Ron Ananian The Car Doctor

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Hour 1 - October 3, 2026

Sometimes a trouble code is like waking up with a pain in your neck. Your body knows something isn't right — and so does your car.

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor™, Ron follows the clues on a 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid that keeps revealing problems one at a time. First it was a failed grille shutter actuator. Then an EGR high-flow code. Then an airbag sensor fault.

And then Ron pulled up the interior trim.

There was a nest. Chewed wiring. And suddenly, an accident that supposedly never happened became part of the story.

Ron explains why good diagnostics are often sequential — fix what you can prove is broken, clear the way, and see what the vehicle tells you next.

Then Steve from Virginia calls about his 2013 Honda Civic with nearly 194,000 miles and a frustrating drop from roughly 23–24 MPG around town to just 18. Ron walks through a practical fuel-economy diagnostic strategy, including mass airflow readings, coolant temperature, thermostat operation, intake deposits, fuel quality, tire pressure, idle time, and why you should verify the dashboard MPG calculation the old-fashioned way.

Also in this hour:

Why fault codes don't lie — but don't always tell the whole story

How moisture can destroy a Ford DPFE/EGR pressure sensor

Why evidence of rodents changes the entire diagnostic game

What a 1.8-liter engine's mass airflow reading can tell you

Why changing oil viscosity because of hot weather isn't necessarily a good idea

The CRC 05320 fuel-system cleaning kit

Why learning a skilled trade can provide more than just a paycheck

And Ron comes back to one of the most important rules in diagnosis:

“Tell me what's good, and I'll tell you what's bad.”

Because good mechanics don't start by guessing what's broken.
They prove what works.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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BEST OF THE CAR DOCTOR  - Hour 2 - September 26, 2026 

What’s the most expensive number in car ownership?

It’s not the sticker price.
It’s not the monthly payment.
It’s not even the repair bill.

It’s cost per mile—the number almost nobody calculates until it’s too late.

This hour, Ron explains why modern vehicles demand a different approach to ownership and how looking ahead can save you from making an expensive decision later.

A real shop conversation asks the tough question: If your vehicle has $5,000 worth of repairs coming, is it still worth fixing? Ron also digs into why car ownership can’t be purely emotional, the debate over start-stop technology and long-term engine wear, and a Subaru recall involving potential fuel leakage and fire risk.

Being a good mechanic today sometimes means being a fortune teller—helping drivers see what’s coming before it gets expensive.

Because the smartest car owners don’t just react to repairs.

They plan for them.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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BEST OF THE CAR DOCTOR  - Hour 1 - September 26, 2026 

This Hour of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor™ is for the Weekend Wrenchers—the driveway DIYers, toolbox in hand, trying to save money and keep their vehicles going as cars get more complicated by the minute.

Ron looks at how modern technology is changing the DIY repair game. Oil changes, filters, fluids and some brake work may still be within reach, but more repairs now require scan tools, service-mode procedures and information that can stop even an experienced DIYer in his tracks. A late-model GM brake job shows exactly where determination can turn into frustration.

Calls include advice on bringing a low-mileage 2018 Toyota RAV4 back to life after sitting for months; a Chrysler van with a fuel smell and intermittent stutter; and a 2010 Ford with a rough idle and questions about what the scan data is really saying.

It’s a practical hour about what you can still fix in the driveway, where modern cars push back—and why knowing your limits may be the smartest repair of all.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Hour 2 - September 19, 2026

You bought the car. You made the payments. But when it needs repair, who really gets to decide who can fix it?

This week on The Car Doctor, Ron Ananian digs into the growing Right to Repair battle and explains why it goes far beyond getting a wiring diagram. Modern vehicles depend on software, secure gateways, scan tools, programming and telematics—and access to that technology may ultimately determine where your vehicle can be repaired.

Ron explains why Right to Repair is really about something much simpler: consumer choice.

Plus, a BMW M8 Competition that mysteriously needed spark plugs at only 5,000 miles, a longtime listener trying to push his Honda toward 400,000 miles, and Ron finishes the complicated cooling-system repair on a 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid—with a little help from the OPUS IVS platform.

And sometimes the hardest automotive problems have the simplest answers: a Chevy Silverado with an annoying squeak proves once again why good diagnosis still matters.

Real cars. Real problems. Real answers.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Hour 1 - September 19, 2026

There’s a storm brewing in the automotive world—and this time it isn’t just about the price of gasoline.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor™, takes a firsthand look at the growing engine-oil shortage as repair shops and retailers begin facing purchasing restrictions, prices climb and certain viscosities and specifications become harder to find. Why is this happening, how long could it last, and what should you be doing now to protect your vehicle?

Ron explains why modern engines require very specific oils, why simply grabbing the right viscosity off the shelf may not be enough, and why using the wrong specification to get through a shortage could become an expensive mistake.

Then it’s back to the phones: a 2000 Chevy Silverado with mysterious transmission and transfer-case problems raises an important diagnostic question—could something as simple as a bad ground be causing all the trouble?

Plus, with the cost of replacing a vehicle continuing to climb, Ron goes back to basics with practical maintenance advice: air and cabin filters, throttle-body cleaning, fuel-system service and the little things that can help your car run better and last longer.

Because today, it seems you have two choices: car payments or repair bills. Taking care of what you already own has never mattered more.

Real cars. Real problems. Real answers.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Hour 2 - September 12, 2026

Auto repair doesn’t always go according to plan—and sometimes just getting to the problem is half the battle.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, takes you inside the service bay with a 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid suffering from a communication fault with its active grille shutter system. Multiple scan tools, OE-level diagnostics, circuit testing and a lot of disassembly eventually reveal the real culprit: a corroded power wire buried deep in the harness. It’s a perfect example of why good diagnostics have to be slow, methodical and proven—not guessed.

Then the phones light up. A listener with a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee has a “Service Shift Selector” warning and suddenly no reverse. Ron explains why the transmission itself may not be the problem and uses an old-fashioned landline telephone system to make today’s vehicle computer networks easy to understand.

Next, what do you do with a 2002 Honda with an incredible 323,000 miles and a slight transmission engagement delay? Repair it, replace the transmission—or leave well enough alone? Ron weighs the economics of keeping an older vehicle alive.

Plus: Ford 3.5L internal water-pump failures, Nissan ABS/VDC problems, wheel-speed diagnostics, and preparing a diesel for winter.

Real cars. Real problems. Real-world diagnosis.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Hour 1 - September 12, 2026

Where do great mechanics come from? Are they born with “the touch,” or can it be taught?

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, looks at the technician shortage from a different angle: maybe the automotive industry hasn’t done enough to nurture the next generation.

Ron remembers a young trade-school graduate named Gus who knew the procedures—but one flat tire at the far end of the shop parking lot revealed something his education hadn’t taught him: how to improvise when the procedure no longer fits the situation. It leads Ron back to one of his father’s lessons: follow steps one through ten—but also know when the repair demands that you think outside the box.

Then there’s Danny. Years ago, Danny walked into Ron’s shop carrying an F-150 steering knuckle and needing help pressing ball joints. Ron handed him the tools and instructions and watched. Within half an hour, Danny had figured it out himself. Ron knew immediately: “Kid, you’ve got it.”

Nature or nurture? Maybe great mechanics require some of both.

Ron also gets back to the nuts and bolts with a 1996 Ford 7.3L Power Stroke water-pump repair—a job that reminds him how much fun working on an older truck can be after spending days diagnosing and disassembling a technology-packed Ford Escape Hybrid.

Plus: hunting down an obsolete Fiat 500 trunk latch, diagnosing P0420/P0430 catalytic-converter faults, aftermarket versus OE catalytic converters, and why a trouble code should begin a diagnosis—not automatically dictate the repair.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor — Car Advice, Done Right.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Hour 1 - September 5, 2026

A 2020 GMC Denali arrives at R\A Automotive on a tow truck with an intermittent no-crank—and a history that would make any mechanic stop and think. Nearly three years, five different shops, multiple starters, and the same problem keeps coming back.

