Integra Type S Review; Spray-on PPF?; Are Tire Changes a Bad Sign?

Thu Feb 19 2026

Matt Farah and Zack Klapman review the 2026 Acura Integra Type S; a new contestant to our towing vehicle list; can you "fix" a 20 year-old Subaru; why your project car needs an e-brake; and Patreon questions include: How to get CARB organization into car culture Did we ever steal our parents' cars? Favorite crazy modded cars we've driven RWD sedans with a Miatas ethos Has this CPO Lexus LC500 had too many tires? If we could only have one rental car ever... Does Ford suck at colors? Why do small hypercar companies use the outdated single-clutch gearboxes? Is aesthetic carbon played out now that Ferrari says so? Is a C6 Z06 that good over a C5? Vintage GT cars How to drive a RHD car Rap video cars Is spray-on PPF any good? And more! Recorded February 17, 2026 Show Notes Hello Fresh Go to https://HelloFresh.com/smokingtire10fm to Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last. Free meals applied as di...

Transcript

Matt Farah (0:00)

What up, everybody? Welcome to the Smoking Tire Podcast. Today's episode is brought to you by off the Record. We love them over here because I know that off the Record is looking out for me 24, 7 when I'm on the road, no matter where I am in the continental United States. Because their coverage extends to basically 97% of the continental United States and some Alaska and Hawaii. Off the Record is a service that connects you with a qualified attorney to fight any ticket you might got no matter where you are. So you get a ticket near home, maybe you have somebody. But what if you're in a different state? You don't want to go back there and deal with the court system on your own. That's why off the Record is here. All you have to do is go to offtherecord.com TST. That's offtherecord.com Tst then you're going to upload a photo of the ticket, some information about what happened, your version of events, so to speak. And off the Record, we'll fight that ticket on your behalf all the way to the Supreme Court if need be. And most of the time they get her done over there. And their goal is to get those points off your record. You don't want points on your record because it could affect your insurance, could affect potentially your employment, a variety of other things. So offtherecord.com TST for 10% off all legal services. They are out there looking out for you. All right, folks, on this episode, Zach and I review the Acura Integra type S. Spoiler alert. We like it very much. I find a new option that enters the field in our competition to find the best towing option for our potentially free trailer. And we talk a little more about our thoughts on AI in the YouTube space to clarify some things from last week's show. Plus, can you or should you un shitbox. A 20 year old Subaru. It's the Smoking Tire podcast. Let's go. Hi. This is a show. Hello.

Zach (2:04)

This is a show.

Matt Farah (2:05)

Hello. Hello.

Zach (2:06)

The American Brother broadcast system.

Matt Farah (2:08)

Hello. From the land of fatty meat dreams.

Zach (2:14)

Pretty sure that's what happened.

Matt Farah (2:15)

Zach said he was having fatty meat dreams.

Zach (2:17)

I've just had a lot of weird nightmares last night. I don't have that very often.

Matt Farah (2:20)

Really?

Zach (2:21)

Yeah. And I felt really, really full after dinner even though we didn't get, like things that seemed heavy.

Summary

The Smoking Tire Podcast: Integra Type S Review; Spray-on PPF?; Are Tire Changes a Bad Sign?

Hosts: Matt Farah & Zack Klapman
Date: February 19, 2026
Episode Overview:
In this episode, Matt and Zack deliver a hands-on review of the new Acura Integra Type S, debate automotive industry trends, discuss the practicalities and trade-offs with modern tow vehicles, examine the implications of AI in publishing and YouTube, and field thoughtful listener questions—from “un-shitboxing” a Subaru to the reality of frequent tire changes on a used Lexus LC500. Along the way, signature wit, tangents, and real-world enthusiast perspectives abound.

Main Theme

A blend of accessible car culture discussion and practical advice, centered on a deep-dive review of the Acura Integra Type S as a modern enthusiast’s do-it-all car. The episode also explores the realities of car ownership, emerging automotive tech like spray-on paint protection, AI’s effects on car media, and broader car-community questions.

