Ron Ananian The Car Doctor

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.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, takes call from Las Vegas. Harry has 2 older GM vehicles. A 2000 Chevy Tahoe and a 2012 Cadillac CTS. Both have some pretty serious problems and unfortunately Ron has to be the bearer of bad news. Harry from Vegas has a 2000 Tahoe burning oil badly on the highway and a 2012 Cadillac CTS with a leaking head gasket or maybe a porous engine block. Ron suspects stuck oil rings and suggests trying Stiction Eliminator before considering a rebuild. The second problem involves coolant loss and a porous engine block seeping coolant, maybe! Tune in for the details! 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.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor opens the show with a surprising report: new Chevy vans are under a “stop sale” unless you’re a fleet buyer purchasing six at a time. After verifying this with three NJ dealers, Ron questions why Chevy is pulling back on such a practical vehicle — especially when contractors and families still want vans, but can't get them. This leads to a broader rant: Ford dropped the Econoline for harder-to-service Transit vans, GM vans are disappearing, and essential parts like ignition coils for an 8-year-old van are already discontinued. His customer, unable to buy a new van, puts $11,000 into fixing up his 2016 — a move more and more drivers may face as parts dry up and new vehicle prices soar. Calls from listeners follow: Billy in Colorado is diagnosing EVAP codes on a Toyota Tacoma. Ron walks him through step-by-step testing of solenoids and sensors, emphasizing the role of the FTP sensor and proper use of a smoke machine. John with a 2006 Toyota 4Runner asks whether he should change his trans fluid after 140K miles. Ron says yes — if done gently and with the right WS-spec fluid using a BG fluid exchange, not a flush. Ron wraps by urging listeners: fall back in love with your car — because with limited availability, rising prices, and shrinking parts supply, you might be stuck with it longer than expected. 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.

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.

This is the stand alone interview from the June 7, 2025 Hour 1 Show. Ron Ananian ("The Car Doctor") and Isaac Nielsen of Mahle Aftermarket discuss modern automotive A/C systems, focusing on R-1234yf refrigerant and the importance of proper service equipment. R-1234yf replaced R-134a and requires stricter handling due to contamination risks. All A/C machines now include oxygen sensors and refrigerant identifiers to ensure refrigerant purity (≥98%) and prevent system damage. DIY charge kits and low-quality refrigerants (especially imports) can harm vehicles and equipment. Maintenance tips: Check filters for discoloration, clean internal lines with isopropyl alcohol, and flush hoses weekly. Oxygen sensors degrade over time, even in storage—only buy replacements when needed, as early shelf life affects performance. 🔧 Bottom line: Use quality refrigerant, maintain your machine, and monitor sensors to avoid costly failures. 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 Stand Alone Interview from the June 7th, 2025 Show: Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor sits down with Scott Brownstein of CRC Industries to talk about a wide range of topics and service procedures do's and don'ts for successful auto repair results. 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.

On this episode of The Car Doctor, Ron Ananian helps a caller with a 2002 Isuzu Trooper that lost four-wheel drive. He advises scanning for common fault codes tied to speed sensors or the vacuum switch but warns that parts for old Isuzus are hard to find, which may make repair impractical. Ron also addresses a prior caller’s claim that AC Delco batteries are subpar because they use recycled materials. A listener corrects this, pointing out that nearly all modern batteries are made with recycled components—a standard, environmentally responsible practice. Ron emphasizes the importance of proper diagnostics before replacing a battery. Later, CRC’s Scott Brownstein joins to discuss brake maintenance. He stresses the importance of cleanliness, proper "bedding in" of new pads and rotors, and using non-chlorinated brake cleaner. Using the wrong products, like carburetor cleaner, can compromise safety. Ron’s theme throughout: diagnose properly, use the right tools, and don’t cut corners. 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.

🚘 Today on Ron Ananian: The Car Doctor 🔧 Ron tackled myths, misdiagnoses, and the real science of fixing cars: 🔋 Battery Confusion – Cold = weak battery? Yes. But replacing it every 3–4 years “just because” is fear, not fact. 🚗 Toyota Knock – V6 top-end noise? Start simple: belt off, check VVT, use your ears before your wrench. 🛠️ Hyundai Headache – 1 year, $3.5K in parts, still no fix. Might not be the engine—could be the trans starting in 2nd gear. 🧠 The real fix? Science, logic, testing—not guessing. 🗣️ “Cars are physics, math, science. Fix them with facts—not fear.” 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.

