Questions and Answers
Straight answers from this episode—manual transmissions, recalls, collision parts, insurance totals, and smart used-car ownership.
Are manual transmissions actually making a comeback in the U.S.?
They’re showing a small comeback, especially in performance models. The show mentioned reports of manual sales ticking up, even though automatics still dominate overall. For many drivers, it’s about the fun, control, and nostalgia of shifting gears.
Why do some newer drivers have trouble driving a manual transmission?
A lot of younger drivers learned only on automatics, so the clutch-and-shift coordination is unfamiliar. The hosts see it in shops when someone is asked to move a manual vehicle and can’t. With practice in a safe area, most people can learn the basics pretty quickly.
How do paddle shifters compare to a true manual transmission?
Paddle shifters let you choose gears without a clutch pedal, so it’s a blend of automatic convenience and manual control. You still get the feel of “commanding” the shifts, but the car handles clutch work for you. It’s common on sporty vehicles that offer both driving styles.
What was the ‘mystery fuel loss’ tech tip quiz answer for the 2019 F-150?
The truck had a remote-start feature programmed to start automatically every morning and idle to warm up. The owner didn’t hear it because the truck was parked away from the bedroom, so it quietly burned fuel before he ever drove it. Reprogramming the remote-start schedule stopped the fuel drain.
If my vehicle seems to be using fuel while parked, what should I check first?
Check for any remote-start settings, timers, or scheduled start features—especially if you just bought the vehicle. Also look for signs of leaks or fuel smell, but remember idling can burn more fuel than people realize. If you’re unsure, a shop can confirm the settings and scan for related issues.
What Ford recall issue did the show highlight, and why does it matter?
They discussed a Ford recall tied to rear camera display problems that can reduce your ability to see behind you. The show mentioned it affecting a large number of vehicles and being linked to accidents, with issues traced to programming rather than crash damage. If you receive a recall notice, schedule the fix so you’re not driving with a safety feature that may fail.
Are aftermarket body parts a problem in collision repairs?
Aftermarket parts can be fine, but quality varies—especially on safety-related panels like bumper covers, hoods, and fenders. The episode discussed CAPA-certified parts and also parts that have been decertified, which is a red flag. If your car was repaired recently, ask the shop what parts were installed and whether any current notices apply.
What should you do if you think your total-loss settlement offer is too low?
Get a second opinion on the vehicle’s actual cash value and be ready to challenge the valuation with better comps. On the show, a family was offered $18,000 for a van and ended up at $24,000 after a deeper valuation and appraiser conversations. The key is documentation and not accepting the first number if it doesn’t match the market.
Can Carfax miss an accident when you’re buying a used car?
Yes—sometimes there’s a lag before an accident shows up, so a ‘clean’ report at purchase can change later. The show shared an example where an accident appeared on the report months after the buyer bought the vehicle. That’s why a pre-purchase inspection and a careful walk-around matter.
What used-car maintenance items did the hosts say people often overlook?
Beyond oil changes, they stressed checking timing belt history (if your engine uses one) and servicing fluids like transmission and differential fluid. On 4WD vehicles, that includes the transfer case and front/rear differentials. If maintenance history is unknown, a trusted shop can help you build a catch-up plan to avoid expensive surprises.
