Let’s Talk Wheels

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum have the automotive news, reviews, interviews, and tips you’re looking for! Learn the ins and outs of the auto and power sports industry, where (and when) to spend your money, and when to save it. Listening to Let’s Talk Wheels can help your vehicle last a little longer, and you will have fun along the way!

Episodes

May 9, 2026

44 min

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum tackle this week’s biggest automotive stories: Honda’s massive EV losses and the resulting delays to mass-market models, rumors of Ford reviving the Ranchero name, and Mazda filing trademarks for new CX crossovers. They also review the blisteringly quick 2026 Cadillac Optiq V‑Series EV and sit down with GM’s Maria Thomas about training the next generation of technicians.
The episode finishes with classic car and hot rod Q&A from Jeremy, news on body‑on‑frame vehicles making a comeback, and a lively roundup of tips and tales for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

May 2, 2026

44 min

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum cover this week's major industry news: Jaguar Land Rover recalls roughly 170,000 hybrids for a power loss risk with no repair available yet, Nissan issues an airbag inspection for certain Cubes, and Volkswagen recalls Taos SUVs over a fuel sensor issue.
We also review the 2026 Nissan Frontier Pro‑4X, get a lively NASCAR/Talladega update from Racing Mogul Carl Benton about the Cleetus McFarland phenomenon and Carson Hosevar’s first win, answer classic car Q&A, and share an Infiniti QX60 first drive.

Apr 25, 2026

39 min

Buckle up for Let’s Talk Wheels with Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum as they cover the week’s top automotive headlines: Honda minivan airbag recalls and radar-emblem thefts, Nissan’s plans to revive its rugged lineup, Hyundai/Kia truck teasers, and market sales trends.
Also inside: a review of the 2026 Land Rover Range Rover Sport PHEV, a sit-down with longtime racing expert Carl Benton on Formula 1, NASCAR and IndyCar, plus classic car Q&A — a packed episode for car lovers.

Apr 18, 2026

39 min

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum run through this week’s auto news: another aluminum supply fire affecting Ford and other makers, a large Hyundai seat-belt anchor recall, and Chevy Malibu rear-view camera problems.
The hosts also review the Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo, answer classic-car questions about late‑’90s GM OBS trucks, and interview Charlie Gambolos about the massive Pate Swap Meet — plus brief talk on motorsports venue protection laws and Tesla FSD jailbreaks.

Apr 11, 2026

39 min

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum cover the latest auto news: VW will continue the ID Buzz production next year, Chrysler issues an urgent airbag recall for Pacifica/Voyager models, and Nissan warns dealers to park 2026 Leafs outside due to a battery fire risk. They also discuss soaring Mustang sales, review the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness, answer classic car questions, and speak with GM about distracted driving.

Apr 4, 2026

39 min

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum cover this week’s top automotive stories: a man arrested after driving a stolen car to his auto-theft hearing, Honda ending its EV partnership with Sony, and Volkswagen’s recall of 48,000 Jettas over a fire risk.
Also discussed: AAA’s findings on dangerous headlight glare, a review of the 2026 Chevy Blazer EV SS, and RVing advice from Bryon Johnson of DeMontrond RV. Practical tips and listener car questions round out the episode. #DeMontrond #DemontrondRV #Sony #VWJetta #BlazerSS #HondaEV
 

Mar 28, 2026

39 min

Hosts Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum cover the week’s top automotive stories: Volvo’s drop in reliability rankings, the glut of 850,000 unsold 2025 models with big rebates, and GM’s testing of Level 3 autonomous driving.
They review the 2026 Nissan Armada Nismo, discuss Ford’s multi-year partnership with Major League, Minor League, and Little League Baseball, and test a discreet FitCam X dash cam installation.
The episode closes with practical car-care advice on GDI engines, fuel choices, coolant maintenance, and a classic-car segment on El Camino values.

Mar 21, 2026

39 min

It's time to buckle up for this week's Let's Talk Wheels with Mike Herzen and Jeremy Birenbaum. We cover counterfeit parts sold online, a Toyota Highlander recall affecting over half a million vehicles, and Hyundai pausing Palisade sales after more than 68,000 seat defects.
We also have the scoop on the 2027 Ford Super Duty, a detailed drive and review of the Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn, buying tips for classic Corvettes, and advice on dealer fees and how to check recalls.

Mar 14, 2026

39 min

Mike Herzing and Jeremy Birenbaum cover the latest automotive headlines: the shock of $9,000 BMW laser headlights, rising negative equity in car loans, Ford’s factory-backed supercharger kits for F-150s, and reviews of the 2026 Lexus GX 550 and Nissan Kicks.
The episode also features classic-car buying tips, a discussion with SEMA’s senior VP about proposed right-to-modify legislation, and listener questions on Beetles and auction shopping, all packed into one busy show.

Feb 28, 2026

38 min

We unpack the latest J.D. Power quality survey and its surprises, including Lexus leading and Toyota slipping, and detail two engine recalls affecting 2023–2025 Nissan Rogues.
Mike and Jeremy give a fun review of the 2026 Toyota Corolla XSE sedan, answer listener questions about restoring a 1970 Tempest, and share practical car-care tips.
Plus an interview about the upcoming Pate Swap Meet, insight on a wave of EVs coming off lease and where buyers can find strong deals on used electric cars.

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