Published by Tim Esterdahl
We cover the U.S. pickup truck and SUV market bringing you fun reviews, interesting tidbits and real consumer concerns about these vehicles.
Listen on Apple PodcastsSend us Fan Mail The 2020-2026 Toyota Highlander has a reputation for reliability, but owners and used-vehicle shoppers should know about recalls, transmission complaints, ECU-related stalls and several other reported problems. Cory Fourniquet examines the Highlander’s loose second-row seats, airbag concerns, transmission whining, hybrid braking behavior, infotainment glitches and unusual fuel-tank readings. He also explains how owners can check their VIN for open recalls before buying or servicing a Highlander. Plus, this week’s Truck News Recap covers pricing for the new Ram Rumblebee lineup, including the first 6.4-liter HEMI offered in a Ram 1500 and the nearly $100,000, 777-horsepower Rumblebee SRT. Toyota also updates the 2027 Tundra TRD Pro with front recovery hooks, adjustable Fox shocks and the new Honeycomb exterior color. The episode also highlights the Pickup Truck + SUV Talk Reliability Center, the new We Talk Cars website and the monthly Screen ProTech giveaway. Visit Pickup Truck + SUV Talk: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/ Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Which full-size truck is the most reliable today? Tim ranks the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500 and Toyota Tundra using PUTT’s reliability reporting, NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, failure severity and recurring problems. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power are included for comparison, but they do not determine the final ranking. The results may surprise you, especially the trucks finishing first, second and last. Read the full report: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/2026/07/most-reliable-full-size-trucks-ranked-surprise-winner/ Support the show
Send us Fan Mail The 2027 Toyota Tundra has arrived, and viewers have two major questions: Did Toyota finally fix the twin-turbo V-6, and why isn’t the V-8 coming back? Tim Esterdahl examines Toyota’s engine recall solution, the sharp decline in reported failures among newer trucks and whether buyers should trust the Tundra again. He also covers the revised grille, persistent remote start, recovery hooks, the new Trailhunter package and lingering problems Toyota has not publicly addressed. Plus, this week’s Truck News Recap includes the most reliable full-size truck rankings, GMC Sierra 2500 HD known problems, the Cummins hydraulic-lifter controversy and new resources in the PUTT Reliability Center and Buyer’s Guide. Visit Pickup Truck + SUV Talk: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/ Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Why won’t the 2027 Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon get GM’s new 5.7-liter and 6.6-liter V8 engines right away? Tim explains GM’s rollout strategy, the engineering and investment involved, and what buyers can actually expect from the 2027 Tahoe. Also in this week’s truck news recap: Cummins hydraulic lifters versus flat tappets, a modified Silverado owner’s reliability problems, Ram’s new TRX warranty restriction, Tim’s 90-minute Flock camera traffic stop and the expensive hail damage to his Ford F-150. Find more truck news at PickupTruckTalk.com. Support the show
Send us Fan Mail The EPA has released its long-awaited proposal to revise the 2027 heavy-duty diesel emissions rules, but does it mean diesel owners can finally delete their trucks? In this episode, Tim Esterdahl breaks down what the proposal actually changes, including the plan to eliminate many DEF-related engine derates, reduce warranty requirements and delay some emissions durability standards. He also explains what didn't change, why DEF systems and emissions deletes remain a hot topic, and why many diesel enthusiasts may still be disappointed. If you've been following the diesel delete debate, this episode separates the headlines from the facts and explains what the EPA's proposal could mean for current and future diesel truck owners. Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Fifteen years after Ford tore down a production 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine in front of a live audience to prove its durability, truck owners are still arguing about what the test actually proved. Tim looks back at the famous Detroit Auto Show teardown, the results Ford revealed, and why debates over carbon buildup, 10,000-mile oil changes, and turbocharger reliability continue today. Plus, a quick roundup of the week's biggest truck news, including EPA DEF rule changes, Ram TRX updates, Tacoma sales, recalls, and more. Sponsored by: Get 15% off Screen ProTech screen protectors at screenprotech.com/tim . Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Quarter 2 truck sales results are out, and the numbers tell an interesting story. Ram continues its impressive comeback thanks to the return of the Hemi V8, Ford F-Series sales have slipped amid production challenges, Chevrolet Silverado sales are down, GMC Sierra continues to gain ground, and the Toyota Tacoma remains the undisputed king of midsize trucks. In this episode, I break down the biggest winners and losers, explain what's driving the latest sales trends, and discuss whether Ford's nearly 50-year reign as America's best-selling truck could eventually be challenged if current trends continue. We'll also look at: Ram's sales surge and what's behind it Ford's production and aluminum supply issues Why GMC is outperforming Chevrolet Toyota Tacoma's continued dominance Nissan Frontier's surprising growth The latest EV truck sales numbers and what they mean for the market If you enjoy the podcast, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk. New episodes cover the latest truck news, reviews, towing tests, and automotive industry insights. Read the full story: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/2026/07/2026-q2-truck-sales-ram-keeps-rolling-tacoma-widens-lead-while-ford-and-gm-continue-to-slide/ Support the show
Send us Fan Mail After 10 years of building Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk, it's time for the biggest expansion in our company's history. In this episode, I share the story behind the launch of We Talk Cars —why I decided to expand beyond trucks, what we've learned from listening to our audience, and how that feedback shaped an entirely new automotive media outlet. I also explain how Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk and We Talk Cars will work together, why we're doubling down on reliability reporting, buyer's guides, engineering interviews, comparisons, and practical reviews, and why I believe today's automotive media has lost sight of what real consumers actually need. This isn't just the launch of another website. It's the next step in building an independent automotive media company focused on serving enthusiasts and everyday buyers with honest, practical information. Thanks for being part of this journey. None of this would have been possible without your support over the last decade. Check out We Talk Cars: https://wetalkcars.com Check out Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk: https://pickuptrucktalk.com Support the show
Send us Fan Mail GM has finally revealed the all-new 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and in this episode I explain why I'm planning to buy one. But before I sign on the dotted line, there are several important questions I need answered. I dive into the new V8 engines, whether GM has finally addressed the lifter reliability concerns, Trail Mode versus 4-Lo, the return of the Duramax diesel, the redesigned interior, and why improved seat comfort matters far more than another giant touchscreen. I also recap the biggest truck news of the week, including the Ram Hemi's surprising return, the Slate electric pickup, and the latest reliability stories from Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk. Sponsored by Screen ProTech. Protect your vehicle's screens and save 15% with my link: https://screenprotech.com/tim Read more truck news at: https://pickuptrucktalk.com Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Only two 2026 pickup trucks earned IIHS safety awards this year, and the top winner is probably not the truck most traditional buyers expected. The Tesla Cybertruck earned the only Top Safety Pick+ award, while the Toyota Tundra was the only pickup to earn Top Safety Pick. In this week’s Pickup Truck Talk news recap, Cory breaks down the latest IIHS truck safety results, where Ford, Chevy and Ram landed, and why the newest testing standards made the list so short. Also in the news: eight new SRT trucks and SUVs may be coming, Jeep could bring back the Scrambler with HEMI power, a Toyota Tundra engine teardown supports the manufacturing debris explanation, we grade our 2027 Chevy Silverado predictions, Ford teases a cheaper EV pickup, and we have a quick Father’s Day gift reminder for truck dads. #PickupTruckTalk #TruckNews #Cybertruck #ToyotaTundra #IIHS Get your Screen ProTech screen protector: https://screenprotech.com/tim Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Support the show
