Car news briefs — Apr 17, 2026 · 5:51 PM EDT
Quick hits from racing, recalls, and car enthusiast gear to help track your build and vehicle maintenance needs.
ENTHUSIAST

Free Solo Climber Alex Honnold May Have Scaled Las Vegas Sphere
The stunt appears linked to a promotional shoot for the upcoming film "From the Edge," set to premiere at the Sphere later this year.
RACING
Acura Reportedly Considering Exit from IMSA GTP Program
Multiple reports suggest Honda's luxury brand is either weighing departure or has decided to pursue a different direction after the 2026 season.
RACING

Economic Pressures May End Acura's IMSA Racing Efforts
Economic challenges could drive manufacturer exits from the GTP/Hypercar competition, raising concerns about the sustainability of current factory racing programs.
ENTHUSIAST
Best Bluetooth FM Transmitters for Older Cars Tested
Testing reveals which portable FM transmitters deliver cleanest signal and easiest usability for bringing Bluetooth audio to aging vehicles.
F1

How Dieter Zetsche Influenced 2016 F1 Championship Battle
Nico Rosberg ultimately claimed the 2016 World Drivers' Championship by just 5 points over Lewis Hamilton in their dramatic title fight.
INDUSTRY

Škoda Develops Bicycle Bell That Penetrates Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The DuoBell aims to reduce rising pedestrian-cyclist collisions caused by noise-cancelling headphones blocking traditional warning sounds.
ENTHUSIAST
Weekly Car Deals: Spring Savings on Tools and Garage Gear
Spring offers ideal timing for car enthusiast to stock up on parts, tools, accessories, and garage equipment at discounted prices.
ENTHUSIAST

FAA Investigates Pilots Making Animal Sounds on Radio
Pilots caught meowing and barking at air traffic controllers below 10,000 feet have prompted federal investigation into communication safety protocols.
INDUSTRY
Average New Car Payments in America Exceed $800 Monthly
Rising transaction prices, negative equity, and extended loan terms have fundamentally reshaped the American automotive market landscape.
FORD

Ford Recalls 1.4 Million F-150s Over Unexpected Downshifts
Ford issues another major truck recall, affecting 1.4 million F-150 pickups experiencing unexpected transmission downshift issues.
Sources
- Jalopnik - Alex Honnold Las Vegas Sphere climb
- Road & Track - Acura IMSA GTP program
- Jalopnik - Acura IMSA racing future
- Road & Track - Best FM transmitters tested
- Jalopnik - Dieter Zetsche F1 2016 championship
- Jalopnik - Škoda DuoBell bicycle bell
- Road & Track - Weekly car deals
- Jalopnik - Pilots making animal sounds FAA investigation
- Road & Track - Average car payments over $800
- Jalopnik - Ford F-150 recall