Ron starts where every diagnosis should start: at the beginning. Working with GM expert Ernesto through the OPUS IVS diagnostic platform, Ron separates clues from conclusions, uses factory service information and pattern-failure knowledge, and begins proving what the problem ISN’T. The trail eventually leads to a loaded voltage-drop test, a questionable negative battery cable, and a starter-solenoid connection that has seen its share of previous repairs.

It’s a real-world lesson in why replacing parts isn’t the same as diagnosing a car—and why sometimes the most valuable question a technician can ask is: What have I proved right, and what have I proved wrong?

Also this hour: when should you get a wheel alignment, why a car can be out of alignment without pulling, an A/C system that cools until the Florida heat arrives, and why guessing at refrigerant charge can create more problems than it solves.

Real calls. Real cars. Real diagnostics. Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - September 5, 2026 - Hour 1

A 2015 Dodge Durango arrives on a flatbed over the weekend with a crank-no-start. The tow-truck diagnosis? Fuel pump.

Maybe?!

By Monday morning, the Durango starts perfectly—and that’s where the real diagnosis begins. Rather than throw a fuel pump at it, Ron goes back to basics: codes, fuel pressure, fuel volume, current draw and finally a thermal imager. That’s when one electrical connector starts telling the story, climbing past 160 degrees.

The fuel pump wasn’t the problem. A failing connection in the fuel-pump circuit was.

Then comes problem number two: Chrysler’s apparent solution involves a wiring harness costing roughly $3,200. Ron keeps digging through service information, part numbers and cross-references until he finds the connector needed to make the repair for under $200.

Same vehicle. Same failure. Completely different repair.

Also this hour: a listener with a 2020 Honda Odyssey that intermittently loses electrical power, why a battery can test “good” and still deserve a closer look, the importance of loaded voltage-drop testing, and a 2004 Cadillac SRX presenting a different challenge—what do you do when the parts you need simply aren't available?

The lesson? A symptom is a clue, not a conclusion. Test the basics, prove what's good, find what's bad—and sometimes, think outside the box.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 29, 2026

How many scan tools does it take to fix one car? Sometimes more than you think.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, takes you into the service bay with a 2022 Honda HR-V that came in for routine maintenance and turned into a lesson about just how complicated modern auto repair has become. After service and resets, the TPMS and traction-control warnings wouldn’t cooperate. Multiple aftermarket scan tools couldn’t complete the necessary calibration—but access to the Honda factory-level tool finally got the job done.

Ron explains why today’s independent repair shop needs more than one scan tool, why factory-level access is becoming increasingly important, and why scan-tool manufacturers need to do a better job of telling technicians the exact conditions required before a calibration or reset can succeed.

Also this hour: Tom tries Ford’s new mobile oil-change service and asks whether convenience can really replace putting a vehicle on a lift in a properly equipped shop. A caller battles a terrible interior odor after an ozone-machine treatment, Ron explains permanent diagnostic trouble codes, and there’s an update on the 1972 Monte Carlo.

Finally, Ron looks at a 95,000-mile used Hyundai for a customer and raises an increasingly important question: With the price and complexity of today’s used cars, is an extended warranty becoming part of the cost of buying one?

Modern cars are complicated. Having the right tool—and knowing how to use it—can make all the difference.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor -  August 29, 2026

Sometimes fixing cars starts with knowing which cars—and which customers—not to take on.

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, opens this hour with the story of a first-time customer looking for the cheapest possible brake job on her Lincoln. She already had another shop’s diagnosis, didn’t want to pay for an initial vehicle inspection, and questioned why Ron needed to look at anything beyond the front brakes. Ron explains why policies, procedures and managing expectations aren’t obstacles to good auto repair—they’re part of doing the job right.

Then it’s into the phones and mailbag: an intermittent ABS light on a 2010 Toyota Corolla, the high cost of modern vehicle repairs, a 2009 RAV4 with 202,000 miles and a failing transmission, CVT judder questions, a missing Lexus wheel-lock key, and one of the most difficult brake jobs around—the Ford Transit.

Plus, Ron shares a lesson from his first boss that has stayed with him for 50 years: cars will always need good brakes, good tires, a reliable battery and good wiper blades. Safety first.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 22, 2026

Tune into this hour of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor as he welcomes Matt Moore of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety,iihs.org  .  The conversation is all about the cost of repairing vehicles today. Does the safety equipment on the vehicle raise the price? Or is it something else? The answers will surprise you!

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Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 22, 2026

Ron opens the show today warning us of the problems he is experiencing with the availability and rising price of engine oil and all oil based products. He brings his perspective honed in the shop to air so we can all understand why our next oil change will cost more AND why we should be concerned if it doesn't. 

Later in the hour he sits down with Jerry Reeves of Dayco products discussing serpentine & timing belts and timing chains. The how, the why and the when' of replacement.  And the importance of paying attention to all of the systems.

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 15, 2026 

A new battery. A new starter. And the Jeep still doesn't start correctly. Ron begins this hour with a reminder that replacing parts isn't diagnosing a problem. Modern vehicles can be incredibly sensitive to voltage, and sometimes the difference between starting and not starting comes down to a few tenths of a volt. Tell me what's good, and I'll tell you what's bad. Test first. Replace second.

Then the conversation turns to a 2009 Toyota Tacoma approaching 200,000 miles with a possible head-gasket problem, and Ron discusses how to confirm the diagnosis—and whether repairing an older truck can still make more financial sense than replacing it.

A particularly important call involves an 80-year-old Mustang owner experiencing frightening engine surges while stopping. Is it an intermittent vehicle problem—or could the driver unknowingly be pressing the brake and accelerator at the same time? Ron talks about troubleshooting the car while also preserving the dignity and independence of an aging driver.

Finally, an owner wonders whether it's time to retire his 159,000-mile Hyundai after several recent repairs. Ron puts the repair bills against the cost of a $24,000 replacement and asks the question every longtime car owner eventually faces: When have you gotten your money's worth—and when is it finally time to move on?   

Car Advice, Done Right 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 15, 2026

When did owning a car become so complicated—and so expensive?

Ron looks at the real cost of modern vehicle ownership, from a 2017 Ford Explorer facing thousands of dollars in water pump and timing-chain repairs to today's technology-packed vehicles where cameras, radar, modules, software, and networks all have to keep working long after the new-car smell is gone.

The question becomes: Is it cheaper to repair the car in your driveway, or start over with another one?

Ron also explains why maintenance remains one of the few automotive expenses you can actually control—and why the cheapest repair can ultimately become the most expensive one.
Plus, listener calls tackle Toyota fuel-trim diagnostics, a nearly new Chevy Silverado with a surprisingly complicated transmission-fluid service, and a 1980s Chevy Celebrity from Mexico City with an idle problem. Along the way, Ron asks another increasingly important question: Have modern cars become so complicated that we've taken basic serviceability out of the owner's hands?

Car Advice, Done Right

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 8, 2026 - Hour 2

When does a big repair bill make sense on an older, high-mileage vehicle? Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, talks with a listener facing that exact decision on a 2017 Ford Explorer with 225,000 miles and a failed internal water pump. Instead of simply asking, “Is the car worth the repair?” Ron looks at the bigger question: What would it cost to replace the vehicle—and how many more years can you realistically get out of the one you already own?

Then it’s back to diagnostics with a 1991 Ford Bronco suffering from cold-start and stalling problems, followed by a Cadillac with a dangerously hot negative battery cable that points toward a ground or connection problem.

Ron also revisits his Five-Minute Rule for the repair shop: if a technician has been struggling with something for more than five minutes, it’s time to ask for help. Good mechanics get the job done; great mechanics learn better ways to get it done.