Send us Fan Mail This week on Truck News Recap, Tim discusses the biggest traffic day in Pickup Truck Talk history and the surprising story behind it. A two-year-old interview with the chief engineer of the Ram Hurricane inline-six engine exploded online, reigniting the debate over whether Ram made the right decision replacing the legendary Hemi V8. Why are truck buyers still arguing about Hemi versus Hurricane? Was Ram right to move forward with turbocharged six-cylinder power? Or did customers force the company to bring the Hemi back? Tim also covers the latest truck news, reliability stories, recalls, upcoming reviews and provides an update on what's happening behind the scenes at Pickup Truck Talk. Topics in this episode: Ram Hurricane vs Hemi debate Why the Hurricane engine continues to gain support Ram bringing the Hemi back Ford 6.7L Power Stroke known issues Ford Super Duty reliability concerns Toyota Tundra and ToyotaCare updates GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate vs Ford F-150 Upcoming Ram BackCountry and Rebel Lunar Edition reviews Major announcement coming July 1 Read the latest truck news: https://pickuptrucktalk.com Get your screen protector: https://www.screenprotech.com/tim Follow Pickup Truck Talk: Website: https://pickuptrucktalk.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PickupTruckTalk #TruckNews #Ram1500 #Hemi #HurricaneEngine #PickupTruckTalk #TruckPodcast #RamTrucks #PickupTrucks #AutomotiveNews #TimEsterdahl Support the show
Send us Fan Mail The 2027 Ford Bronco Filson looks like a premium outdoor collaboration on the surface, but the bigger story may be what Ford did not say. Ford kept calling this new Bronco “premium,” not “luxury,” and that word choice could matter if the rumors about a future Lincoln off-roader based on the Bronco platform turn out to be true. In this week’s Pickup Truck Talk news recap, Cory breaks down the new Bronco Filson after spending time with Ford and Filson in the Pacific Northwest. He looks at the Raptor-inspired hardware, including the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, Sasquatch package, Fox shocks and 35-inch tires, plus the quieter cabin, power running boards and premium interior touches that may hint at where the Bronco platform is headed next. Also in the news: ToyotaCare changes, Toyota Tundra reliability questions, Cummins engine teardown concerns and more truck and SUV stories worth following. #PickupTruckTalk #FordBronco #BroncoFilson #TruckNews #SUVNews Get your Screen ProTech screen protector: https://screenprotech.com/tim Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Support the show
Send us Fan Mail This week on Truck News Recap, we're diving into the biggest known problems reported by Nissan Frontier owners from the 2023-2026 model years. From transmission complaints and electrical glitches to recalls and owner concerns, here's what buyers need to know before purchasing a Nissan Frontier. Plus, Toyota has released new information about the Tundra engine replacement program, including details on when the updated main bearing entered production. We'll break down what the latest update means for current owners and anyone considering a new Tundra. Topics include: • 2023-2026 Nissan Frontier known problems • Transmission complaints • Electrical and infotainment issues • Frontier recalls • Toyota Tundra engine replacement update • New main bearing production timeline • Weekly truck industry news Let me know in the comments: Would you buy a Nissan Frontier over a Toyota Tacoma? #NissanFrontier #ToyotaTundra #TruckNews #PickupTruckTalk #Nissan #Toyota #Frontier #Tundra #TruckProblems #TruckReliability Visit Screen Pro Tech and get 15% off: https://screenprotech.com/Tim Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Toyota has expanded its twin-turbo V6 engine recall again, and this time we finally have a better idea why these engines are failing. According to a newly filed NHTSA report, Toyota spent months tearing down engines, analyzing failed components, and conducting laboratory testing. The investigation led engineers to one component in particular: the #1 main bearing. The company says machining debris, often called "swarf" in the manufacturing industry, may not have been fully removed during production. That debris can contaminate the bearing, causing wear, engine knocking, rough running, and in some cases complete engine failure. In this video, I break down: ► Toyota's latest recall filing ► Why the #1 main bearing matters ► What Toyota's engineers discovered during testing ► The role of metal shavings (swarf) in engine failures ► How this recall differs from previous Tundra engine recalls ► What current Tundra owners should know The biggest surprise? Toyota's investigation found the same wear patterns seen in earlier recalled engines, suggesting the problem extended further into production than originally believed. Do you own a 2024 Toyota Tundra? Have you experienced engine issues? Let me know in the comments below. Support the show
