Wrench Nation - Car Talk Show

August 17, 2026 Podcasts, Radio Show

#343 The Biggest Mistakes Drivers Make After a Crash

A car accident can last only seconds, but the decisions you make afterward can affect your finances, your health, and your insurance claim for months—or even years. In this episode of WrenchNation, host Frank Leutz welcomes Russell “Rusty” Reynolds, JD, founding partner of Reynolds & Reynolds Injury Law, for an important conversation every driver should hear before they’re ever involved in a collision. Together, they discuss the critical first 24 hours after an accident, including what information to document, when […]
Read More →
August 17, 2026 Podcasts, Radio Show

The Copper Ban Nobody’s Talking About: Brake Pads Exposed

On this episode of WrenchNation, we welcome Dino Crescentini, an automotive industry veteran widely recognized as the “Godfather of Brakes” and a leader at Dynamic Friction Company (DFC). Dino shares his extensive knowledge of modern brake technology, breaking down the differences between ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic brake pads in a way that’s easy for both automotive professionals and everyday drivers to understand. In this episode, we discuss how each brake pad material affects stopping performance, noise, brake dust, heat management, […]
Read More →
August 17, 2026 Inside The Garage, On Location

Is Your Belt About to Snap? Signs You Missed & How To Replace

Stop ignoring that engine noise before your car leaves you stranded. Master the serpentine belt replacement process today. We head to the junkyard to get a clear, unobstructed view of how these belts are routed. By examining various engine bays, you can see exactly how the components interact. This helps you identify signs of wear like fraying or cracking before they become major issues. You will see the specific belt tensioner tool required to safely release pressure. I walk through […]
Read More →
August 6, 2026 Interviews, Television Segments

Hear This? Fix it Now!

Your vehicle is constantly communicating with you and unusual noises are often the first warning that something needs attention. In my latest AZFamily | 3TV & CBS 5 News segment, I break down five common vehicle sounds you should never ignore, including cold-start rattles, clicking CV axles or cooling fan roar. Learn what these sounds could mean, why acting early can save you thousands in repair costs, and how recognizing the warning signs can help keep you safe on the […]
Read More →
August 3, 2026 Television Segments

Don’t Fall Into These Car Repair Traps

Learn how to avoid common car repair mistakes before they become expensive problems. In this AZFamily | 3TV & CBS 5 News segment, Frank Leutz shares practical tips to help drivers make smarter repair decisions, protect their vehicles, and save money on maintenance.
Read More →
August 3, 2026 Podcasts, Radio Show

#342 Behind the Headlines: Why Some Dealers Are Thriving While Others Are Struggling

Learn the current dealership trends affecting your next purchase. We analyze the market to help you navigate your next car buying advice session. We are joined by Ray Shefska, a consumer advocate and co-founder of CarEdge, to discuss the state of the automotive industry. With 43 years of experience inside franchise dealerships, Ray provides an insider perspective on why some stores are struggling while others are thriving. This session is designed for anyone planning on buying a car soon who […]
Read More →

LATEST PODCASTS

Podcasts / Radio Show

#343 The Biggest Mistakes Drivers Make After a Crash

August 17, 2026

A car accident can last only seconds, but the decisions you make afterward can affect your finances, your health, and your insurance claim for months—or even years. In this episode of WrenchNation, host Frank Leutz welcomes Russell “Rusty” Reynolds, JD, founding partner of Reynolds & Reynolds Injury Law, for an important conversation every driver should hear before they’re ever involved in a collision. Together, they discuss the critical first 24 hours after an accident, including what information to document, when […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

The Copper Ban Nobody’s Talking About: Brake Pads Exposed

August 17, 2026

On this episode of WrenchNation, we welcome Dino Crescentini, an automotive industry veteran widely recognized as the “Godfather of Brakes” and a leader at Dynamic Friction Company (DFC). Dino shares his extensive knowledge of modern brake technology, breaking down the differences between ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic brake pads in a way that’s easy for both automotive professionals and everyday drivers to understand. In this episode, we discuss how each brake pad material affects stopping performance, noise, brake dust, heat management, […]
Read more →
Interviews / Television Segments

Hear This? Fix it Now!