Plus, why replacement bulbs for older vehicles are becoming harder to find, carbon-cleaning possibilities that could turn a $6,000 repair into a $500 repair, and Ron follows up on the debate over whether premium gasoline really contains more detergent than regular.

Car Advice, Done Right — with Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - August 8, 2026 - Hour 1

What separates a good mechanic from a great one? Sometimes it’s not what you know—it’s being willing to learn a better way and then pass it along.

Ron opens this episode with a story from another repair shop, where a frustrated technician was fighting a set of parking brake shoes on a Dodge Ram. A few minutes, a different approach, and a little shared experience turned frustration into a lesson: good mechanics get it done; great mechanics figure out better ways to do it. It’s also a reminder that the next generation of technicians needs experienced mechanics willing to teach, not simply stand back and watch them struggle.

Then the phones take over. Bill from Iowa shares the remarkable story of the 1938 Chevrolet he bought in 1962—and still owns today—including a Route 66 trip to California. John calls back about the mysterious 2020 Silverado engine that was mechanically locked but later freed up, leading Ron through the question every diagnostician eventually faces: Do you keep taking it apart, or are you closer to putting it together and seeing what it tells you?

Plus, a Honda Pilot suffers catastrophic engine damage after a timing belt fails only about 30,000 miles after replacement, raising questions about parts, workmanship and what was actually replaced.

And Ron closes with another issue facing repair shops today: When does the condition of a customer's vehicle become a health or safety hazard for the technician expected to work on it?

Experience, diagnostics, responsibility and a little wisdom from the service bay on this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor.

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August 1, 2026  Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor

Ever wonder why your mechanic asks that you bring your vehicle in with fuel in the tank? Ron explains why arriving with only a few miles to empty can delay repairs, prevent proper road testing, increase diagnostic time, and even create unnecessary liability for both the customer and the repair shop.

Then Ron answers listener questions about choosing the right brake lubricant, waking up a PT Cruiser after months of sitting idle, and whether "lifetime" transmission fluid really lasts a lifetime on a high-mileage Ram pickup.

It's another hour of practical automotive advice, real repair stories, and the honest perspective that only comes from someone working in the service bay every day.

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August 1, 2026  Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor

With new vehicle prices climbing toward record highs and replacement costs continuing to rise, Ron explains why the smartest financial decision may be taking better care of the vehicle already sitting in your driveway.

He discusses the true cost of replacing a car versus repairing one, why deferred maintenance often turns into expensive repairs, and why a trusted repair shop is protecting far more than your transportation—it's protecting your investment.

Later, Ron answers listener questions about 88-octane gasoline, diagnosing electrical problems without guessing, cruise control repairs on a Chrysler, and tracking down an interior lighting issue on a Buick.

It's another hour of practical automotive advice, real-world diagnostics, and common-sense financial thinking from the repair bay.

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July 25, 2026 

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron explains why the best repairs begin with the basics—not assumptions. A 2010 Ford Explorer with transmission trouble leads to a deeper discussion about water-damaged electronics, obsolete parts, and why replacing the obvious problem first often saves time and money. Then it's a conversation about Subaru's automatic stop/start system, warranty concerns, and whether aftermarket modifications really put you at risk.

Ron also welcomes Tony Ingram of Advance Auto Parts to discuss the right way to wash, wax, and protect your vehicle, including the growing popularity of ceramic coatings and why proper maintenance protects far more than just your paint. The hour wraps up with practical advice on restoring an older GM door latch when replacement parts no longer exist, plus a quick Mailbag answer on Nissan Titan steering repairs.

Whether you're chasing an electrical gremlin, wondering if a modification is worth the risk, or just trying to make your vehicle last another 100,000 miles, this episode reminds us that good diagnostics—and good maintenance—never go out of style.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor -July 25, 2026 - Hour 1 

Sometimes the hardest repair is the one you refuse to make.

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron shares the story of a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee with inoperative air conditioning that raises a much bigger question than a failed relay. When the factory repair requires replacing a $1,000 power distribution center, why not simply wire in a new relay? The answer comes down to professional responsibility, liability, and understanding the difference between repairing a vehicle and redesigning it.

Ron also helps parents navigate the pros and cons of leasing a first vehicle for a brand-new driver, offers advice on tracking down a mysterious drivetrain vibration in a Dodge Charger, revisits dealership parts pricing and customer loyalty, and explains how to restore an obsolete GM door latch when replacement parts no longer exist.

Whether you're a professional technician or someone who simply wants repairs done the right way, this episode is a reminder that every decision under the hood carries consequences—and the best repair is always the one you can confidently explain to your customer... or to a judge.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - July 18, 2026

Is your Ford or GM 10-speed transmission shifting hard, flaring between gears, or acting unpredictably? Ron explains why these transmissions commonly develop problems, what should be checked before replacing a transmission, and why software updates, fluid condition, and valve body issues can all play a role.

Ron also answers questions about a high-mileage Acura RDX transmission, discusses whether it's smarter to repair or replace an older vehicle, explains what "Top Tier" gasoline really means and whether it's worth the extra money, and shares why preventative maintenance is still the least expensive repair you'll ever buy.

Plus, listener calls on diesel trucks, transmission diagnostics, and keeping high-mileage vehicles on the road—because good mechanics aren't expensive... they're priceless.

Car Advice, Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - July 18, 2026 

A simple check engine light on a high-mileage 2016 Chevy Silverado Duramax turns into a lesson in why experience matters. Ron shares the tense, hour-long battle to safely remove a seized glow plug without turning an $800 repair into an $18,000 engine replacement—and explains why the best technicians know when to slow down.

Also this week, Ron talks with a Honda owner wondering if a dealership's $3,300 repair recommendation is really necessary, helps diagnose a no-crank Cadillac CTS, discusses Harley-Davidson starting issues, and explains why sometimes the most valuable tool in the shop isn't a scan tool or a socket set—it's decades of experience.

It's another hour of Car Advice, Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - July 11, 2026 

Ron answers a wide range of listener questions that all come back to one idea: smart maintenance pays off. From choosing the right spark plugs for a classic '69 Chevy Nova to synthetic oil change intervals, reviving a stored Honda CR-V, and whether to disable auto stop/start on a late-model Acura, the focus is on making vehicles last longer.

Plus, Ron explains why diesel fuel additives can be a worthwhile investment for owners of today's modern diesel trucks.

Car Advice, Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - July 11, 2026

The Perfect Storm of Auto Repair

A simple A/C complaint on a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee quickly turns into a lesson on why repair estimates are only educated guesses. Ron explains how one failed component can uncover several more—and why proper diagnostics always come before replacing parts.

Also this week, Ron helps a listener solve a persistent EVAP system fault on a Kia Soul, explains why testing beats guessing every time, and answers questions about suspension noises and airbag warning lights.

Real diagnostics. Real repairs. Car Advice, Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - July 4, 2026 

Don't Let the Little Things Ruin Your Trip

Before you head out for your next road trip, Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, has one simple question: Do you know where your wheel lock key is? It sounds like a small detail—until a flat tire leaves you stranded hundreds of miles from home. Ron shares a real-world story that proves the little things can quickly become big problems when you're on the road.

Also this week, Ron helps a listener choose between Ford's 2.7L EcoBoost and the legendary 5.0L V8, works through no-start problems on both a classic Mazda pickup and a Nissan Titan, catches up with Wall Stadium racer Quinn Trimmer for a mid-season racing update, and answers a listener's question about costly oil leaks on an aging Subaru.

Whether you're traveling across town or across the country, a little preparation—and a little automotive knowledge—can save you time, money, and a whole lot of aggravation.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - July 4, 2026 

Can a husband and wife experience the exact same car problem and remember it completely differently? This week on The Car Doctor, Ron Ananian explains why the most valuable diagnostic tool in his shop isn't a scan tool, lab scope, or smoke machine—it's the chair in front of the service counter. After listening to a couple describe an intermittent stalling problem from two very different perspectives, Ron discovers that the missing clue wasn't under the hood at all. It was hidden in their story.