Send us Fan Mail The 2027 Ram 1500 Rumble Bee brings HEMI power back in a big way, but the most interesting detail may be what Ram removed, and what it kept. The new Rumble Bee 5.7L HEMI drops eTorque and auto start/stop, yet still uses MDS cylinder deactivation to help with fuel economy during light-load driving. In this week’s Pickup Truck Talk news recap, Cory breaks down why Ram made that choice, what it means for enthusiasts, how the Rumble Bee differs from regular 2027 HEMI-powered Ram 1500 trucks, and why this new muscle truck lineup could be one of Ram’s smartest moves yet. Also in the news: a new Nissan Frontier trim, more recalls, and new aftermarket products worth checking out. #PickupTruckTalk #RamRumbleBee #Ram1500 #HEMI #TruckNews Get your Screen ProTech screen protector: https://screenprotech.com/tim Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Are new vehicles really getting mandatory government “kill switches” in 2027? That rumor has exploded online, especially among truck owners and automotive enthusiasts, but what does the law actually say? In this episode, we break down the facts behind the viral claims, where the confusion started, and how modern connected vehicle technology already works in many new trucks and SUVs. We also discuss driver monitoring systems, privacy concerns, remote vehicle controls and why many consumers are skeptical about where the auto industry is headed next. If you’ve seen headlines or social media posts claiming the government will be able to shut off your truck remotely, this episode explains what’s real, what’s exaggerated and what could still change in the future. Plus, we discuss how automakers are balancing safety technology, regulation and consumer trust as vehicles become more connected than ever before. Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Check out our Forum: https://forum.pickuptrucktalk.com/ Support the show
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Tim breaks down reports that Toyota could be considering a major shift in Tacoma production with a proposed $2 billion expansion at its Texas manufacturing plant. Could the Tacoma move back to the United States after Toyota shifted production to Mexico just a few years ago? Tim explains where the Tacoma is currently built, the history of Toyota truck manufacturing in Texas, and why tariffs, supply chain concerns and political pressure may be influencing the company’s future plans. The discussion also covers what a production move could mean for truck buyers, pricing, inventory and Toyota’s position against Ford, GM and Ram in the competitive midsize truck market. If you own a Tacoma, are shopping for a midsize truck or follow automotive manufacturing news, this episode breaks down why this story matters. Get your Screen ProTech screen protector: https://screenprotech.com/tim Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Gas prices are rising again, yet truck buyers still keep choosing V8 engines over smaller turbocharged powertrains. In this week’s Truck News Recap, I dive into why reliability may matter more to truck owners than fuel economy numbers. I discuss comments from Jim Farley about continued V8 demand, despite Ford spending years promoting EcoBoost turbocharged engines as the future of trucks. I also break down the latest developments with the Toyota Tundra engine recall and why many owners are once again asking for the return of proven V8 power. We also look at Ram truck sales growth and the impact of bringing the Hemi V8 back into the lineup after customer backlash to the Hurricane inline-six engines. Plus, I revisit Ford’s original EcoBoost torture-test program from 2011 and why the debate over turbocharged engine durability still hasn’t gone away 15 years later. Finally, I examine whether rising fuel prices actually reduce truck sales and why many truck owners still prioritize towing capability, long-term durability, and engine reliability over MPG ratings. Let me know in the comments: Would you choose better fuel economy or a proven V8 engine for your next truck? Get your Screen ProTech screen protector: https://screenprotech.com/tim Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Support the show
Send us Fan Mail Toyota’s reputation for quality continues taking hits as the automaker has for the second time in four years forced owners of more than 125,000 late model Toyota Tundras and Lexus GX and LX SUVs to wait for a solution to the Toyota Tundra engine recall debacle. Support the show
Send us Fan Mail General Motors has issued updated guidance outlining what it considers acceptable normal oil consumption for trucks, sparking renewed debate among owners who say the thresholds make zero sense. Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Check out our Forum: https://forum.pickuptrucktalk.com/ Support the show