yourself!
Driving gloves, lots to choose from - www.thedrive.com/reviews/27295/best-driving-gloves Bellroy Key Cover - www.bellroy.com Demeter New Car Scented Body Care Products - www.demeterfragrance.com/new-car.html Motorized Coffee Company - www.motorizedcoffee.com Respoke Collection Car Portraits - respokecollection.com Legendary Car Canvases - www.carcanvases.com JumpSmart Portable Jump Starter - www.thejumpsmart.com/product/jumpsmart/ Revell Visible V-8 Engine - www.revell.com/products/visible-v-8-engine.html Drop Wipes - https://www.dropproducts.com/?variant=37550891137 Tossits Car Garbage Bags - https://www.tossits.com WeatherTech Floor Liners - https://www.weathertech.com MarioKart 8 Deluxe - https://mariokart8.nintendo.com Urban Relic Design Fordite Jewelry - https://urbanrelicdesign.com/collections/fordite1 QuickJack Portable Jack System - https://www.quickjack.com
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It has been a long and hard road since COVID-19 reared its ugly head. What are automakers doing in response to the pandemic? Cabin disinfecting is only the beginning as manufacturers race to make us all a little safer. Tune in and see which new technology may be the best option for you.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Even the best car companies put out a miss from time to time. Hear about some of the worst lemons that these manufactures probably wish they could take back. This episode features the AMC Gremlin, Ford Pinto, and many more. Park yourself and don't go anywhere. Just like these cars.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It's a halloween version of Gear Related! Sam Raimi has directed many films in multiple genres and there is a certain extra that appears in many if not all of them. Meet the cameo car of all cameo cars that will have you trying to spot a 1973 Oldsmobile Delta 88 in every Raimi film you watch. Dead by Dawn!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Get your car ready for winter! Also, Ben and Heather explore the many variations of rust-proofing your vehicle. In a land of snowy and salty roads, rust is a common fear. But, there are options to keep your car safe or at least safer. Find out which undercoating is the best and why.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
We sit down with Schoen Auto's very own service advisor, Jeff Mangione. He lets us in on the secret world of service writing and what he wishes everyone knew about their cars. You'd be surprised at some of the things a service advisor sees and hears in a day, get some of the dirt here.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
In this episode, hear about a modern day true crime story involving tow trucks, weapons, and even murder. The city of Toronto is shaken up by a mob-run tow truck company that might even have caused Al Capone to blush.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Exploring the origins of the little Italian automaker that exploded and is still with us today! FIAT started small, but made its mark during both World Wars and has made some pretty cool cars. Not every car manufacturer has a roof top race track!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Who you gonna call? In the second episode of the Iconic Car series, the ins and outs of ECTO-1 are explored. Learn where the car came from, what modifications were done, and where it is now. This spooky Cadillac is sure to bring back some slimy nostalgia. Don't ghost this episode!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Let's talk about what your car needs in the summer. Air conditioning services are getting more expensive and you should know what to expect. You may think you can get through the summer without AC, but if it rains, you might be wrong.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
You know something else that has gears? Bicycles. As cities and towns recognize the necessity of bike lanes and walkability, drivers need to be more aware too. Special guest, Tracey Austin, joins Ben and Heather to talk about all things involving not getting hit by a car. Listen, it's dangerous.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Ugly cars, NASCAR, weird things found in cars, stolen cars...yeah, we're all over the place on this one. If you are into podcasts with no discernible theme, this one’s for you. If you aren’t, maybe this will change your mind.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Apps. We all love them. There are some pretty sweet apps for driving and this episode explores some of Ben and Heather’s faves. From gas station finders, to traffic jam avoiders, this episode is jam packed with great apps. Plus, how to make your Prius sound like a Lamborghini Countach.
Bonus! They Almost Fixed It!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
What's the deal with autonomous cars? Ben and Heather give you the low down; how they work, a little history, and where we go from here. They also raise some big questions about barriers to development, liability, and governmental oversight. It’s not all making Tik Tok videos while your car drives you to work.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Heather talks speed and power with some questions for Ben. Is it better to have horsepower or torque? What is the point of drifting? Is your engine noise lying to you? The answers to these questions and more await you once you press the sideways triangle.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
We have learned more about spreading viruses and bacteria in the past few months than we ever wanted to. In this episode, Ben and Heather give you the weapons you need to fight back. Sanitizing your car has just become simple. Finding places to go, well you’re on your own.
