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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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26 episodes
Avg 18 min
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Tuesday · 26 min
EPA 2027 and the Future of Commercial Diesel: A Conversation with Daimler
Send us Fan Mail What will EPA 2027 mean for the engines that keep freight moving? Aaron Turpen talks with Dan Potter, head of emissions compliance at Daimler Truck North America, about Detroit Gen 6, emissions warranties, DEF derates and the uncertainty around EPA’s proposed changes. This discussion concerns heavy-duty commercial engines. It should not be read as a blanket description of pickup-truck warranties or emissions requirements. Dan explains Daimler’s position; manufacturer claims and views remain attributed to Daimler. IMPORTANT CONTEXT: Proposed amendments are not final law. The interview retains Dan’s explanation of that distinction. The EPA highway-vehicle greenhouse-gas repeal discussed here occurred in February 2026; the speaker says a different year in the recording; February 2026 is the corrected date shown in the original video. Separate fuel-economy requirements are also discussed. CHAPTERS 0:00 2027 diesel emissions with Dan Potter 0:38 Detroit Gen 6: evolution, not a clean-sheet engine 4:39 Planning through regulatory uncertainty 7:20 Proposed emissions-warranty changes 9:11 Useful life and truck durability 9:59 DEF derates: current updates and future proposals 12:30 What is proposed versus legally in effect? 13:14 NOx reduction and regulatory development 14:39 EPA greenhouse-gas rules and fuel economy 17:23 Nonconformance penalties: Daimler’s position 21:35 Planning beyond 2027 23:01 Closing thoughts More truck news and interviews: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/ Watch the original interview: https://youtu.be/t8fZBF_VGk8 Follow Pickup Truck + SUV Talk in your podcast app for more conversations with engineers and truck-industry experts. Source material: Daimler Truck North America regulatory presentation and images supplied with Aaron’s reporting. EPA proposal: https://www.epa.gov/regulations-emissions-vehicles-and-engines/proposed-rule-amendments-and-nonconformance-penalties EPA February 2026 final action: https://www.epa.gov/regulations-emissions-vehicles-and-engines/final-rule-rescission-greenhouse-gas-endangerment #Diesel #DetroitDiesel #myoriginalcontent Support the show
Monday · 19 min
8.0L Power Stroke by 2029? Four Clues Behind My Ford Diesel Prediction
Send us Fan Mail Could Ford introduce an 8.0L Power Stroke by 2029? Tim Esterdahl walks through four clues behind his prediction: Power Stroke history, GM’s new Duramax, information from Shell’s technology center, and changing diesel emissions requirements. The 8.0L displacement, 550 horsepower and 1,400 lb-ft of torque discussed here are PUTT predictions—not specifications confirmed by Ford. This episode also includes our Friday truck-news recap. 00:00 My 2029 Power Stroke prediction 01:37 Power Stroke history 03:26 ScreenProTech sponsor and giveaway 04:27 GM Duramax and the displacement question 06:29 Clues from Shell’s technology center 12:08 How dual DEF dosing works 14:35 EPA 2027 and my prediction 17:18 This week’s truck news Sponsored by ScreenProTech: https://screenprotech.com/tim Truck news and our monthly giveaway: https://pickuptrucktalk.com Watch the video: https://youtu.be/zsCllXXhKKw Support the show
October 10 · 19 min
Red-Dyed Diesel: Fuel Savings, Warranty Risks and What Truck Owners Need to Know
Send us Fan Mail Is red-dyed diesel a worthwhile option for your pickup? In this Truck News Recap, Tim Esterdahl explains why fuel compatibility, taxes, state permission and warranty coverage are separate questions. Hear the practical concerns behind the headlines, including fuel specifications, contamination, deferred taxes and the different owner-manual warnings for Ford, GM and Ram. We also catch up on Ram REV, truck sales, recent reviews and upcoming reporting trips. Recorded October 9, 2026. A tax deferral is not automatic forgiveness. Eligibility depends on applicable guidance and state rules. Warranty exclusions discussed concern damage from improper, contaminated or noncompliant fuel, not automatic cancellation of all truck coverage. Sponsored by Screen ProTech: https://ScreenProTech.com/tim This episode contains a paid sponsor message; this is our sponsor/affiliate link. Read the reporting: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/2026/10/red-dyed-diesel-truck-savings-trump-order/ https://pickuptrucktalk.com/2026/10/red-dyed-diesel-warranty-truck-manuals/ WDRB Louisville, Kentucky, mentioned for Tim's planned TV appearance: https://www.wdrb.com/ This station homepage is not a link to an already-published interview. More truck coverage: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/ Join the discussion: https://forum.pickuptrucktalk.com/ Cars and SUVs: https://wetalkcars.com/ Support the show
October 3 · 16 min
Ram Cuts Its 2027 Warranty: What Truck Buyers Need to Know
Send us Fan Mail Ram is walking back one of its biggest selling points. In this Truck News Recap, Tim Esterdahl breaks down the end of Ram’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for 2027, what that means for shoppers considering a 2026 truck, and the differences in diesel coverage across Ram, Ford, Chevrolet and GMC. Then we dig into the 2027 Ford F-150’s engine changes, GM’s latest diesel and gas-engine news, and what Tim learned about engine development and testing. There’s also a practical discussion of trailer-brake setup and the reliability and transmission questions truck owners still want answered. Recorded October 2, 2026. IN THIS EPISODE 00:00 Ram’s 10-year warranty is ending 00:26 This week’s truck news recap 00:57 New vehicle research tools 02:07 What changes for 2027 Ram buyers 03:41 Comparing diesel warranties 04:47 Why the longer warranty is going away 05:25 ScreenProTech giveaway and screen protection 06:33 2027 Ford F-150 engine changes 08:45 GM coverage and trailer-brake setup 10:00 Duramax and HD gas V8 news 11:00 How GM develops and tests engines 13:19 Reliability and transmission questions 15:13 Becoming better-informed truck buyers READ MORE Ram warranty story: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/2026/10/2027-ram-trucks-lose-one-of-their-biggest-selling-points-the-10-year-100k-mile-warranty/ Truck news and vehicle research: https://pickuptrucktalk.com Cars and unibody SUVs: https://wetalkcars.com SPONSOR Save 15% on ScreenProTech screen protection: https://screenprotech.com/tim Follow Pickup Truck + SUV Talk in your podcast app for more truck news, reviews and conversations with the people behind the vehicles. Support the show
October 1 · 1 hr 7 min
2027 Silverado & Sierra: I Asked GM—Now Ask Me Anything
Send us Fan Mail Tim Esterdahl answers questions about the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra in this replay of Tuesday’s livestream, “2027 Silverado & Sierra: I Asked GM—Now Ask Me Anything.” Truck news, owner stories and buying advice: https://pickuptrucktalk.com/ More car and SUV coverage: https://wetalkcars.com/ Support the show
September 18 · 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

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