#2060 - What Does Your Car Say About You? | First Show in the New Studio

The C&C Auto Show discusses a report showing the average used vehicle listing price reached $27,235 in September, nearly 6% higher than a year earlier. Vehicles priced below $15,000 are especially difficult to find because affordable used cars are being purchased quickly. The crew also points out that keeping a dependable vehicle you already own may be a better financial decision than replacing it.

A total loss settlement should reflect the vehicle's actual cash value at the time of the accident. David Clark explains that current used car prices can make vehicles worth more than owners realize. He recommends reviewing comparable vehicles and having the settlement evaluated before accepting an offer. His company, Collision Safety Consultants of Georgia, offers a free initial analysis to help determine whether a settlement is fair.

Title washing involves concealing or misrepresenting important information about a vehicle's history, including salvage or theft records. The crew discusses cases involving altered vehicle identification numbers and fraudulent vehicle sales. They recommend being especially cautious when buying vehicles online or from out-of-town sellers. A professional pre-purchase inspection can help identify potential problems before money changes hands.

A caller with a 2012 Ram 1500 asks whether using his transmission's gear selection feature to avoid fuel-saving operation could damage the engine. The C&C Auto Show explains that the driving method he describes should not harm the engine. The discussion also covers cylinder deactivation systems and why some drivers prefer improved driving performance over a small fuel economy benefit.

The crew discusses engine problems associated with GM Active Fuel Management systems, including camshaft and lifter concerns. They explain that aftermarket devices are available to disable certain fuel management functions. However, they caution that dealerships may be able to detect previous use of these devices, potentially affecting warranty coverage. Their recommendation is to avoid using such devices while the vehicle remains under factory warranty.

A caller describes a 2008 Nissan Titan that cranks normally but struggles to start when temperatures drop. The crew identifies several possible causes, including incorrect temperature sensor readings, carbon buildup, and a dirty mass airflow sensor. They recommend checking for diagnostic trouble codes and inspecting the throttle body before replacing expensive components. They also emphasize checking battery condition as colder weather approaches.

The crew compares used electric vehicle prices with gasoline and hybrid vehicle prices. They explain that an electric vehicle may make sense for someone who primarily drives around town, depending on local fuel costs and driving habits. Battery condition and remaining battery life are important considerations when shopping for a used EV. Drivers who frequently travel long distances may find a gasoline-powered vehicle more practical.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers that can help law enforcement identify and locate vehicles. The crew discusses how this technology can assist with missing-person investigations and serious criminal cases. They also raise concerns about tracking routine driving patterns, misuse of vehicle location information, and potential privacy violations. The discussion focuses on balancing public safety benefits with responsible oversight.

The C&C Auto Show explains that professional headlight restoration can be considerably less expensive than replacing an entire assembly. Their restoration process involves progressively sanding and polishing the plastic lens before applying a protective coating. They discuss restoration costs around $150 compared with replacement assemblies that can cost several hundred dollars each. The crew also warns that some inexpensive aftermarket headlights may develop peeling or coating problems over time.

The crew recommends checking your battery, tires, headlights, and exterior lighting before colder weather arrives. A battery that performed adequately during warmer months may struggle when temperatures drop. Cloudy headlights can also become a greater concern when drivers spend more time traveling after dark. Taking care of these items before winter can help prevent unexpected problems.