Bonus! The iconic car series makes it's debut with the DeLorian DMC-12. Cuz where we're going, we don't need roads.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Now that you know some of the illegal hijinks to avoid while driving, it’s time to explore the stranger side of the law. Don’t drive too slow and make sure your cheetah has its seatbelt on or you could be facing jail time, or at least a fine. The topic so nice, we are delivering it twice.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Have you ever wondered if you were breaking the law for the things you do in your car? Ben and Heather discuss some common and weird things that are illegal to do in your car in some states. So sit down, buckle up (cuz it’s the law), and find out if what you do behind the wheel is a no-no.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Volkswagen, facing almost certain demise after World War II, does everything within its power to survive. Lead by an unlikely entrepreneur, VWs diverse workforce struggles through post war economy, parts shortages, and language barriers. Part 2 of theVolkswagon origin story shows us the dedication of a car company that beat impossible odds.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The automotive manufacturer, Volkswagen, has a fascinating and controversial history. Part I explores the birth of VW until WWII. Join us as Ben lays out the beginnings of the company that gave us the VW Beetle, although it wasn’t actually named the Beetle, but we’ll get into that.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
The myths are back, this time with a winter twist. Ben and Heather give you the cold, hard facts on warming up your car, deicing your windshield, tire traction, and windshield wipers. Let this podcast warm the cockles of your heart.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Hey guys, time to winterize your car! What does that even mean? Winter inspections, undercoating, antifreeze and more. Ben and Heather give you the low down for the snow down.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Rare automobiles have a mystery and excitement surrounding them. Listen in as Heather and Ben explore a rare Ferrari, Dusenburg, and many more. What makes these particular automobiles so valuable and sought after? BTW, any of these cars would make a fantastic gift for Ben and/or Heather. Just in case you were looking for ideas.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
On this special episode, Ben dives deep into conspiracy land. There are a plethora of different answers to the question “When should I change the oil in my car?” Who is behind the discrepancies? Is it possible that even our owners manual gets this wrong? From broken timing chains to smoked turbos, who is to blame for this burning issue?
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Snow tires can be a necessary part of life, especially up north. However, the options can be confusing and expensive. Ben shoots knowledge bullets straight at your brain to help you save money. Also, some tips to mentally survive the winter months.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
People do some weird stuff to their cars. Sometimes it’s cool. Sometimes it’s annoying. And sometimes it’s totally illegal. Find out what’s what depending on which state you’re in. Better give this one a listen before you start tinkering.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Renowned storyteller, Penny Sterling joins Gear Related to spin a marvelous yarn about cars, parents, and bowling cats. So brew some tea, toast your biscuits, and curl up by the fire. Are you not entertained?
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
In this special Halloween edition, Ben and Heather relate some spooky car stories from staff of Schoen Auto, listeners, and others. Make sure your dome light is on and your car doors are locked for this one. Mwahhahhahhhaa!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
We all have our favorite car features, from seat warmers to Bluetooth. But there are so many more gadgets, some you may not even know about. Ben and Heather discuss the features in several cars, including some that are down right mind blowing. Special guest, Lori Meath, from the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester.
Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester www.bccr.org
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
We might not be building a Death Star here, but we will rebel against some more misleading myths. Do fuel additives improve engine performance? Does refilling brake fluid solve the problem? Does repairing my vehicle outside of the dealer void my warranty? And some weird auto news. Of course.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
We’ve all locked ourselves out of our car or house at some point. Join Ben and Heather with special guest, April Wiesner, from Pop-A-Lock of Greater Rochester and hear some wild and wacky stories of what people do when they're locked out of their car.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
A band van is essential when touring from gig to gig. These musicians learned a tough lesson on why you shouldn’t park your van next to the Secret of Nimh. Special Guests Mel and Mike Muscarella from Violet Mary share a woeful, awful, downright disgusting tale involving some furry friends.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Sometimes, car repairs don't go as planned. Mechanics and owners alike can get a little too creative under the hood. Whether it’s a “temporary” repair or a “ DIY” fix, the outcome can leave you scratching your head. Join Ben and Heather for some hilarious repairs that aren't, shall we say, recommended.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
It’s no secret that teenagers behind the wheel are a high risk enterprise. There is a reason car insurance costs rise when your kid turns 16. Ben and Heather (now that the statute of limitations is up) let you in on some of the dumb things they did as adolescent drivers.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
Heather brings us the tale of Bertha Benz, the first automobile, and leather brake pads. You won’t need a time machine for this one. Heather takes you back to discover the beginning of the automobile and the pioneers behind it. Behind many great inventors is a great woman, who improved it.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
In case you didn’t get enough myth busting madness, here’s part two! Ben and Heather discuss tune-ups, premium gas, and more. Can you use telepathy to increase the range of your key fob? Find out here!
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella
In the automotive repair industry, there are some common beliefs that may not actually be true. Ben and Heather discuss some of these car related myths and separate fact from fiction. Myths about tire pressure, car wash soap, and oil change intervals are explored. Find out why it’s important to understand these misconceptions.
Production and Music: Mike Muscarella