Ron Ananian The Car Doctor

In this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, two callers present different issues with their vehicles.   John from New York is dealing with a 2019 RAM truck that fails inspection due to "not ready" monitors for the catalytic converter and O2 sensor. Despite trying various driving cycles to reset the onboard computer, the problem persists. Ron explains that these monitors often don’t run due to incorrect conditions, such as the engine not reaching the right coolant temperature. He recommends using a scan tool (specifically Mode 6) to identify any borderline failures that might be preventing the system from running the tests. Ron also suggests a 12-minute driving cycle at a steady speed to potentially trigger the tests.   Frank from the Bronx is experiencing a spongy brake pedal on his 2011 vehicle, even after replacing the front and rear brakes. Despite efforts like bleeding the brakes and checking the ABS system, the problem persists. Ron suggests that the issue could be related to a failur

In this memorable segment from The Car Doctor radio show, Ron Ananian showcases his ability to think on his feet. Gene, a caller, brings up several issues he's facing with his 1999 Infiniti QX4. As the conversation unfolds, Ron provides clear, actionable advice on what needs to be done to address the problems—guiding Gene step by step, live on air. It’s a great example of Ron’s expertise and how he helps listeners tackle car troubles in real-time, all while engaging with his audience during the show. Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com Follow Us On Instagram  -   @ronananian    Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos  Call Into The Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 (855)560-9900    Live Call In Show Saturdays 2-4PM Eastern Time     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The July 18, 2015 episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor features Ron discussing various car repair topics and addressing listener calls, with a mix of humor and expertise. The episode begins with Ron recounting a seemingly straightforward job involving a rearview mirror repair on a 2004 Volkswagen Touareg that unexpectedly led to a larger repair involving four tires. He then thanks listeners for joining him each week and mentions that the show is returning to New York City after a long hiatus, starting on July 25th. Ron discusses an interesting article about the future of car ownership, pondering the potential shift away from personal car ownership in the next 25 years, driven by technologies like Google’s self-driving cars and ride-sharing services like Uber. He acknowledges that while self-driving cars may be possible, it’s still a long way off and discusses the cultural attachment many people have to cars, especially older generations who grew up in a car-centric culture. The episode continues

On this episode of Classic Car Doctor podcast from July 18, 2015, Ron Ananian  discusses various car repair topics, answering listener questions: Clifford’s 2003 Toyota Camry Issues: Clifford has an exhaust leak likely caused by a flex pipe. Ron explains that repairing it requires welding and possibly replacing the catalytic converter, depending on the model. While replacing just the flex coupling may be an option, replacing the entire exhaust system could be more cost-effective long-term. Additionally, Clifford reports burning oil, and Ron suspects it’s due to worn valve seals, which is common for a car of this age. He advises staying with the recommended 5W-30 oil but suggests considering a valve seal replacement to manage oil consumption. Charles’ Battery Acid Shelf Life: Charles asks about the shelf life of battery acid, which can degrade over time. Ron explains that battery acid typically lasts 3-5 years and advises buying fresh acid to restore the battery. He also explai

In this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron discusses a variety of car repair issues, focusing on two main topics: diagnosing a misfire in a 2007 GMC Yukon and addressing oil consumption in a 2013 Buick Verano. 2007 GMC Yukon Misfire: A caller named John described a misfire problem in his vehicle, which was showing random misfires on cylinders 1, 5, and 8. Ron guides John to double-check the diagnostic scan, particularly using Mode 6 data to identify marginal misfires that haven’t yet triggered the check engine light. He advises using basic troubleshooting techniques like moving spark plugs, wires, and coils between cylinders to isolate the problem, while stressing the importance of ruling out faulty parts. Ron emphasizes that misfires typically stem from ignition, fuel, or mechanical issues but can also be caused by computer or sensor malfunctions. He suggests looking at the Mode 6 data to identify subtle misfires before they cause a check engine light. 2013 Buick Verano Oil Consumption Iss

