Ron Ananian The Car Doctor

From Florida heat to Maine winters to a single mom’s daily grind—this week’s Car Doctor covers it all. Tom from Lakeland asks if tire pressure should follow the placard or the sidewall in the Florida heat. Paul in Maine is burning through Prius rear brakes, and Ron explains the factory fix every Prius owner should know. Then Alicia from Illinois, with 227k miles on her Ford Escape, wonders if it’s time to repair or replace. Ron delivers practical tips, industry insights, and honest advice that every driver can use. Keywords: tire pressure tips in hot weather, Toyota Prius rear brake wear, Ford Escape overheating and AC failure, K-Seal head gasket sealer, certified pre-owned car buying advice. Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900 Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900 Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiffany’s $16,000 Jeep Corrosion Battle | Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Podcast Description: Jeep door hinge corrosion, costly repairs, and a year-long fight—Tiffany shares how she finally got Jeep to pay a $16,000 bill. Ron Ananian explains galvanic corrosion, hidden recall risks, and why some Chrysler and Crossfire repairs are so expensive. Tune in on your local radio affiliate or listen to the complete podcast for more tips, solutions and repair advice. Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900 Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ford F-350 Stall Mystery, Jeep Door Hinge Fail & VW Beetle Memories | The Car Doctor Podcast In this episode of Ron Ananian The Car Doctor, Ron digs into a puzzling Ford F-350 stall problem that mimics a fuel delivery issue despite holding steady fuel pressure. Learn his diesel truck troubleshooting approach, from checking PCM relay pins to comparing injector pulse width with MAP sensor readings, and why capturing data during failure is the key to solving intermittent stalling. Next, caller Tiffany recounts her battle with Jeep door hinge corrosion—a defect that cost $16,000 to repair but was finally covered after a year of persistence. She also shares the challenges of sourcing parts for a Chrysler Crossfire key fob and explains why her VW Beetle restoration project, a 1972 convertible, is still her favorite car. Ron wraps the hour discussing oil change mistakes to avoid—including why drawing oil through the dipstick can leave sludge behind—and offers transmission service tips on when and why to drop the pan instead of relying solely on a fluid exchange. Packed with mechanic shop stories, car troubleshooting tips, and real-world repair strategies, this episode delivers practical advice for both do-it-yourselfers and anyone navigating dealership repairs. Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900 Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Bad Car Repair Days Come in Bunches | The Car Doctor Podcast Some days in the auto repair shop feel like “grape days” — problems arrive in bunches, and every job fights you. In this episode of Ron Ananian The Car Doctor, Ron shares real mechanic shop stories from one such day. It starts with a Ford Escape turbo repair—a pricey vacuum line assembly tied to a rare fault code that turned into hours of labor. Then, two Hondas roll in with comeback potential: a Honda CR-V no start caused by a worn ignition switch, and a Honda Odyssey AC problem that turned out to be more about temperature settings than refrigerant. Listeners also call in with their own challenges. One Lexus owner fights brake squeal after an aftermarket pad and rotor install, while a classic car restoration enthusiast seeks Dodge Dart tire fitment advice after a Dana rear-end swap. Packed with car troubleshooting tips, repair shop insights, and practical fixes you can use, this episode proves even bad days in the shop can lead to solutions — and sometimes, a good laugh. Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900 Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