Acura Integra Type S: Review & Insights

[06:26–14:03]

Driving Experience:
- Described as "a simple and well-executed car"—engages all aspects an enthusiast wants: good inputs, lightweight, responsive, comfortable seats, excellent shifter, usable infotainment. “Not too much like, screens in your face,” Matt notes, with praise for its traditional yet digital cluster ([07:50]).
- Feels surprisingly light: “It feels like it doesn’t weigh anything.” ([07:53] – Matt)
- Large, practical trunk/hatchback; hosts wish for an optional rear wiper due to rain buildup ([07:57]).
- “I really like the price—$53,000 as it sits. …Considering how many different boxes this thing checks and how few affordable sports cars are left on the market…” ([08:26] – Matt)
Comparison to Civic Type R:
- About $6k more than a Civic Type R.
- Stereo (ELS) is outstanding and seats are “just right” for comfort—especially lumbar support, which edges out the Civic.
- Civic’s bolsters are better for spirited driving; if Acura had them with lumbar support it’d be “one of the best seats ever.” ([09:23] – Zack)
- Slightly softer, more refined for daily, but less aggressive.
- Better looking, in Matt’s view.
- “Japan’s M3, kind of.” ([13:51] – Zack)
Fuel Economy & Practicality:
- Fuel economy “not great” at sustained highway speeds—smaller tank means less range than expected for the car’s size ([10:34]).
- Noted differences may come from tire spec (Cup 2s vs. PS4S) and Civic’s draggy wing ([11:30-12:00]).
- Easily manageable for city and highway—“Even though it’s a stick, the clutch is so light and the shifter’s so easy.”
Performance & Track Use:
- Advanced drivers may quickly reach its limits: “You’re gonna get to the limit of the car in your first couple of sessions… it probably won’t challenge you.” ([12:24] – Matt)
- Still, “such a good, do everything, pick-an-activity” car—nothing it’s truly bad at.
- Hosts advise against heavy modification: “It’s such diminishing returns.” ([13:33] – Matt)
Comparisons & Legacy:
- “Nicest driving front-wheel-drive car I’ve ever driven.”
- Recalls previous favorites: R53 Mini JCW, Fiesta ST, Mark 7 GTI, and legendary Acura CL Type S.
- Reminisces about failed attempts to buy earlier great Honda models due to unavailability ([14:48]).

Notable Quotes

“This car, what was I driving right before it? …the Acura is just a simple and well executed car that engages basically everything that people who like cars ask for.” ([06:50] – Matt)
“If I never rode this new one, the 310 [Vespa], there would be absolutely nothing wrong with keeping mine forever. …It’s just that now I’ve had a taste.” ([06:04] – Matt, on loaners and upgrades)

Industry News, Towing Rigs, Lexus GX550

[24:30–31:17]

Towing Search:
- Lexus GX550 enters the hosts’ personal tow rig competition.
- “Can tow 9,000 pounds and has adjustable, self-leveling air suspension. …It’s a lot of money [~$75-80k], but a lot cheaper than a Cayenne.” ([27:43] – Matt)
- Breakdown of trims and towing capacities; considered for practicality, not passion.
- “Hannah likes boxy shit.” ([28:59] – Matt, about spouse’s taste)
- Suggests premium trim for best value.
Ride Quality:
- Overtrail model drove “really trucky” on highway ([29:20]), but hopes premium, road-focused versions might ride better.

AI Disrupting Online Content & YouTube Frustrations

[31:17–43:16]

AI as Content Thief:
- How generative AI and large language models (LLMs) scrape content from small creators, reducing their already thin ad revenue — recipe sites are highlighted as a poignant example.
- “All they wanted was a click…LLMs just scrape it right off.” ([32:57] – Matt)
- “With recipes it absolutely fucking does [steal traffic].” ([35:25] – Matt)
Shift in Media Promotion:
- Vent about how cross-promotion between YouTube, Instagram, and other platforms has been neutered; platforms downrank external links, hurting organic, creator-driven discovery ([37:52]).
Changing YouTube Landscape:
- Discussion about YouTube becoming less meritocratic, now favoring “cringy” content, clickbait, or Jack-and-Logan Paul types over high-effort journalism or videos.
- “We know what gets good traffic, and it’s cringy as fuck.” ([36:22] – Matt)
- “The audience will find you… because there’s someone else out there that has a similar brain.” ([37:07] – Zack, quoting Patton Oswald, but noting it’s not so simple now)
- They believe the algorithm rewards spectacle over substance, and that older creators’ revenue/visibility is purposely being squeezed.