In this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron shares a story about a longtime customer, Larry, who recently decided to purchase a classic car. Initially, Larry was interested in a 1963 Corvette, but he ended up buying a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle instead. Although Ron was initially skeptical about Larry's choice, Larry was drawn to the Beetle after seeing its restoration. The car had some issues when it came to the shop, including needing an oil change and a broken horn. Ron explains how fixing the horn was trickier than expected due to the car's outdated wiring system. He shares how the horn system works with just two wires and how the problem was ultimately traced back to loose spade terminals that needed cleaning and tightening. The simplicity of older cars is highlighted when Ron compares the Beetle’s two-page wiring diagram to the complexity of modern vehicles. Ron reflects on the nostalgia and joy that old cars like Larry’s bring, emphasizing how classic cars are more than just transportat

On today's episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron shares a story about a Monday that didn't go as expected. It all started with a mysterious Hyundai left on the street, seemingly ready for repair, but with no key and no instructions. As Ron and the team figured out the situation, they discovered a bad battery was the culprit, despite initially suspecting a more complex issue. Ron emphasizes the importance of not assuming anything during car repairs, particularly when it comes to battery replacements, which are becoming increasingly complex with modern vehicles. Later, Ron helps a caller with a 1998 Mercedes SLK experiencing repeated misfires, which may be caused by a computer issue after the car was jump-started incorrectly. The discussion delves into the challenges of reprogramming or replacing the car's computer, with Ron suggesting potential solutions, including finding specialized mobile techs for reflashing. Ron also advises on a listener's 1994 Ford F-150 manual transmission issues, where the trans

In this broadcast of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron helps two listeners with car issues. Dan in Connecticut has a 1996 Buick with issues related to the brake lights. The third brake light works, but the regular brake lights and hazard lights do not. Ron explains that the brake light switch is likely functioning since the third brake light works, and he suggests the turn signal switch is probably the issue. He recommends testing the turn signal switch using a wiring diagram and checks for voltage at the switch. If there's no power on the other side of the switch, it's faulty. He also suggests using a scan tool or testing the cruise control system to further confirm if the brake light switch is functioning. Walter in Pennsylvania has a 2012 RAM with a recurring EVAP system issue. He replaced several components like the gas cap, vapor canister, and EVAP emission system, but the check engine light came back on. Ron advises Walter to properly diagnose the issue rather than replacing parts again. He talks abo

In this blast from the past edition of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, he opens discussing several automotive issues, focusing on diagnostics and repair advice. Driveability Issues: Ron compares diagnosing cars to Forrest Gump's famous line, "life is like a box of chocolates," saying driveability issues are unpredictable. He shares two examples from his shop: A 2004 Volkswagen Touareg with a check engine light on for months and a lean fuel system code. The owner walked in with a scan tool, stating the issue and asking for a fix. Ron emphasizes the importance of mechanics conducting a thorough diagnosis rather than relying on the customer’s assumptions. An 2008 Ford Fusion with a rolling idle problem, which after several diagnostics, was determined to likely have a bad throttle body. However, Ron notes the uncertainty in automotive repairs, where even clear diagnoses might not be the full story. Handling Mechanic Conversations: Ron advises car owners to be clear about their concerns and to trust the e

On this episode of  Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor from July of 2015, there are a variety of car issues from callers seeking help. Head Gasket or Cooling System Issue?A caller from Omaha, Nebraska, Scott, discusses a potential head gasket issue on his 2024 Ford. Initially concerned about black coolant and overheating, Scott ruled out a head gasket problem after further checks. Ron suggests checking the radiator cap, as a faulty cap can cause coolant to boil over by not maintaining the right pressure, which lowers the boiling point. He advises replacing the radiator after 140,000 miles due to possible inefficiency, especially in older vehicles. Intermittent Engine ProblemDennis from Clermont, Florida, reports an occasional engine bucking problem with his 1997 Dodge Van. A mechanic suspects a crankcase sensor issue, though no fault codes have appeared. Ron recommends diagnosing further, especially checking if the check engine light works and scanning for any codes. He stresses the importance of troublesho

In this weeks Hour 2 episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, the show delves into various car issues and the importance of a trustworthy relationship with your mechanic. Ron starts by discussing a scenario where a new customer at the shop was quoted nearly $11,000 for repairs on their Cadillac Escalade by the previous repair facility doing  the maintenance and repairs. He emphasizes that having a trusted mechanic is crucial because it’s rare for a vehicle to need a significant amount of repairs all at once unless it has been poorly maintained. Ron also highlights how modern car repairs require knowledge and proper equipment, and stresses the need for mechanics to stay updated with training to avoid mistakes. Later, Ron takes calls from listeners, including Jim from Maryland, who has a 2002 GMC Sierra with a 350,000-mile history. Jim noticed transmission issues after using the truck in four-wheel drive during the winter. Ron suggests that the transmission may need a rebuild or replacement and talks