August 6, 2026

Your vehicle is constantly communicating with you and unusual noises are often the first warning that something needs attention. In my latest AZFamily | 3TV & CBS 5 News segment, I break down five common vehicle sounds you should never ignore, including cold-start rattles, clicking CV axles or cooling fan roar. Learn what these sounds could mean, why acting early can save you thousands in repair costs, and how recognizing the warning signs can help keep you safe on the […]
Read more →
Television Segments

Don’t Fall Into These Car Repair Traps

August 3, 2026

Learn how to avoid common car repair mistakes before they become expensive problems. In this AZFamily | 3TV & CBS 5 News segment, Frank Leutz shares practical tips to help drivers make smarter repair decisions, protect their vehicles, and save money on maintenance.
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#342 Behind the Headlines: Why Some Dealers Are Thriving While Others Are Struggling

August 3, 2026

Learn the current dealership trends affecting your next purchase. We analyze the market to help you navigate your next car buying advice session. We are joined by Ray Shefska, a consumer advocate and co-founder of CarEdge, to discuss the state of the automotive industry. With 43 years of experience inside franchise dealerships, Ray provides an insider perspective on why some stores are struggling while others are thriving. This session is designed for anyone planning on buying a car soon who […]
Read more →
Television Segments

Don’t Get Scammed on Your Next Used Car Purchase

August 3, 2026

You’re feeling giddy as a long-awaited tax refund is finally on the way. You decide to do something meaningful with it: buy your son or daughter their first used car. What you don’t expect is to be blindsided by a little-known trick some used-car scammers are getting away with..one that can turn a feel-good purchase into a costly mistake long after the keys are handed over. Before you buy, there’s something every parent should know. PRE Purchase inspect that vehicle […]
Read more →
Radio Show / Television Segments

Don’t Get Caught Unprepared This Monsoon Season

August 3, 2026

Arizona’s monsoon season can do more than bring dust storms and heavy rain..it can leave you stranded, damage expensive vehicle electronics, and create safety hazards if your car isn’t ready. In this episode, I share the most important steps every driver should take before the next storm rolls in !
Read more →
Television Segments

Your Car’s Killing Your Gas Budget (Here’s Why)

August 1, 2026

Gas prices are climbing again, and while you can’t control what happens at the pump, you can control how efficiently your vehicle uses every gallon. I’m Frank Leutz, and here are simple ways to stretch your fuel budget.
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#344 The Great Car Market Reset: Are Dealers Finally Negotiating Again?

June 7, 2026

With Special Monthly Guest Ray Shefska of CarEdge After several years of inflated prices, limited inventory, and “take it or leave it” dealership attitudes, the automotive market may finally be returning to reality. Is the era of paying thousands over sticker becoming a thing of the past? On this month’s edition of WrenchNation Radio, host Frank Leutz welcomes back special monthly guest Ray Shefska of CarEdge to examine what many are calling The Great Car Market Reset. For consumers […]
Read more →
Television Segments

Keep Your Car AC Running Perfect This Summer

May 6, 2026

On this A/C tips segment on AZFamily, I break down the most common automotive A/C leaks that leave drivers sweating from the heat. From worn seals and cracked hoses to an evaporator that can leak from road debris , I walk you through what typically goes wrong, how to spot early warning signs, and why proper testing matters before just “topping it off.” Real-world advice to keep your system blowing cold and your wallet protected !
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#343 FTC Crackdowns : New Car Dealer Rules You Need to Know

April 27, 2026

FTC Dealer Transparency Rules: What Car Buyers Need to Know WrenchNation Welcomes Ray Shefska of CarEdge The car-buying landscape is changing—and consumers need to pay attention. On our latest episode of WrenchNation, we sat down with Ray Shefska of CarEdge to break down the latest FTC dealership transparency mandates and what they could mean for everyday car buyers across America. For years, many consumers have faced confusing pricing, surprise add-ons, hidden fees, and high-pressure tactics inside dealership finance offices. […]
Read more →
Television Segments

Cabin Air: The Hidden Health Hazard

April 13, 2026

In my recent AZ Family 3TV segment, I dug into the hidden areas inside your vehicle that can become breeding grounds for bacteria, mold, and those stubborn odors coming through your vents. From neglected cabin air filters to moisture buildup deep inside the HVAC system, your car’s interior air quality can take a hit without you even realizing it. The good news? A few simple checks and maintenance steps can make a huge difference, helping you breathe cleaner air and […]
Read more →
Television Segments

Fuel Savings in a $4+ World: What Drivers Need to Know NOW

April 8, 2026

You don’t need a warning light to be wasting money at the pump. I recently joined Arizona’s Family to talk about something we all care about right now !.. getting the most out of every gallon of that expensive fuel, especially when your check engine light is OFF (yes, that matters more than you think). Plugging in a diagnostic scanner to take the guesswork out of what your vehicle actually needs is critical. Even without a warning light, your car […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#342 Bid Smart: Insider Tips for Buying and Selling Cars at Auction

