Talking Cars 486: The All Questions Episode
We answer your questions about what car to buy, which tires to choose, and whether to pay extra for rustproofing
Main theme: This week, the podcast panel opens the mailbag to answer your pressing questions about car buying, maintenance, safety, and the auto industry. We even bring in some special guests!
Audience Questions
• Should I get a new car if my really old car still works fine?
• Does the “don’t buy a new car in its first year” rule apply to reliable brands like Subaru and Toyota?
• Can I downgrade my wheels and tires for a smoother ride?
• How does CR predict reliability?
• Is rustproofing worth it?
Plus, we give car-buying advice and defend our opinions on regenerative braking.
Learn more about how CR tests cars.
Photo: Consumer Reports Photo: Consumer Reports
How to Listen
“Talking Cars with Consumer Reports” episodes are available through Apple Podcasts (audio or video), audio on Spotify (log-in required), video on YouTube, and on CR’s video hub.
Engage with the “Talking Cars” community.
Recent Episodes
• Driving the Lucid Gravity, episode 485
• 2026 Hyundai Palisade, episode 484
• 2026 Top Pick Tires, episode 483
• Driving the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, episode 482
• Driving the Volkswagen Tiguan, episode 481
Have a Question?
Send a text or video message to TalkingCars@iCloud.com. Please include your first name and where you’re from, and we might feature it in a future episode.
Talking Cars
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