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Home > Talking Cars (MP3) > Are Portable Jump Starters Worth It, The Most Fuel-Efficient Speed to Drive, Timing Chains vs. Timing Belts
Podcast: Talking Cars (MP3)
Episode:

Are Portable Jump Starters Worth It, The Most Fuel-Efficient Speed to Drive, Timing Chains vs. Timing Belts
Category: Games & Hobbies
Duration: 00:28:39
Publish Date: 2026-03-11 10:40:00
Description:

This week, we go through the mailbag and answer audience questions, including: Is driving 55 mph really more fuel-efficient—even in a 10-speed like the Acura TLX? We break down the science behind highway MPG, explain how regenerative braking affects brake light activation in EVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia Niro EV, compare jump-starting with cables vs. lithium battery boosters, dig into timing chain vs. timing belt replacement costs in models like the Honda CR-V, and help you decide whether to buy or lease a Honda Ridgeline. Plus, we highlight the best used cars for easier entry and exit, including the Toyota Crown and Subaru Crosstrek.

Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

01:39 - Question #1: Does the old '55 mph is best' rule still work with 10-speed transmissions?

05:51 - Question #2: Can jump-starting hurt electronics—or is a lithium booster safer?

10:08 - Question #3: Timing chain vs. timing belt: why aren't chains standard?

13:36 - Question #4: Does regen braking trigger the brake lights?

17:54 - Question #5: Keep my Honda Ridgeline or wait for a hybrid version?

21:05 - Question #6: What's the best used car that's easy for seniors to get in and out of?

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Most Fuel-Efficient Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Jump Starter Test Results

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/jump-starters/c37102/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

How to Find a Great Mechanic

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-repair-shops/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Brake Lights Can Fail to Provide Fair Warning on Some Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/brake-lights-can-fail-to-provide-fair-warning-on-some-evs-a9533519285/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

How to Make Your Car More Accessible for Aging, Injury, Disability, or Pregnancy

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/how-to-make-your-car-more-accessible-a9092978287/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
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