🎧 Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Episode Title: Ford Fusion Check Engine Mystery + Used Car Red Flags Summary: In this episode, Ron tackles a 2016 Ford Fusion with 166K miles showing P018B low fuel pressure and P0299 turbo underboost—a warning to anyone buying used GDI turbo cars without proper inspection. Learn why scan tool diagnostics should be mandatory before buying, especially in states like Florida with no emissions testing. Also on the show: A 2002 Ford Thunderbird gets a coolant flush—but what is a “coolant service kit”? A 2007 Chevy Colorado suffers from a failing PCM that only works when hot. A 2012 Honda Fit A/C quits in 107°F heat—Ron explains where to begin. Plus: Why cheap $79 oil changes may cost more than you think. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Title: Cadillac SRX Power Steering Fail, Tacoma Coolant Advice, F-150 Power Loss, and Parking Lot Tips Description: This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor: 🔧 A 2016 Cadillac SRX loses power steering, ABS, and StabiliTrak—and GM no longer makes the control module. Ron discusses whether a Delco replacement is worth the risk. 🌡️ A 2016 Toyota Tacoma owner asks if switching from pink to green coolant is safe. Ron breaks down coolant chemistry, the dangers of poor advice, and the right way to do a coolant exchange. ⚠️ A 2010 Ford F-150 with a 5.4L engine suffers from intermittent power loss. Ron explains how to use freeze frame and Mode 6 data to find the root cause. 🅿️ Plus, smart parking lot habits that reduce steering wear and improve safety. Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Call of the Week Each week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Radio Show, we spotlight one standout caller as our Call of the Week. It’s chosen for the originality of the problem, the clarity of the conversation, and the value it brings to you, the listener—whether it’s a tough diagnosis, a smart question, or just a great exchange. These calls remind us why we love talking cars and helping people. If you’re a podcast subscriber, think of this as your quick sample of the full show—insightful, entertaining, and maybe just the nudge you need to stay tuned for more. This week’s Call of the Week comes from Stephen in New Jersey, who’s shopping for a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 5.7L HEMI V8—and wants Ron’s take on reliability, used options, and extended warranties. He is literally standing outside of the dealership, as you can tell by the sounds of all the cars and trucks going by on the highway behind him. The conversation covers real-world pros and cons of Jeep and Chrysler products, from oil change intervals to parts distribution headaches. Ron gives an honest, mechanic’s-eye view: yes, Jeeps can be tanks—but they can also be trouble. The advice? Stick with low mileage, buy the V8 if it’s the one you want, don’t skimp on the service contract, and remember—when it comes to vehicles, like relationships, it pays to know their history. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Call Summary for this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor 1. 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee V8: Ron says: Buy low mileage, get a 5-year warranty, and don’t settle. V8 HEMI is solid with proper oil and service. "Don’t negotiate with yourself." 2. 2000 Lexus RX300 Battery Drain: Likely an intermittent draw. Use a thermal imager and min/max meter to catch it. "Draws aren’t always constant." 3. 2011 Honda Pilot Brake Pedal Sinking: Probably a bad new master cylinder. Plug ports to test. "Even OEM parts fail." Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor – Show Summary: “Proximity of Repair” This week, Ron explores the concept of proximity of repair—the idea that if a mechanic is already accessing one part of the car, related repairs nearby shouldn't be billed as full separate jobs. He illustrates this with a 2017 Toyota RAV4 that came in after a $79.95 oil change at a dealer. The customer was hit with nearly $5,000 in recommended repairs, including axles, seals, and ball joints. Ron broke down the quote and found much of the labor was inflated due to overlapping work. Ron warns against loss leader oil changes that lead to unnecessary upsells and urges listeners to question labor charges: “Are they already in that area of the car?” Always ask. This Weeks Calls: Anthony from Maine reports repeated issues with his 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid—dead battery, hybrid recall, and a Smart Key failure. Barbara called about her rusted 2010 Buick Lucerne. She’s put $4,000 into it but now needs $6,000 in bodywork to pass inspection. Ron’s advice: Don’t do it. The car’s too old, the rust too deep. Time to move on. The Mystery Battery Drain: Caller Fred has found a 2.6-amp draw on a 2005 Lesabre but couldn’t isolate it. Ron’s advice: Start with the underhood fuse box — it likely feeds the rest. Pulling fuses in the wrong order can mislead you. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Radio Show, we spotlight one standout caller as our Call of the Week. It’s chosen for the originality of the problem, the clarity of the conversation, and the value it brings to you, the listener—whether it’s a tough diagnosis, a smart question, or just a great exchange. These calls remind us why we love talking cars and helping people. If you’re a podcast subscriber, think of this as your quick sample of the full show—insightful, entertaining, and maybe just the nudge you need to stay tuned for more. This week’s standout call comes from Mark in Las Vegas, who raised a concern about a 2016 Toyota Highlander that can be left running and unattended—with no audible warning when the driver walks away with the key fob. Mark’s stepson discovered the issue after repeatedly leaving the car running and returning an hour later to find it still idling. Ron walks through possible causes, including a failed chime speaker, missed personalization settings, or even past aftermarket wiring changes. It’s a great reminder that even smart key systems need smart diagnostics—especially when safety’s at stake. Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing! Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, sat down with Spiro Morianis from BG Products to discuss smart summer prep for your vehicle. As road trips ramp up, they stressed the value of multipoint inspections—going beyond oil changes to check tires, fluids, and overall system health. Two commonly overlooked services stood out: Driveline fluid changes (differentials, transfer cases), especially in SUVs and trucks that tow or handle heavy loads. Fuel system cleaning, critical for GDI engines, which suffer from carbon buildup affecting performance and fuel economy. Regular use of products like BG 44K and occasional air intake cleanings keep engines running strong. Spiro also detailed BG’s Lifetime Protection Plan—a free, no-registration-needed warranty that rewards consistent maintenance with BG products. It's even transferable when you sell your vehicle and has covered major repairs, like a $4,000 engine job on a 341,000-mile car. Bottom line: Modern tune-ups mean full-system care, not just spark plugs. Stay proactive and keep your vehicle road-trip ready. More about BG Products at: BGFindAShop.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Car Doctor, Ron Ananian takes calls from real drivers facing real dilemmas. Debbie from Wisconsin wonders if it’s finally time to replace her trusty 2005 Ford Explorer — and Ron walks her through the pros and cons of keeping an aging SUV versus buying a costly modern crossover. From certified pre-owned tips to Wrangler warnings, it’s a masterclass in practical car buying advice. Later, John in Maine tracks down a pesky P0480 code after replacing the cooling fan in his Jeep Grand Cherokee. Ron dives into wiring diagrams, OE vs. aftermarket parts, and even post-collision troubleshooting. Finally, Paul from Virginia asks why there are so many kinds of antifreeze — and whether the "universal" stuff is actually safe. Ron breaks it down with an easy-to-follow answer rooted in engineering, not marketing. Have an aging ride or a mystery code of your own? Tune in, learn something, and maybe save yourself a bundle. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

🚗💡 “Cheaper” isn’t always smarter. This week the show, Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor shared two stories that hit home: One listener passed on Ron’s $1,229 AC repair quote — using OEM parts and solid labor — and chose the cheaper shop instead. Even though he admitted it might fail. Another caller inherited a beautiful 2004 Chevy van from his mom… but the frame was rotted out. Emotion said fix it. Logic — and Ron — said let it go. The takeaway? “The cost of quality is remembered long after the price is paid.” Car repair isn’t just about tools and parts — it’s about long-term thinking, safety, and trust. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Check out our Web Site for T-Shirts & Clothing!Follow Us On Instagram - @ronananian Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.