Gear Related

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 Muscarella Gift Links: https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Bluetooth-Cancelling-Headphones-Hands-Free/dp/B08KY684PB http://www.foval.cn/en/ProductView.Asp?ID=8 https://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=8-5 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SGBR7T8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1 https://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=1 https://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=1 https://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=8-4 https://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=1 https://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 Muscarella Song 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.

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.

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!

The theft of catalytic converters from vehicles has increased exponentially. Ben and Heather discuss why and what you can do to protect your vehicle. Featuring “2020 Vision” by Makaih Beats

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

It's the 2021 edition of Fear Related! Gear Related listeners share their "horrifying" stories of what happened to them while driving. It's just plain scary.

It's another fan favorite! They Almost Fixed It, and some repairs you really shouldn't try at home. With some (hilarious?) consequences...

It's another installment of Solid Car Company, Bad Idea. We'll discuss some cars that made many of the industry's least coveted lists of "worst cars ever". Listen in to some of the worst platforms that auto manufacturers may have come to regret.

What color car is the safest to drive? Gets pulled over less? The color of your car can be an identity, a target, a visual stunner, or let's face it, really weird. Find out all about color and its pros and cons on this latest episode!

Why can't anyone agree on maintenance? Ben and Heather give you the lowdown on why there is discrepancies in maintenance service in the industry and how you can avoid unneeded repairs and maintain your vehicle appropriately.

Over the last half a century, we've been sending vehicles to the moon. They're still there. On this episode, Heather tells you how they performed and improved over the years. And yes, duct tape was involved.

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.

Come 2035 we may have no choice but to buy an electric vehicle. What are the implications and what does it mean for us? Listen in as Ben and Heather discuss what's coming down the New York legislative pipeline.

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. Don't buy until you've listened to this podcast!

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. Let's talk about how automakers, aftermarket, and smart kids are trying to prevent them.

It's the 50th episode of Gear Related! We're bringing it back to the beginning 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.

There's something rotten in the state of Nissan. How does a CEO escape prosecution in a suitcase? Don't miss this scandalous episode of Gear Related!

Parts. Where do they come from? Why are they cheaper online? Why is no one telling me that they can be counterfeit? Oh snap! Ben and Heather will tell you.

It's another edition of Iconic Cars! Listen in to hear all the amazing details behind the Munster's Koach and another bonus...er...uh...car?

Manufacturers of Automobiles have been hiding Easter Eggs in their vehicles for years. Listen in to find out where your eggs might be hidden!

Celebrate Women's History Month with Ben and Heather as they bring you some women pioneers in the automotive world.

It's time for another edition of "They Almost Fixed It!" Also, Ben and Heather discuss some repairs you may not want to try at home. Oh, and bad Porsche. Bad.

Ben and Heather discuss some influential African Americans in automotive history. From inventors to NASCAR drivers, these black men and women changed history.