Also this week, Ron helps a listener decide whether to restore a beloved 7.3L Ford Power Stroke with over 300,000 miles or move on to a newer truck, tackles a mysterious engine failure after questionable fuel finds its way into a late-model Silverado, explains an unusual Toyota Camry touchscreen problem, and answers a mailbag question about a Honda Accord that began overheating after collision repairs.

Sometimes the best repair starts with a conversation.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor -June 27, 2026 

A late-model Ford Edge had everyone stumped. Multiple repair shops, multiple replacement parts, no check engine light, and no diagnostic trouble codes—yet it still refused to start.

Ron explains why the best diagnostics begin before the engine is ever cranked, using live scan tool data like coolant temperature, ambient air temperature, battery voltage, fuel pressure, and barometric pressure to verify what the PCM believes is happening. It's a lesson in real-world troubleshooting that every technician—and every vehicle owner—can appreciate.

Also this hour:

As Ron reminds listeners:

"Tell me what's good... and I'll tell you what's bad."

 

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - June 27, 2026

This week Ron explains why great technicians don't start by replacing parts—they start by proving what's actually wrong.

A stubborn Honda Accord air conditioning problem, a Ford Edge with two unrelated faults, and a discussion of real-world diagnostic strategy all reinforce one lesson: understanding how a system works will always beat guessing.

Also this hour:

As Ron says:

"The challenge isn't how many parts you can replace. It's how many parts you can NOT replace and still fix the vehicle."

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A Car Dr. Classic repeat from February of 2026. Ron and the crew 

are off this weekend to celebrate Father's Day and get a little family

maintenance time. Enjoy!

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A second hour Car Dr. Classic repeat from February of 2026. Ron and the crew 

are off this weekend to celebrate Father's Day and get a little family

maintenance time. Enjoy!

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - June 13, 2026 

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, a listener preparing to fulfill a lifelong dream of traveling historic Route 66 sparks a conversation about America's automotive past, the roads that built the country, and the memories that still live along the Mother Road.

Ron shares stories about the history of Route 66, the rise of the Interstate Highway System, classic television, small-town America, and why some of the best automotive adventures happen when you slow down and take the long way there. From Burma Shave signs to roadside garages and forgotten towns, it's a reminder that cars have always been about more than transportation.

Also this hour:

Whether you're planning a Route 66 adventure, maintaining a modern vehicle, or simply remembering the days when cars were simpler, this episode is a reminder that every road has a story.

Car Advice Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - June 13, 2026 

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, a repair story that refuses to go away comes full circle.

Ron revisits the now-famous $16,000 Chevy Tahoe transmission repair, the real-world case that sparked conversations about whether it's better to repair the vehicle you own or start over with another unknown used car. But the story takes an unexpected turn when a chance encounter with a listener reveals that sometimes the lessons behind the repair matter more than the repair itself.

Along the way, Ron shares a behind-the-scenes look at spotting his own podcast billboard near MetLife Stadium, a morning cruise in his black '55 Chevy, and a reminder that maintaining a vehicle is often about more than saving money—it's about understanding value.

Also this hour:

Sometimes the biggest automotive lessons aren't found in the repair bay—they're found in the conversations that happen because of it.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - June 6, 2026 

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron shares the story of a 2021 Chevy Suburban that suddenly became a no-start vehicle four months after being repaired from an accident. What appeared to be a simple breakdown turned into a lesson in modern diagnostics, networked vehicle systems, and why today's cars can develop problems long after the original event that caused them.

Ron explains how fault codes don't necessarily tell you what's broken, only where the computers became confused, and why understanding a vehicle's history is often the key to finding the real answer. The repair ultimately led to a failing transmission control module, programming challenges, and a reminder that successful diagnostics is as much detective work as it is automotive repair.

Also this hour, Ron discusses whether it's worth repairing a high-mileage Toyota Highlander with a failed transmission, helps a Hyundai Tucson owner navigate the well-known engine failure warranty issues, and answers an email about what maintenance should be performed immediately after purchasing a used vehicle with unknown service history.

Car Advice Done Right

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - June 6, 2026 

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron takes a closer look at a growing trend across America: drivers are keeping their vehicles longer than ever. With new car prices climbing, repair costs rising, and monthly payments pushing record levels, many motorists are choosing to invest in the vehicles they already own rather than replace them.

Ron explains why a cheap oil change may actually cost more in the long run, how regular maintenance has become the key to long-term vehicle ownership, and why today's cars require a different approach than the vehicles of years past. He also shares real-world shop stories, including a battery failure discovered during a routine service visit and a roadside repair adventure involving a high-mileage Toyota Corolla that proves preparation still matters.

Plus, Ron helps a caller diagnose a stubborn brake pedal problem on a Chevy Silverado, discusses the pros and cons of buying a low-mileage Chevy Equinox, and highlights an unusual no-start condition on a Jeep Grand Cherokee caused by something as simple as a windshield tint installation.

If you're wondering whether to repair, replace, or simply maintain the vehicle in your driveway, this episode offers practical advice from the service bay and a realistic look at the true cost of car ownership today.

Car Advice Done Right

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This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron takes a closer look at how modern vehicles have changed—and why maintaining them requires a different mindset than ever before. From oil changes and coolant service to battery health and proper diagnostics, Ron explains why today's vehicles are more dependent on preventive maintenance than the cars of the past. He also discusses the different approaches drivers take when leasing, owning long-term, or keeping an older vehicle on the road, and why understanding your maintenance strategy can save thousands of dollars over the life of a car.

Later, Ron talks with longtime listener Micah about automotive air conditioning systems, refrigerant loss, A/C performance, and why periodic service can help keep modern climate control systems operating at peak efficiency.

In the second half of the hour, Ron welcomes Quinn Trimmer of Trimmer Motorsports. Quinn shares his journey from quarter midgets to Sportsman Modified racing at Wall Stadium Speedway, discusses racing at speeds approaching 110 MPH on a one-third-mile oval, and explains the teamwork, discipline, and mechanical knowledge required to compete successfully in grassroots motorsports.

It's an hour of practical car care advice, real-world diagnostics, and a look inside the world of local stock car racing.

Car Advice Done Right.

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This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron takes a closer look at one of the biggest questions facing drivers today: What does it really cost to own a vehicle? Inspired by listener reaction to last week's discussion of a $16,000 transmission replacement, Ron explores the difficult decisions vehicle owners face when major repairs collide with rising new-car prices, extended warranties, and long-term ownership plans.

Along the way, Ron explains why proper diagnosis matters more than ever, using a real-world air conditioning repair story to highlight the difference between simply adding refrigerant and actually finding the root cause of a problem. He also discusses the growing complexity of modern vehicles, the rising cost of repair equipment and technology, and why choosing the right repair shop has become just as important as choosing the right vehicle.

Ron then helps listeners solve a variety of automotive issues, including a Chevrolet Silverado with an ignition key that won't release, questions about GM's Active Fuel Management system and whether it's worth deleting, and advice for a listener considering a new vehicle purchase.

If you've ever wondered whether to repair, replace, or keep driving what you have, this episode is for you.

Car Advice Done Right.

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This Memorial Day weekend on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron mixes humor, heart, and history in a powerful hour about the way cars become part of our everyday lives. It starts with a noisy Honda CR-V carrying landscaping rocks under a loose splash shield — and turns into a story about marriage, memories, and why vehicles become so personal to all of us.

Ron talks about the strange relationship people have with their cars, the conversations that happen at the repair counter, and why sometimes mechanics become part technician, part therapist, and part referee.

Plus:

It’s an unforgettable hour about cars, family, freedom, and the people who keep all of us moving forward.

Car Advice Done Right.

