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Pickup Truck +SUV Talk

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.

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21 episodes
a few times a week
Avg 16 min
English

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Episodes 21

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Friday · 20 min
GM’s New V8s: Tough Questions, Towing Surprises and Silverado Prices
Send us Fan Mail GM’s new V8 engines bring more power—and plenty of questions. Fresh from GM’s powertrain event in Flint, Tim Esterdahl breaks down what engineers told him, what remains unanswered, and what it means for truck owners. In this week’s Truck News Recap: • Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM), lifter concerns and the revised oiling system • Why GM is dropping the physical oil dipstick • Direct injection, port injection and intake-valve carbon buildup • Why the 6.6L V8’s towing rating surprised Tim • 2027 Chevrolet Silverado pricing and the High Country price increase • GM’s use of manufacturing data and AI to improve engine quality • Ram news, a 323,000-mile Hemi owner story, and a Ram truck dealership in Germany Sponsored by Screen ProTech: https://screenprotech.com/tim This is our sponsor/affiliate link. Watch this recap on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2c2jWjOONZ4 Watch the GM powertrain video: https://youtu.be/wdTGZ_QoLlI Watch the RTR Ram Truck Ranch interview: https://youtu.be/iRBxqhF3PI0 Truck news, owner stories and buying advice: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/ More car and SUV coverage: https://wetalkcars.com/ Support the show
September 4 · 22 min
I Ordered a 2027 Chevy Silverado High Country: Here’s Why
Send us Fan Mail I ordered my next truck: a 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country. In this episode, I explain why I chose Chevy over GMC and Toyota, why timing pushed me into the High Country trim, and the exact engine, color and towing configuration I ordered. CHAPTERS 0:00 I ordered a new truck 0:45 The trucks I considered 2:10 Why Chevrolet instead of GMC 3:20 The new Silverado V8 decision 4:10 Ordering through Kelley Chevrolet 5:20 Why I chose High Country 7:05 Pacific Blue and the 6.6L V8 8:25 Max Trailering availability 9:10 The 3.23 rear axle explained 11:05 Delivery timing and estimated price 13:25 Screen ProTech giveaway and PUTT updates 15:25 This week in truck news 20:30 Germany programming note Save 15% on a Screen ProTech screen protector: https://screenprotech.com/tim Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/pickuptrucktalk Visit the Pickup Truck + SUV Talk website: https://www.pickuptrucktalk.com Support the show
August 21 · 11 min
GM 6.2L V8 Investigation Escalates, Tundra Hammer Test and Super Duty Engine Changes
Send us Fan Mail NHTSA has escalated its investigation into GM’s 6.2-liter L87 V8, moving the case into an engineering analysis that could affect nearly one million Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac trucks and SUVs. Tim Esterdahl explains what the expanded federal investigation means for GM owners and whether the current recall remedy is resolving the engine problems. This week’s truck news also covers Toyota technicians using a hammer test on recalled Tundra engines, Ford Super Duty engine changes, GM’s updated 8-speed transmission repair procedure, proposed California tire-efficiency rules, new recalls and other important pickup truck and SUV stories. Sponsored by Screen ProTech. Save 10% at https://screenprotech.com/tim More truck and SUV news: https://pickuptrucktalk.com #GMRecall #TruckNews #PickupTrucks Support the show
August 15 · 11 min
Toyota Techs Are Smacking Tundra Engines With a Hammer to See if They Need Replacing
Send us Fan Mail Toyota has a new way to inspect certain 2022-2024 Tundra engines, and yes, it involves a plastic hammer. Tim breaks down Toyota’s V35A crank bearing inspection, why the automaker is testing these engines, how an accelerometer and software are used to analyze the results, and why this unusual-sounding procedure is actually based on established engineering principles. Support the show
August 7 · 13 min
Ford Fathom Revealed: Who Is This $30K Electric Truck Really For?
Send us Fan Mail Ford has revealed the Fathom, a new electric pickup expected to start around $30,000. But who is this truck actually for, and can Ford find enough buyers to make it successful? In this Truck News Recap, Tim Esterdahl examines what we know about the Ford Fathom, its expected size and range, and how it could compete with the Slate truck and Ford Maverick. He also explains why commercial fleets and urban drivers may be the real target customers. Other topics include Pickup Truck + SUV Talk’s first full-size truck award, changes coming to the 2027 Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, Toyota Highlander reliability problems and what Tim learned while towing a camper with the GMC Sierra EV. Support the show
August 4 · 15 min
Most Reliable Heavy-Duty Trucks Ranked: Ford, GM or Ram?
Send us Fan Mail Which heavy-duty truck is the most reliable: Ford Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD or Ram HD? Tim Esterdahl ranks today’s heavy-duty trucks using Pickup Truck + SUV Talk’s original reporting, NHTSA data, recalls, technical service bulletins and owner complaints. The Ford Super Duty claims the top spot despite its recall history and death-wobble complaints. The GM heavy-duty trucks follow closely, while valve-body concerns prevent them from finishing first. The redesigned Ram HD comes in last, largely because its Cummins and TorqueFlite HD powertrain is still too new to have an established long-term record. Do you agree with the rankings, and which heavy-duty truck has proved most reliable for you? Explore the PUTT Reliability Center: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/truck-reliability/ Support the show
July 31 · 17 min
Highlander Issues, Tow Hooks, and Rumble Bee Pricing
Send 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
July 28 · 22 min
What Is the Most Reliable Full-Size Truck? We Ranked Them All
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
July 24 · 13 min
2027 Toyota Tundra Updated: What's New and Did They Fix the V6
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
July 18 · 20 min
Why the 2027 Chevy Tahoe Won’t Get GM’s New V8 Engines Yet
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
July 14 · 13 min
EPA Rolls Back DEF Rules: What Actually Changed for Diesel Truck Owners
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
July 10 · 17 min
15 Years Later: Why Truck Owners Still Debate Ford's Famous EcoBoost Durability Test
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
July 7 · 10 min
Could Ford Lose Its 49-Year Truck Sales Crown? Q2 Truck Sales Breakdown
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
July 1 · 8 min
The Biggest Expansion in Pickup Truck Plus SUV Talk History
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
June 26 · 27 min
I'm Buying a 2027 Chevy Silverado, But GM Still Has to Answer These Questions
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
June 19 · 20 min
The Safest 2026 Pickup Truck Is Not What You Think
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
June 12 · 13 min
Why Truck Buyers Are Still Arguing About Hemi vs Hurricane 2 Years Later | Truck News Recap
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
June 5 · 12 min
What Ford Didn't Tell You About Bronco Filson
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
June 4 · 16 min
The Truth About Nissan Frontier Reliability (Plus New Toyota Tundra News)
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
June 2 · 14 min
The Real Reason Toyota Tundra Engines Are Failing
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

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