March 16, 2026

Mecum Auctions Coming to Glendale: Inside the Collector Car Market with David Purvis We recently welcomed special guest David Purvis to the show to talk about the excitement surrounding the upcoming Mecum Glendale 2026 event coming to Glendale. David’s passion for collector cars began early, attending classic car auctions with his father—who was a regular participant at Mecum Auctions dating back to its second-ever sale. That lifelong connection to the hobby eventually led David to join Mecum in 2010, […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#341 Brake Smarter, Not Harder: Insider Tips from the Godfather of Brakes Dino Crescentini

March 15, 2026

On this episode of WrenchNation, we welcome Dino Crescentini — widely known in the industry as the Godfather of Brakes and a leader at Dynamic Friction Company (DFC). Dino explains the fundamentals of brake pad materials in a way that both technicians and enthusiasts can easily understand. In this episode, we break down the real differences between ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic brake pads—and what those differences mean for safety, performance, noise, heat management, and durability. We also discuss how these choices impact the level of […]
Read more →
Interviews / On Location

Best Car Show Ever? Concours in the Hills Founder Peter Volny Interview

February 15, 2026

Our recent WrenchNatiion show featured special guest Peter Volny , Founder of Concours in the Hills, who shared the incredible backstory behind this world-class automotive event and the charitable mission that drives it. Peter took us behind the scenes of how the show came to life, highlighting its community impact and the passion that fuels it, all while showcasing an amazing array of truly exceptional cars. A must-preview conversation for anyone who loves great cars with a greater purpose.
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#340 Amazon Autos: Disruption or Distraction?

February 13, 2026

Shop Smarter: Your Guide to Buying Used Cars Online In this episode, we dive into smart consumer tips for buying used cars online — and what the launch of Amazon Autos means for everyday buyers. Joining us is special guest Justin Fischer of CarEdge, who brings expert insight into pricing transparency, dealer tactics, online buying risks, and how consumers can protect themselves in today’s digital car marketplace. From vehicle history reports and hidden fees to return policies and financing […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#339 Why Your Car Feels “Off” But No Warning Lights Are On

January 26, 2026

If your car feels different—but the dashboard is quiet—you’re not crazy. Modern vehicles don’t always warn you when something’s wrong, and in this episode of WrenchNation, we break down why that happens and what drivers should know. We’ll explain how today’s cars are designed to tolerate small changes without triggering warning lights—and why drivers often feel issues long before a computer decides it’s a “problem.” We’ll talk about common signs your vehicle may be developing an issue even with no […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

AI Can Drive -Humans Still Can’t Close a Door?

January 15, 2026

Self-driving cars are impressive… until something simple stops them cold. In this video, we break down a growing real-world issue with autonomous ride services: passengers exiting the vehicle and leaving doors open, causing the car to become immobilized—unable to proceed without human intervention. We’ll talk about why this happens, how automation is changing passenger behavior, and the unintended consequences when responsibility gets blurred. You’ll see how even the most advanced vehicle systems can be brought to a halt by a […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#338 The Noise vs The Truth: 2025 Automotive Industry Breakdown

December 21, 2025

2025 was a year of loud headlines and big claims across the automotive world — EV dominance, AI replacing technicians, digital car buying, and the end of traditional repair. But beneath the noise, a very different story was taking shape. In this episode of WrenchNation, we cut through the hype and break down what actually happened in 2025 — and what it quietly set up for 2026 and beyond. EV sales didn’t collapse, but they clearly hit a wall […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#337 Rolling Through Time: Inside the Martin Auto Museum with Rick DeBruhl

December 15, 2025

This week on Wrench Nation, we welcome motorsports broadcaster and automotive storyteller Rick DeBruhl, representing the incredible Martin Auto Museum. From rare classics to iconic race machines, the Martin Auto Museum isn’t just about chrome and horsepower—it’s about preserving history, inspiring the next generation, and celebrating the stories behind the sheet metal. Rick takes us behind the scenes with museum favorites, upcoming events, and why this destination is a true gem for car culture !
Read more →
Interviews / Television Segments

Why Is My Vehicle Hesitating When I Accelerate ?

December 15, 2025

Join WrenchNation Host Frank Butkus Leutz for his latest segment on azfamily 3TV CBS 5 with Paul Horton where he walks through some of the most common causes as to why your vehicle is hesitating when accelerating. . Need more help ? Reach out to Frank over at https://www.wrenchnation.tv/contact/ for a National list of local community minded auto service facilities that can help.
Read more →
Current Events News

Buying a Car on Amazon: Brilliant Move or Big Mistake ?