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This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens the hour with a story that perfectly captures the reality of modern car ownership — a 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with just 105,000 miles facing a shocking $16,000 transmission replacement estimate. After visits to two dealerships and completely different repair recommendations, the customer turns to Ron with the question every driver eventually asks: What would you do?

Ron dives into the growing fear and confusion surrounding today’s vehicles, where advanced technology, expensive repairs, and overwhelming repair estimates are changing the psychology of car ownership. Are consumers paying for repairs — or paying for risk management? And in a world of 10-speed transmissions, software-controlled drivetrains, and increasingly complex systems, who can drivers really trust?

Plus, listener calls on:

It’s a conversation about repair costs, trust, modern technology, and the difficult financial decisions drivers face every day.

Car Advice Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctortakes on one of the most debated topics in automotive maintenance this week: oil change intervals. After an Instagram post sparked a flood of listener questions, Ron breaks down why modern engines are harder on oil than ever before—and why the “one-size-fits-all” oil change recommendation no longer works. From turbochargers and direct injection to short-trip driving and long-term vehicle ownership, Ron explains how driving habits, maintenance philosophy, and engine design all affect oil life and long-term reliability.

Then, Ron welcomes Aaron Shaffer of Standard Motor Products for an inside look at modern fuel injectors. Learn how injectors are manufactured, why spray pattern precision matters, what causes injectors to fail, and why replacing just one injector may not always solve the problem. It’s a fascinating conversation about the technology quietly powering every modern engine on the road today.

Car Advice Done Right.

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This weekend on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron talks Memorial Day travel, record numbers of drivers hitting the road, and why fuel economy is about more than just the price at the pump. From tire pressure and fuel system cleaning to overlooked maintenance that quietly wastes gas, Ron explains the simple things drivers can do right now to save fuel, avoid breakdowns, and make summer driving safer. Plus, advice on wiper blades, cooling systems, emergency road gear, and why the best defense on a busy holiday weekend is a good offense when it comes to vehicle maintenance.

Then, in the second half of the hour, Ron welcomes Benjamin Ciesielski from CRC Industries for a conversation focused on electrical connection maintenance and why clean battery terminals and electrical connectors matter more than most drivers realize. They discuss corrosion, voltage drop, intermittent electrical problems, proper cleaning techniques, and the specialty cleaners and protectants used in today’s repair shops to keep modern vehicle electronics operating reliably. It’s a practical look at one of the most overlooked maintenance areas on today’s cars and trucks.

Practical car care, real-world repair insight, and conversations that help drivers better understand the machines they depend on every day.

Car Advice Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, opens the hour continuing the conversation about fuel economy and why modern vehicles can lose efficiency long before a check engine light ever comes on. With Memorial Day and summer travel season approaching, Ron explains how issues with fuel trims, EVAP monitors, thermostats, wheel speed sensors, batteries, and basic maintenance can quietly affect fuel mileage and vehicle reliability. He also reminds listeners why now is the time to inspect tire pressure, batteries, fluid levels, and wiper blades before getting stranded roadside during holiday travel.

Later in the hour, Ron helps a Toyota Tacoma owner work through an intermittent misfire problem by explaining how modern computers actually detect misfires and why live scan tool data is critical for proper diagnosis. Another caller describes a rough-running Chevy Sonic with a long-ignored check engine light, leading to a conversation about how vehicles adapt around existing faults and why delayed repairs can create additional hidden problems. Ron also helps a repair shop owner diagnose a difficult Chevy Traverse no-start condition involving CAN bus communication faults, module diagnostics, and theft deterrent issues in modern vehicles.

Ron wraps up the hour with a warning about a General Motors brake fluid recall involving certain AC Delco DOT 3 brake fluid products and reminds listeners to check affected part numbers before summer driving season gets underway.

Car Advice Done Right.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, starts the hour talking about rising fuel prices and why the real problem for most drivers may actually be fuel waste caused by overlooked maintenance issues. Ron explains how low tire pressure, dragging brakes, dirty air filters, weak batteries, and lazy oxygen sensors slowly rob vehicles of fuel economy long before a warning light ever appears on the dashboard. He also revisits the old-school “clothespin on the fuel line” trick and explains the vapor lock theory behind it.

Later in the hour, Ron talks with a listener considering the purchase of a late-model Chevy Suburban Duramax with a branded title and discusses the risks involved when buying a vehicle with a complicated repair history. Another caller reports back on a difficult Nissan Murano misfire diagnosis that ultimately turned out to be three failed ignition coils on the same bank of the engine — a repair almost nobody would expect. Ron also helps a longtime Ford Escape owner decide what modern SUV might replace his trusted 235,000-mile daily driver.

It’s another hour of practical diagnostics, real-world repair stories, and common-sense automotive insight from Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor.

Car Advice Done Right.

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In today’s vehicles, fixing the car isn’t just about turning wrenches—it’s about having the right information at the right time. In this hour of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron sits down with Ross Whiteley of Mitchell 1 to explore how modern repair information systems are shaping the future of automotive diagnostics and service.

From factory procedures and wiring diagrams to technical service bulletins and real-world fixes, this conversation dives into where repair data comes from, how often it changes, and why even the most experienced technician needs to rely on accurate, up-to-date information.

If you’ve ever wondered why some problems are harder to diagnose than others—or why your repair shop spends time researching before picking up a tool—this episode explains it all.

Whether you’re a consumer, a DIYer, or a professional tech, you’ll walk away understanding why in today’s world, information isn’t just power—it’s the repair.

Car Advice. Done Right.

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Advanced Driver Assistance Systems—better known as ADAS—are changing the way we drive, repair, and think about our vehicles. This hour of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor takes a deep dive into what ADAS really is, how it works, and why it matters more than ever.

Joined by Steve Dawson of Hunter Engineering, Ron breaks down everything from lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control to the critical importance of proper calibration after even the simplest repair.

If you’re a consumer, you’ll learn why that windshield replacement or minor fender bender could directly impact your vehicle’s safety systems. For the DIYer and professional technician, this conversation highlights the specialized tools, procedures, and training now required to service today’s increasingly complex vehicles.

Whether you’re behind the wheel or under the hood, understanding ADAS isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential.

Car Advice. Done Right.

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The Cost of Not Knowing Your Car

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron talks about the hidden cost of vehicle ownership: not knowing what your car is trying to tell you.

From a Volkswagen A/C diagnosis to a Toyota ignition coil problem with no warning light, Ron explains why small symptoms matter and why good diagnosis beats guesswork.

Plus, calls on a Toyota Tercel, GMC Envoy brakes, OBD readers, and a costly Volkswagen steering lock problem.

Car Advice. Done Right.

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Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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Why You Don’t Trust the Repair Shop — and Maybe You Should

This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron talks about why so many drivers fear the repair shop — and how to find one you can actually trust.

From diagnostic charges and scan tools to choosing consistency over convenience, Ron explains why today’s cars require training, time, and communication. Plus, calls on a Toyota Tacoma thermostat, Ford EcoBoost repairs, Chevy Trax noises, transmission service, and a Chrysler Pacifica steering safety issue.

Car Advice. Done Right.

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Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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In Hour 2 of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron talks Hyundai engine problems and oil consumption with a caller from Canada dealing with a possible scored-cylinder issue on a 2020 Hyundai Veloster, and explains why calling Hyundai corporate may be the next step. He also helps a listener weigh the hard decision of repairing or replacing a 2011 Chevy Cruze that has been sitting for years with what may be a transmission failure.

Later, Ron takes on the John Deere Right to Repair story and why it matters far beyond tractors—covering repair access, scan tools, software control, dealership bottlenecks, and whether you really own something if you can’t fix it. Plus, advice for an ’84 Chevy C10 with a 454 and Holley carb, and a closing commentary on why critical thinking still matters in diagnostics and repair.

Car advice, done right.

