The Truth About My Children
**Full Article Based on Video Transcription**
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### **Career Advice and Hobbies: Combining Interests**
Redneck Driver shares his journey of balancing his career in IT with his growing interest in physical labor and car repairs. With seven vehicles and five teenage kids, he jokes about how overwhelming it can be to manage everything. He expresses a desire to transition into a more hands-on role, possibly through vocational training at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology using his VA benefits. While he makes good money in IT, he sees this as a potential side hustle.
Redneck Driver advises viewers to focus on electronics and maintenance rather than engine rebuilding or transmission work, which can be expensive and require significant equipment. He emphasizes that understanding electronics is key to future car repairs, especially with the increasing reliance of modern vehicles on computer systems. He encourages combining video creation, answering questions, and hands-on fixing as a way to stay well-rounded and avoid boredom.
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### **Mazda vs Hyundai: Which Brand is Better?**
A viewer asks whether Mazda or Hyundai is a good car brand and which one Redneck Driver prefers. Redneck Driver responds by praising Mazda, particularly the Mazda Miata, for its reliability and performance. He notes that while Kia and Hyundai have merged into one company, their vehicles are still affordable and trouble-free if bought new. However, he advises those looking to keep a car for longer to opt for Toyota or Honda, as they tend to last longer without major issues.
He also mentions that the price difference between equivalent models from these brands has narrowed over the years. While Hyundai and Kia were once significantly cheaper, the difference is now minimal—around $900. He personally prefers Toyotas due to their long-term reliability.
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### **Crown Victoria Transmission Fluid Advice**
A viewer with a Crown Vic at 97,000 miles asks about changing transmission fluid that hasn’t been changed for a long time. Redneck Driver advises that if the fluid has been changed at least once before, it’s safe to change it now. He recommends changing it every 40-50,000 miles as a precaution. He emphasizes that fluids are cheap, but transmissions can be expensive to repair.
He warns against draining old fluid and replacing it with new if the vehicle is older or if the fluid appears overly dirty. In such cases, he suggests putting the old fluid back in to avoid potential slipping issues. However, if the fluid is relatively clean, new fluid can be added without problems. He advises using a gauge to check pressure and recommends consulting a mechanic if the issue persists.
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### **2019 Rav4: Hybrid or Non-Hybrid?**
A viewer considering a 2019 Rav4 asks whether they should choose the hybrid or non-hybrid version. Redneck Driver explains that hybrids are good vehicles but can be expensive to maintain and repair as they age, particularly due to battery and generator costs. He advises against getting a used hybrid due to potential hidden issues.
If the viewer plans to keep the car for 10-12 years, he suggests going with the hybrid. However, if they aim for higher mileage (300,000+), he recommends the non-hybrid version. He warns about the high costs of maintenance and repair for hybrids and advises avoiding dealerships for service due to their tendency to overcharge.
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### **Nissan Maxima Oil Light Issue**
A 2018 Nissan Maxima owner reports an oil light flashing issue when starting the car, even though the oil level is full. Redneck Driver attributes this to bad oil pressure sending units or springs going bad. He advises replacing these parts as they are cheap and easy to fix.
He suggests monitoring the issue—if the light continues flashing, it could indicate low oil pressure due to a failing oil pump or worn engine bearings. Given that the car is 95 years old, he recommends considering whether it’s worth repairing or replacing it. He advises driving it cautiously as long as the oil light doesn’t come on during operation.
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### **Hellcat Engine Reliability and Weekend Use**
A viewer asks about the reliability of Hellcat engines in vehicles like the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, which has 707 horsepower. Redneck Driver acknowledges that these engines are powerful and can last a long time if not pushed too hard. However, he cautions that extreme use will lead to breakdowns and poor gas mileage.
He advises those who want these vehicles for weekend fun to proceed but be aware of the potential costs of repairs and maintenance over time. He notes that resale values drop significantly as the cars age due to their reputation for falling apart. He suggests purchasing a used model if interested, but emphasizes the importance of budgeting for ongoing expenses.
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### **Conclusion: Keep Watching for More Car Repair Tips**
Redneck Driver concludes by encouraging viewers to subscribe and watch his new car repair videos for more valuable insights. He promises to continue sharing practical advice and tips on maintaining and repairing vehicles.
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