In Memoriam: Tom Magliozzi of "Car Talk," 77

It's a little quieter in Harvard Square today, after the passing of "Car Talk" host Tom Magliozzi at the age of 77.

Tom, who hosted the popular radio call-in show with his brother, Ray, died from complications relating to Alzheimer's disease, according to NPR. Tom was known for his signature, nasal laugh and comical chortle, as the Magliozzi brothers hosted the popular NPR radio show from their Boston studio to a national audience from 1987 to 2012.

Hours of endless talk about burnt rotors, misfiring cylinders, and cracked carburetors might not seem the most practical formula for attracting a radio audience, but it worked for Tom and Ray for almost a quarter of a century. The duo inspired countless automotive programs and the careers of aspiring radio hosts (including this writer).

And it wasn't always about cars: sometimes their most practical and usable advice comforted the lovelorn and consoled others in need.

"We each benefit from whatever has been done by our predecessors," Tom said, at the 1999 commencement ceremony of MIT where he joined his brother onstage for the address.

You will be missed, Tom.