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Ron Ananian opens Hour 1 of The Car Doctor with the now-famous shop swear jar story and what it says about repair shop culture, professionalism, and doing things the right way. Plus: converting the factory A/C on a 1972 Chevrolet Chevelle, a listener story about a 1967 Rambler overheating from sand left in the engine block, scan tool advice for a Mercedes diesel Sprinter, and a real-world repair lesson from a 2019 Ford Escape where one shortcut created a much bigger problem. Classic cars, diagnostics, shop stories, and practical car advice—Car Advice, Done Right.

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We dug a little deeper into the archives and found the first hour of a live broadcast from the April 2006 New York Auto Show.

In this episode, we’re right on the show floor at the New York International Auto Show, talking with the show chairman and key organizers about what it takes to bring an event like this to life—how it started, how it grew, and what it meant to the auto industry at the time.

But what really makes this a must-listen is the perspective.

You’ll hear conversations about what were then cutting-edge vehicles in 2006—cars that represented the future of automotive technology, design, and innovation. Looking back now, it’s fascinating to see what stuck, what evolved… and what never quite made it.

The audio is exactly what you’d expect from a live broadcast on the floor of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center—a little noisy, a little raw, and completely authentic.

It’s more than just a show—it’s a snapshot of an industry in motion.

If you love cars, history, or just want to see how far we’ve come… this is one you don’t want to miss.

Car advice, done right.

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This is a rare find.

We recently uncovered a live broadcast of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor from the New York International Auto Show at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, recorded back in April of 2006. This is the second hour of the show that day.

It’s a true time capsule—a look at what the automotive industry was, what we thought was cutting-edge, and how far we’ve come since. From the vehicles on display to the conversations happening on the show floor, you’ll hear the early stages of trends that shaped today’s cars.

Keep in mind, this is a live broadcast from the show floor, so the audio reflects the energy and noise of a real working event. It’s not studio-perfect—but that’s part of the charm. 

Take a listen, step back in time, and enjoy the ride.

Car advice, done right.

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When a Simple Repair Isn’t Simple: Chevy Cruze Breakdown, Subaru No-Start & Modern Car Diagnostics

Today on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, a routine oil change on a Chevy Cruze turns into a full-scale repair story—serpentine belt failure leads to a bad tensioner, worn alternator, water pump issues, and eventually a radiator and A/C repair. It’s a real-world look at how small problems on older vehicles can snowball fast—and why trusting your mechanic matters.

Ron also takes a call on a 2019 Subaru Outback with an intermittent no-start tied to a faulty key fob and immobilizer system, highlighting the importance of full vehicle scans and proper diagnostics in today’s high-tech cars.

Plus: stop-start system discussions, Silverado settings insights, transmission service advice for older vehicles, fuel system cleaning tips, and thoughts on how modern vehicles are moving toward self-diagnosing and self-calibrating technology.

Car advice, done right.

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DIY Brake Repair Meets Modern Cars: Electronic Parking Brakes, Scan Tools, Ford Ranger Lights & Dodge 600 Questions

Today on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens the hour with a real-world shop story that says everything about where auto repair is headed: what should have been a simple late-model Chevy brake job turned into a scan tool, software update, and electronic parking brake battle just to put the car in service mode. It’s a sharp look at why modern brake repair, DIY car maintenance, and even basic shop work now depend as much on software and subscriptions as wrenches and know-how.

Ron also takes calls on manual transmission fluid choices for a 2003 GMC Sierra, intermittent headlight failure and cruise control issues on a 1994 Ford Ranger, spark plug and maintenance advice for a low-mile 1986 Dodge 600 convertible, and a step-by-step discussion on how to bleed brake fluid properly. If you’ve ever wondered why car repair costs are rising, why late-model vehicles are harder to fix at home, or where today’s automotive technology is taking independent repair shops and DIYers, this hour lays it out.

Car advice, done right.

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Hour 2 of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor is for the Weekend Wrenchers—the driveway DIYers, toolbox in hand, trying to save money and keep their vehicles going in a world where cars are getting more complicated by the minute.

Ron opens with a look at how today’s technology is changing the do-it-yourself repair game. Oil changes, filters, fluids, and some brake work may still be within reach, but more and more repairs now require scan tools, service mode procedures, and a level of information that can stop even a capable DIYer in his tracks. A real-world story about a late-model GM brake job shows exactly where the line is between determination and frustration.

Calls this hour include advice on waking up a low-mileage 2018 Toyota RAV4 that sat for months, including fluids, battery, tires, and maintenance priorities before putting it back into regular service; help for a Chrysler van with a fuel smell and intermittent stutter that may involve more than one issue; a discussion of a 2010 Ford with a rough idle and scan data questions; and thoughts on where the DIYer fits as manufacturers keep adding layers of electronics and complexity.

It’s a practical hour about what you can still do in the driveway, where modern cars push back, and why knowing your limits is sometimes the smartest repair of all.

Car advice, done right—then and now.

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On this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron starts the show reflecting on the wonder of space travel, the technology behind the return to the moon, and how innovation from the space program still shapes our everyday lives—including the cars we drive.

From there, the conversation comes back down to earth with a question many drivers are facing right now: when is it worth fixing the car you have, and when is it time to move on? Ron shares a real-world shop story about a 2014 Chevy Equinox that looked like it might be at the end of the road, only to prove that the right diagnosis can make all the difference between a manageable repair bill and a costly new car payment.

Calls this week include a 2003 Ford Explorer with repeated timing chain failures, advice for getting the longest life out of a newer turbocharged Ford F-150, a look at why Chrysler’s struggles reflect a bigger disconnect in the auto industry, and help for a listener with a high-mileage Ford Escape battling an ongoing coolant leak and tough repair decisions.

It’s a thoughtful, practical hour about repair versus replace, maintenance versus monthly payments, and why the smartest car you may own could be the one already sitting in your driveway.

Car advice, done right—then and now.

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Ron opens the phones and takes on a wide mix of car questions, including a Chevy Spark with radio static after a car wash, the real cost of diagnosis, and the growing frustration of modern vehicle ownership. He also talks about oil catch cans, auto stop-start systems, and why some newer features may create more annoyance than value. Along the way, listeners share memories of old-school gas stations, a 1938 Chevy, and classic Volkswagens, making this episode a mix of practical advice, perspective, and great car talk.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel

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What used to be a simple repair isn’t so simple anymore.

This week, Ron takes you inside the shop for two real-world stories that highlight how fast the automotive repair industry is changing. It starts with a basic freeze-out plug—once a common, inexpensive fix—that has now become nearly impossible to source through traditional channels. What used to be a three-dollar repair can quickly turn into a five-thousand-dollar engine replacement simply because parts—and sometimes the skill sets—are disappearing.

Then, Ron walks through a late-model diagnostic challenge where multiple scan tools give conflicting answers, raising a bigger question: how do you know when a vehicle is truly fixed?

From obsolete parts to evolving technology, this episode explains why today’s repair shops rely on multiple tools, deeper knowledge, and factory-level diagnostics just to keep up.

It’s a revealing look at an industry that never stands still—and why, now more than ever, car repair is a moving target.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Ron welcomes Tim McDonnell from Mitchell 1 to discuss the latest updates and improvements to Mitchell’s repair and shop management software. They talk about how modern repair information systems are evolving to help shops work smarter, document repairs better, and keep up with the increasing complexity of today’s vehicles.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel

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Ron opens the hour with a shop story that turned into a real-world lesson about parts quality, roadside danger, and why “close enough” no longer cuts it in automotive repair. What started as a simple freeze plug replacement on a 1990 Chevy van ended with a late-night breakdown on one of North Jersey’s most unforgiving roads — a reminder that bad parts and bad luck can quickly become something much more serious.

From there, Ron takes calls on battery drain diagnosis, premium fuel-system service, extended warranties, and rustproofing a new truck in harsh winter climates. Along the way, he makes the case that in today’s world of rising repair costs and expensive replacement vehicles, smart maintenance matters more than ever.