Listener Q&A Highlights

(Patreon Questions included throughout from [43:16] onward)

Spray-On Paint Protection Film

[78:32–80:27]

Plasti-Dip has released a spray-on PPF—applies like a wrap, peels off for easy track day use.
“People put painter’s tape on their car; it doesn’t do shit.” ([80:09] – Matt)
Useful as a temporary track solution, but hosts express caution about long-term use and residue.

Buying Used: Frequent Tire Changes on Lexus LC500

[51:40–54:14]

Listener’s parents are wary of a CPO LC500: two alignments and five sets of tires in 45k miles.
“Maybe that person drives spiritedly… You could blow off a set of Michelins in 9,000 miles.” ([53:23] – Matt)
Forums confirm: “That seems about right. The front end’s heavy, it’s got soft tires from stock.” ([54:07] – Zack)
Conclusion: Not unusual for that car.

Un-"Shitboxing" an ’06 Subaru WRX Wagon

[65:22–67:48]

What mods to make an old Subaru less of a beater?
Hosts recommend sound deadening, updated carpet/headliner, modern suspension, a decent stereo—focus is on comfort and livability rather than speed.

Tire & Rim Choices for a Lifted BRZ

[83:55–85:05]

Advice: Drop to 16” wheels for more sidewall, have separate tarmac and gravel tire sets.
"If you can afford two sets of wheels and tires, that's the answer." ([85:14] – Matt)

Rental Car Philosophy

[54:41–55:49]

Matt: Always take a minivan. “I’ve never been in a situation with a rental car where I had a minivan and wished I didn’t.”
Zack: Chevy Tahoe is his utility pick.

Secret Pre-License Driving

[76:12–77:23]

Hosts recount parents letting them drive in parking lots or quiet neighborhoods before licenses—early hands-on learning is invaluable.

Notable Moments & Quotes

On car buying and responsibility:
“The way we acted about our cars was very different from people who were given cars… We treated not just the car but the responsibility of driving way differently.” ([81:56] – Matt)
On overdone carbon fiber:
“Having carbon fiber accents is trashier than having camo accents.” ([63:09] – Listener question)
“There is a way to use naked carbon fiber in a way that looks cool, but they don’t always do that. Sometimes it can look plasticky, sometimes they overdo it.” ([63:16] – Matt)
Podcast’s endearing tone:
“Thank you, everybody. Appreciate y’all—patrons, even you guys, who talked mad shit. Appreciate you too.” ([92:32] – Matt)

Other Key Segments / Timestamps

Restaurant Tangent / LA Life: [02:06–05:32] (local eats, Vespa rides, LA winter woes)
Vespa 310 Ride & Value Retention: [05:12–06:11]
Modified Car Memories: [77:38–78:32] (nutty engine swaps remembered fondly)
Ford Colors: [57:45–61:14] (theory: each year, Ford offers one “real” color that’s a stunner, rest are bland)
Hypercar Gearbox Choices: [61:17–63:16] (explaining why top hypercars still use single-clutch automated if not dual-clutch)
Performance SUV Use at Rallies: [90:07–92:29] (they’re accepted by most, but sometimes with grumbling)

Overall Vibe & Takeaways

Informed, informal, and fun: Matt and Zack balance concrete expertise with the humility of real-world car owners—unscripted, honest, and approachable.
Episode’s Heart: Integra Type S—a worthy modern icon for enthusiasts seeking usable practicality without sacrificing spirit.
Larger Themes: The challenge of balancing passion and practicality, living with the realities of platform shifts in automotive media, and always: the joy (and madness) of car culture.

For listeners who want to catch up quickly, this summary covers all core themes, standout moments, and practical advice from the episode. Skip the ads, enjoy the vibe, and refer to the timestamps for deeper dives into each topic!