December 1, 2025

Amazon Enters the Car Market — Game Changer or Disaster? Amazon is now selling cars — and right now the only new-car option available through Amazon Autos is Hyundai, while their used-car inventory comes from Hertz (and rental-fleet conversions). That means if you want to buy new, your choice is basically Hyundai. For used, you’ll be browsing Hertz rental/fleet cars — sedans, SUVs, and more, often offered at no-haggle prices, sometimes below typical market value. Could the lineup expand? Very […]
Read more →
Current Events News

Slow Day? The Work Gods Disagree

November 25, 2025

In our latest video, we poke at the idea that maybe—just maybe—the last place we need more notifications, pings, and virtual meeting requests… is behind the wheel. With burnout rising across every industry, the road should be one of the few places left where we decompress, breathe, and reconnect with real life. A fun segment, a real conversation, and a reminder that sometimes the best “upgrade” isn’t more productivity… it’s more peace.
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#336 DIY Car Repairs Gone Wrong: Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them Before They Break You

November 25, 2025

Ever try to save a few bucks by wrenching on your own ride, only to end up with a driveway disaster? From stripped bolts to mystery leaks, we’re diving into the most common DIY car repairs that can go sideways — and the small but vital steps that often get overlooked.
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#335 Trucking’s Underbelly Exposed: Illegal Labor, Fake Repairs, and Failing Oversight

October 20, 2025

This week on WrenchNation, we’re joined by Trucker Tim — a seasoned long-hauler who’s witnessed it all: the grit, the grind, and the growing dangers inside today’s trucking world. America’s economy rolls on eighteen wheels, but what happens when those wheels start coming off? From illegal labor to shady maintenance shortcuts and companies cutting corners just to survive — the cracks are widening.This isn’t just a trucking crisis. It’s a road-safety wake-up call for every driver out there.
Read more →
Television Segments

Avoid Costly Premature Tire Wear

October 20, 2025

Join WrenchNation Host Frank Butkus Leutz for his latest segment on azfamily 3TV CBS 5 where he walks through some of the most common areas of premature tire wear and how to completely avoid.
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#334 Behind the Curtain of the World’s Biggest Car Show: Tom Gattuso on the Magic of SEMA

September 29, 2025

Few people have done more to put the automotive world on the global stage than Tom Gattuso. As Vice President of Events for SEMA, Tom is the driving force behind the legendary SEMA Show in Las Vegas — one of the most influential automotive trade events on the planet. Blending marketing expertise, sharp strategic planning, and a lifelong passion for all things automotive, Tom has elevated the SEMA Show into a must-attend gathering for industry pros, builders, and enthusiasts […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#333 Clear Vision: Windshield Wisdom Every Driver Should Know

September 21, 2025
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#332 Tire Smoke & Triumphs: Jim Liaw’s Inside Story of Formula Drift & PRI

September 17, 2025

Jim Liaw serves as the General Manager of Performance Racing Industry (PRI), where he leads efforts to support and advocate for racers, builders, sanctioning bodies, tracks, and the businesses that fuel motorsports. A natural entrepreneur with a deep passion for the industry, Liaw has built a career creating and elevating programs that connect with both enthusiasts and the next generation of fans. Before joining PRI in 2021, Liaw co-founded Formula Drift in 2003 and served as its President. What […]
Read more →
Television Segments

Simple Car Repair Mistakes You Need to Avoid

September 9, 2025

On his latest AZFamily | 3TV & CBS 5 News segment, WrenchNation host Frank Leutz shares simple and practical tips to help drivers avoid the most common mistakes made during simple vehicle repairs. From steering clear of costly missteps to tackling small fixes with confidence, Frank breaks it down with easy-to-follow advice designed to save you time, money, and frustration.
Read more →
Interviews / On Location

Headliners & Horsepower -SEMA FEST 2025

August 18, 2025

Headliners + Horsepower ! OPTIMA® Batteries On the latest Wrench Nation, we sat down with Tom Gattuso, VP of Events for Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), to dive into the incredible lineup and what makes this years SEMA FEST a must-see. Headliners include Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes, and Neon Trees—blending world-class music with the ultimate car culture experience. Beyond the stage, SEMA Fest brings rare custom builds, concept rides, networking industry training sessioins, and the unique […]
Read more →
Podcasts / Radio Show

#331 Used Car Confessions: Scandals, Psychology, and Smart Buyer Tips

July 23, 2025

A couple of last-minute guests roll into the studio, as we swap stories about used car adventures—the good, the bad, and the ‘what were we thinking?’ moments. We’ll give you smart tips to avoid falling for the classic mechanical cover-ups that sellers try to slip past you, and dish up some practical advice empowering you before your next used car buy ! Need a prepurchase inspection ? Reach out to Frank for a community minded auto service facilty in your […]
Read more →