Plus, Ron shares highlights from the Northeast Trade Show, including standout products from Gloveworks and Grip Edge, and previews the upcoming conversation with Deputy Frank Sloup of the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron sits down with Deputy Frank Sloup—better known to millions online through his popular YouTube channel Fridays With Frank and his insightful BodyCam Breakdown series.

Deputy Sloup brings real-world experience from the front lines of law enforcement, breaking down what actually happens during traffic stops, roadside encounters, and everyday driving situations. Through his unique perspective, he helps drivers better understand how their actions behind the wheel can impact safety—for themselves, their passengers, and everyone else on the road.

In this conversation, we go beyond the viral videos to talk about driver awareness, decision-making under pressure, and the simple habits that can prevent accidents and save lives. It’s an eye-opening look at driving from the other side of the badge—practical, honest, and packed with takeaways every driver can use.

If you’ve ever watched Fridays With Frank or BodyCam Breakdown, this is your chance to hear the stories and lessons behind the scenes—and apply them every time you get behind the wheel.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel

Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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This hour on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens with a funny but all-too-real look at the strange little things that can disrupt the flow of a repair shop, including a months-long search for the right paper shredder and the everyday distractions that make shop life more complicated than most people realize. It’s a reminder that fixing cars is only part of the job—staying focused through the chaos is the other half.

Ron also answers listener questions on a wide range of issues, including scan tool recommendations for an aging Jeep Grand Cherokee, how to approach a cylinder misfire without guessing, first oil change timing on a new 2025 Honda Civic Type R, and the importance of using the correct oil specification and a quality filter for long engine life. There’s also a good step-by-step discussion on parasitic battery draw testing for a Ford Fusion, plus a closing reflection on why older muscle cars still leave such a lasting impression.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron shares a shop story about a frustrating Chrysler 200C repair that turns into a bigger lesson: sometimes the smartest move is knowing when a car may not be worth fixing.

Ron also tackles questions about modern engine oil viscosity and why sticking with manufacturer specifications — along with shorter oil change intervals and quality filters — is still the best strategy for long engine life.

Plus, real-world diagnostics on a high-mileage Honda Civic with strange fuel trim readings, cooling system advice for a Chrysler Sebring, and a preview of next week’s conversation with Deputy Frank Sloup of the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office on traffic safety and smarter driving habits.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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On this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens the show with a story from the service bay about a recent repair and an important lesson for both technicians and vehicle owners: a good repair means looking at everything related to the problem — not just the obvious failure. From related components to the bigger picture of how the vehicle operates, Ron explains why careful diagnosis and thorough thinking are what turn a basic repair into a complete and reliable fix.

Later in the hour, Ron welcomes Tim McDonnell from Mitchell 1 to discuss the latest updates and improvements to Mitchell’s repair and shop management software. They talk about how modern repair information systems are evolving to help shops work smarter, document repairs better, and keep up with the increasing complexity of today’s vehicles.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into doing a repair the right way, or how professional shops manage information and workflow behind the scenes, this hour gives you a look inside the modern service bay.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel

Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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On this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron sits down with Ken Miller, President of Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP-NJ) and owner of 821 Collision, for an important conversation about diminished value — the loss in a vehicle’s market value after it has been involved in an accident.

Even when a vehicle is repaired properly, it may still be worth less simply because it now has an accident history. Ron and Ken explain what diminished value means, how insurance companies handle it, and what steps vehicle owners can take to pursue proper reimbursement.

They also discuss the upcoming Northeast Automotive Services Show, the largest regional auto body and mechanical trade show in the country, held each year in New Jersey. The event brings together technicians, shop owners, manufacturers, and industry leaders for training, new technology, and a look at the future of automotive repair.

If you’ve ever wondered how accidents affect your vehicle’s true value — or how the repair industry is evolving — this conversation offers valuable insight from the people who deal with it every day.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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What’s the most expensive number in car ownership?

It’s not the sticker price.
It’s not the monthly payment.
It’s not even the repair bill.

This week, Ron explains the number almost no one calculates until it’s too late — cost per mile — and why modern vehicles demand a different mindset than they did even ten years ago.

Inside this episode:

Why today’s cars feel more like rolling computers than mechanical machines

A real shop conversation about when a vehicle may need $5,000 in upcoming repairs — and how to decide if it’s worth it

Why automotive ownership can’t be emotional

The growing debate around start-stop technology and long-term engine wear

A Subaru recall warning involving potential fuel leakage and fire risk

Being a good mechanic today sometimes means being a fortune teller — helping drivers see what’s coming before it becomes expensive.

Because in the end, the smartest car owners aren’t reacting to repairs.
They’re planning for them.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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This episode starts with a question every driver dreads:
If your engine is losing coolant—but there’s no leak—why is the warranty company asking you to tear it down to “prove it”?

Ron revisits last week’s Ford Escape case and reads an email from respected engine builder Brian Sheeron—who calls the teardown demand what it often is: a path to denial, not a path to repair.

Then the show takes a hard left into another hidden cost for drivers: New York City stations where motorists may be paying premium prices and getting lower octane fuel. If your car requires premium, that’s not a small mistake—it's a long-term risk.

Plus, you’ll hear:

Why “engine machine shop deserts” are real—and why rebuild culture is fading

The modern reality: tear-down vs. replace (and why the math often favors replacement)

A rural mail carrier’s fleet of Buick Centuries and what harsh shifting can reveal about transmission wear and “learned” behavior

A great old-school mechanic call that reminds you what this trade used to be—and still can be

The parts warning nobody wants to hear: counterfeit parts are out there, even in “real” boxes

Ron’s own snowplow breakdown—and a simple electrical lesson: a 15-amp fuse living at 13 amps won’t live long

The cheapest protection that still matters most: oil changes on time, especially for short-trip drivers

This is the real cost of ownership—warranties, fuel, parts, and maintenance—where the small stuff becomes the expensive stuff.

Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel

Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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It’s a busy hour on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor—and the calls cover everything from safety to big-dollar decisions.

First, Frank calls about a 2015 Chevy Suburban with an intermittent hard brake pedal. Ron points to a known GM issue involving the engine-driven vacuum pump and brake booster contamination, and explains the smart first test to confirm it.

Next, Stan’s 2019 Ford Escape 1.5L is losing coolant with no visible external leak, raising concerns about internal engine issues and the frustrations of dealing with extended warranty “script readers.” Ron lays out a logical path: prove what it’s not, document what it is, and push for coverage.

Then, a 2021 Jeep Wrangler owner reports cold hard shifts into 3rd/4th—Ron suggests checking for pending codes, software updates, and relevant service bulletins before damage gets worse.

Finally, James asks what to look for as his son buys his first vehicle: a 2009 Chevy Silverado with 163k miles. Ron gives the real-world checklist—rust, maintenance history, fluids, overall condition, and budgeting for what happens if the drivetrain quits.

As always: don’t assume—test, verify, and make decisions with your eyes open.

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This week, Ron shares a real shop story that every car owner needs to hear — a 16-year-old Toyota with warning lights, rust, exhaust issues, worn tires, and a growing repair list. What starts as a simple check-engine diagnosis quickly turns into a bigger conversation: at what point does fixing the car stop making sense?

Ron walks listeners through the behind-the-scenes thought process mechanics go through every day — balancing safety, cost, reliability, and honesty — and explains why sometimes the best advice isn’t another repair… it’s replacing the vehicle.

Plus, a caller with a lifetime-warranty Dodge Ram faces recurring misfires and confusing dealership diagnostics, sparking an important discussion about compression testing, modern engines, extended warranties, and why basic testing still matters.

The takeaway? Find a mechanic you trust, ask questions, and remember — a good shop doesn’t just fix cars. They help guide life decisions that roll in on four wheels.

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On this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron kicks things off with a shout-out to Coach Keith at CrossFit Bison — baseball season is coming, pitchers and catchers have reported, and yes… Ron might be running again. Then it’s right into real-world auto repair with a mix of laughs, shop logic, and listener follow-ups that close the loop.