🚗💬 This week on Ron Ananian: The Car Doctor 🔧 Ron tackled what really matters in car repair: honesty, method, and smart business. 🛑 "Reasonable Repair" – Don’t throw money at rust buckets. Ron helped a customer with a 17-year-old Mitsubishi realize when it's time to let go—focusing on safety first, not pointless repairs. 🔍 Main Call: 1973 Opel Manta – Paul’s classic car sputters & stalls. Ron lays out a step-by-step diagnostic plan: ✅ Spark strength ✅ Coil voltage ✅ Fuel pump vacuum test ✅ Tank restrictions ✅ Vacuum/timing check 📏 Diagnosis isn’t guesswork. It’s science + logic = results. 💡 Takeaway: ✔️ Be honest with customers ✔️ Diagnose methodically ✔️ Use slow weeks to sharpen your shop 🗣️ “No car is unfixable—only improperly diagnosed.” 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 starts this episode stating you never know what you’re going to get with auto repair with the story of a new customer with a vehicle with a salvage title : takes a call on a 14 Escalade with an oil leak at the oil cooling unit : takes a call on touch screens and using a stylus pen to operate, and talks about the brakes on a 25 vehicle that almost feels like the ABS is kicking in at inappropriate times : takes a call on an 09 Focus with a broken rear sway bar link and a cracked rear lower control arm : talks about a 10 Fusion with a brake problem that can’t be duplicated. 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 Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor he previews a Memorial Day tradition featuring a past interview with his late Uncle Steve, a WWII pilot. He takes a call from Nancy in Wisconsin, who asks about using fuel system cleaner in her 2020 Chevy Trax. Ron approves, recommending it at every oil change or monthly as preventative care. He also advises her to check if major services like the 30,000-mile maintenance were done and to prepare for the upcoming 60,000-mile service. He encourages staying informed and recommends resources like AutoBatteries.com and BGFindAShop.com. Ron shares shop stories emphasizing timely oil changes and praises the new Ford Mustang GT for its performance. He invites listeners to submit old Uncle Steve interviews to build a tribute archive and reflects on his uncle’s incredible wartime journey. The episode ends with a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation. 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 - Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Vehicle: 2008 Honda Ridgeline Issue: Blower fan and AC stop working after restarting the car (typically after refueling) Behavior: Comes back on after driving or waiting Happens intermittently Most Likely Cause: Blower Motor Power Transistor (Resistor Module) Controls blower speed and provides ground Common failure point on this vehicle Failure prevents both blower and AC compressor from working Recommended Action: Replace the blower motor power transistor Located under dash, by blower housing Use OEM or Denso for reliability Optional Diagnostics: Check for 12V at white/blue wire (blower power) Test blue/black wire for ground (from transistor) Bypass transistor ground to confirm blower motor works 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.

The Orchestration of a Repair Shop (Hosted by Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor) In this episode Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, takes listeners behind the scenes of a particularly hectic week at his repair shop, offering a candid and insightful look at the challenges of managing modern automotive repair. Known for his storytelling and deep industry knowledge, Ron reflects on what he calls the "orchestration" of a repair shop—comparing it to conducting a symphony filled with unexpected crescendos, missed beats, and moments of brilliance. The Week in Review: A Shop in Motion Ron opens the show with his usual musing on how best to kick things off and quickly dives into the unpredictable nature of auto repair. By mid-Tuesday, his shop had already taken in enough work to fill not only the current week but the next as well—despite having no appointments scheduled just days earlier. The sudden workload surge required fast thinking, tight coordination, and prioritization of repairs, each with its own “personality,” as Ron describes. Notable Cases from the Shop 1. The 2005 PT Cruiser — Delayed Maintenance Revisited One story involves a longtime customer driving a PT Cruiser that had been neglected for over a decade. Twelve years ago, Ron had warned her that the car needed a timing belt and cooling system service. She chose to ride it into the ground. Now, the vehicle was back, experiencing overheating symptoms. The team couldn’t find any obvious faults during multiple road tests, so Ron decided to install a new thermostat and use a bottle of K-Seal, a trusted sealer for aging engines. The customer, now in her mid-80s, was given this cost-effective solution—likely the last fix before the car’s final ride. 2. 2011 Chrysler Town & Country — Rust Never Sleeps Another job involved a Town & Country with worn control arm bushings. Though the car had been parked in dry Arizona for years, corrosion had made basic repairs almost impossible. Axles couldn’t be removed, bolts were fused, and the team had to lower the engine cradle to complete the job. It was a harsh reminder that rust doesn't always follow logic—and that even straightforward jobs can turn into complex undertakings. 3. 2012 Cadillac SRX — The Manufacturer’s "White Lie" A first-time customer brought in an SRX with a warning message claiming the engine was overheating. But the problem wasn’t what it seemed. The thermostat had failed in the open position, causing the engine to run too cool, not too hot. Ron explained how GM’s system defaults to turning on the cooling fans and disabling the temperature gauge in such cases—a strategic design intended to force customers into a shop, even if the car isn't technically overheating. For this customer, who had done almost no maintenance on the car aside from oil changes, Ron had to delicately break the news that it probably wasn’t worth fixing due to the car's poor overall condition. 4. 2009 Toyota Camry — The Avalanche of Neglect Perhaps the most dramatic case of the week involved a Toyota Camry that came in for a simple oil change—but left the team buried in an avalanche of repairs. Years of deferred maintenance came to a head: the water pump was failing, the radiator was leaking, the belts were dangerously cracked, and more. Ron had warned the customer years ago that ignoring needed maintenance would lead to catastrophic failure—and this week, it all hit at once. Despite being overbooked, the shop managed to complete the job, but not without major hurdles. Just as Ron was wrapping up the repair late Friday afternoon, a new problem emerged: a loud knocking noise. After a tense diagnostic process, he traced the sound to the alternator, which had developed a bearing failure—likely caused by the earlier water pump issue. The car would need to return the following week for even more work. Final Thoughts Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, brings decades of experience and unmatched storytelling to every episode. This one stands out as a perfect...

Ron starts this episode with a call on a 19 Honda with intermittent touch screen : takes a call on a 78 Marquis that has been parked for 40 years, and the caller wants to know how to proceed to get it on the road : takes a call on an 08 Range Rover where the transmission drops out of gear when accelerating : talks about strange emails he receives : talks about losing coolant and the use of K-Seal : answers an email on an 18 VW and a change in oil specifications for the vehicle : answers an email about a jump starter and the writer asks about air compressors about the same size : answers an email about brakes on an 18 Toyota. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com 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.