Matt calls in with an ’01 Chevy Venture where the cooling fans will run when jumped — but won’t come on under normal operation. Ron explains why this may not be a bad fan or relay at all, but a control/strategy issue involving the BCM and load-shed management — the kind of problem you solve with testing, not guessing.

Bruce in Utah shares the win of the week: a pristine ’78 Mercury Marquis that hadn’t been started in 40 years… brought back to life and now turning heads everywhere it goes. Ron talks about the satisfaction of keeping older, repairable vehicles alive — and why we’re all just caretakers of the classics.

Plus, Chris reports back on a Chrysler Pacifica cold-start nightmare that ended up being start/stop battery related — proving again that modern vehicles can mean two batteries and big repair bills if you don’t know what you’re dealing with. And Steven closes the loop on a 2023 F-150 catalytic converter issue that didn’t qualify for a recall — but did get handled under warranty.

Ron wraps with updates on parts supply issues, why start/stop may be headed for a rethink, and a reminder that the best repair relationship is built on trust, proper maintenance, and doing things the right way.

The mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.

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Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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On this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens with a hard truth: auto repair isn’t about cheap — it’s about correct.

After a caller questions a $500 brake job, Ron explains why doing brakes the right way matters, how labor rates really work, and why confidence in your mechanic is just as important as confidence in your car.

Then comes every technician’s worst nightmare — a wheel falling off a customer’s Toyota after dealership service. Ron walks listeners through what happened, why this kind of mistake can be deadly, and why the real story is how the dealer stepped up, owned it, and made things right — the true measure of a repair shop.

Plus, Ron helps Greg in Wisconsin chase down a complicated Nissan misfire, covering real-world diagnostics like vacuum testing, timing chain concerns, coolant intrusion, and scan tool strategy.

The hour wraps with advice on GM truck maintenance, oil choices, transmission servicing, and why waiting too long between oil changes can quietly shorten your vehicle’s life.

It’s an honest, inside-the-shop look at what separates parts swapping from professional diagnostics — and why the cheapest repair often ends up being the most expensive.

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This hour, Ron opens with a hard number—$26.2 billion—and what it says about the EV business model, vehicle pricing, and why consumers may be the ones ultimately paying the tab. He breaks down what’s happening in the market, why automakers are reassessing EV strategy, and what it could mean for the cost of buying and owning a car.

Then it’s back to real-world problems listeners are facing today:

A rust-belt truck with tire wear and frozen alignment cams—when does it make sense to repair, and when is it time to start shopping?

A swollen battery case and what it can signal about charging issues and battery life.

A hot-start stumble on a ’99 Acura TL—Ron walks through practical diagnostics (fuel volume, deadhead pressure testing, and heat-soak sensor checks).

A Hyundai Tucson burning oil at an alarming rate—how to push for help, what documentation matters, and why technical bulletins exist for a reason.

A 2016 Tahoe running 195° transmission temps because of a factory thermal bypass—Ron explains the risks, the logic (or lack of it), and why a middle-ground thermostat solution may make sense.

Plus: the latest fallout from the First Brands situation and how parts availability—calipers, wipers, and more—can create real holes in the supply chain that affect every repair bay in America.

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This hour, Ron opens with a shop story that starts small and snowballs fast—one chewed vacuum hose on his ’72 Monte Carlo turns into a full dash teardown, heater core drama, brittle plastic parts, and the reality of sourcing quality components for classic cars.

Then it’s on to calls and straight talk: a 2025 Ford Maverick owner worried about oil consumption and a dealer that won’t document concerns, plus a Toyota Corolla owner questioning “universal” synthetic transmission fluid versus manufacturer-spec Type T-IV. Ron explains why documentation matters, how oil consumption can become a long-term emissions/catalyst problem, and why “one fluid fits all” can be a risky gamble.

Also: a listener asks about smartphone alignment tools, and Ron gives a reality check on why phones can’t replace professional alignment equipment—especially on modern vehicles with ADAS.

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Cold weather exposes weak links in today’s vehicles, and this hour of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor breaks them down. Ron explains why modern car batteries should be replaced every 4–5 years—even if they still test good—and why where you buy a battery matters as much as the warranty.

He also dives into start-stop systems and CVT transmissions, explaining how they work, why oil and fluid maintenance is more critical than ever, and what drivers should realistically expect for longevity.

Plus, real-world winter diagnostics, including a no-heat-at-idle problem, air-bound cooling systems, and how to diagnose issues step-by-step without guessing. Practical advice, shop-floor experience, and straight talk for anyone keeping a car past the warranty.

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This week, Ron breaks down a story you won’t notice until your car is on the lift: the First Brands Group Chapter 11 bankruptcy and the wind-down of major North American units—impacting familiar names like Autolite and Cardone. Ron explains what this means for parts availability, backorders, rising repair costs, and why “instant gratification” is disappearing from auto repair. Then it’s on to calls: a tire-wear mystery on a Jeep in Maine, plus a Wisconsin listener with a new Chevrolet Silverado asking how to protect a truck that tows hard—DFM, oil choices, fuel quality, and why maintenance beats gadgets. Finally, Ron makes the case for the value of diagnosis with a real-world click-noise story that was misrepaired until the root cause was found.

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With new-car payments pushing $600–$800 a month, Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, tackles a question more drivers are asking: Is it still worth fixing an older car in 2026?

The answer often comes down to diagnosis versus guesswork. Ron explains why spending a little upfront to properly diagnose an intermittent or confusing problem can save thousands in unnecessary repairs—and help you avoid an expensive car payment.  From real-world calls involving hesitation, EVAP leaks, and “no-code” mysteries, Ron breaks down when an older vehicle is worth keeping, when it’s time to walk away, and how to talk to a shop so you get answers instead of parts swapping.

Bottom line: A diagnosed problem is almost always cheaper than a monthly payment.

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Ron “flies without a call screen” and it turns into a perfect shop-week story: storm prep, snowblowers, parts backorders, and why last-minute panic shopping doesn’t help if your car isn’t ready. Ron breaks down the winter checklist nobody talks about—spare tire access, jack tools, paperwork, lights, wiper linkage, and real-world preparedness.
Plus, calls on: slow cabin heat in a 2000 Silverado, tow/haul not working on an ’02 GMC, and a 2016 Nissan Altima CVT slipping—what to test, what to expect, and when to go straight to the dealer/manufacturer.

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From June 15, 2025, Ron packs a fast-moving hour with nonstop calls, sharp questions, and practical answers. The pace is quick, the topics are wide-ranging, and there’s no shortage of real-world advice. Buckle up and settle in—this hour moves fast.

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A Look Back at the EV Promise—and the Reality

From Thanksgiving 2022, Ron revisits a candid conversation with Mark Mills of the Manhattan Institute, examining the electric-vehicle market at a pivotal moment. What unfolds is a revealing discussion about both the promise that fueled the EV push and the practical challenges that have since reshaped the conversation—costs, infrastructure, resources, and consumer expectations. With the benefit of hindsight, this look back highlights where the optimism was justified, where reality intervened, and why the EV story is far more complicated than the headlines ever suggested.

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This hour, Ron tackles a dealership dispute after a headlight replacement—when a customer later discovers the entire inner wheelwell liner missing and can’t prove who removed it. Ron explains how to use factory procedures and documentation to hold a shop accountable and why missing liners can become a real corrosion and safety issue.

Plus: a rare day in the shop—three exhaust repairs in one day—including a Toyota Highlander with a subtle flange leak that snowballed into hardware repairs and an O2 sensor surprise. Then Ron weighs in on oil viscosity “advice” from YouTube, a Mazda CX-5 deal for a high-mile commute, and when to replace a battery on a low-use vehicle—especially with today’s electronics and battery monitoring resets.

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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel

Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900

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