This week's Hour 1 episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor features a mix of shop stories and car repair advice. Ron starts by discussing a quieter week at the shop, mentioning how mid-March marks the transition between winter and spring, which leads to slower days for the short term. Grateful for the breather in business he talks about the fun (and sometimes surprising) experience of cleaning out his shop’s back room, uncovering old parts and tools, some of which date back decades. He reminisces about the various parts, including old exhaust studs and EGR valves, and reflects on how car repair has changed over the years, with manufacturers now providing more complete assemblies instead of smaller sub-assemblies. Ron also talks about the sentimental and nostalgic aspects of owning a repair shop, where certain items accumulate over time. He mentions how cleaning out the back room can serve as a reminder of the evolution of the business and automotive technology. The show also features a call from Con

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor discuss the evolution of spark plugs, particularly focusing on advancements in spark plug technology, such as iridium spark plugs. They invite Matt Eaton from Denso to explain the changes in spark plug materials and design over the years. Matt explains that spark plugs used to be made of copper or nickel but have evolved to use platinum and iridium, with iridium offering longer life and better performance. Modern iridium plugs can last over 100,000 miles, which is a significant improvement over older plugs, which needed replacement every 10,000 to 30,000 miles. He also highlights Denso's new Iridium TT plug, designed to improve ignition performance, fuel economy, and lower emissions, featuring a "twin tip" design for more efficient combustion. Ron & Matt discuss the importance of maintaining spark plugs and the risks of neglecting them, including issues like rough idling, misfires, and reduced fuel economy. They also talk about the dangers of changing the gap on iridium plugs,

Todays show finds host Ron Ananian, the Car Doctor, offering advice and insights on automotive repairs. The show includes a mix of casual conversation, technical advice, and listener call-ins. In the episode, Ron discusses several topics, including the costs of automotive repairs. He shares a story about a customer with a 2010 Lincoln MKX whose seemingly simple repair—a passenger-side rearview mirror replacement—became a much bigger job, requiring new tires due to damage from hitting a pothole. Ron explains the challenges of maintaining an all-wheel-drive vehicle with uneven tire wear and suggests replacing all four tires for better performance, despite the higher cost. The show also highlights the rising costs of vehicles, noting that a new Chevy Suburban now costs around $68,000, making a $2,000 repair bill seem more reasonable in comparison. Ron encourages listeners to consider the bigger picture when it comes to vehicle maintenance and repair costs. The episode includes a call from a listener,

This radio interview with Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor features Ken Miller, President of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey and owner of 821 Collision in North Haledon, NJ. They discuss the upcoming Northeast Automotive Trade Show, the largest regional event of its kind, which is now in its 48th year and will be held at the Meadowlands Exposition Center March 14, 15 & 16, 2025 The conversation focuses on the evolving automotive repair industry, particularly the increasing complexity of vehicle technology. Miller explains how both collision and mechanical repair shops must adapt to new challenges, such as OEM certification requirements and advanced vehicle systems, including ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). He highlights how repairs, even as seemingly simple as replacing a battery or side mirror, now require specialized knowledge, tools, and calibration procedures. The discussion also touches on the growing crossover between mechanical and collision repair shops due to adva

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor starts this weeks show with a repair from the shop. A new customer reached out for help with a 2018 Volvo experiencing a persistent shake at speeds above 52 mph. The car belongs to a couple from New Jersey and has been to a dealership multiple times without a resolution. Diagnosis Process: Ron test-drove the car and noted a hula hoop-like vibration at certain speeds. Placing the car in neutral at 62 mph made the shake disappear, ruling out tires, wheels, and balancing issues. The shake returned under acceleration, indicating a loaded drivetrain issue. Unplugging the rear differential’s control unit didn’t resolve the shake, eliminating the rear axle as the cause. Inspection of the front suspension and axles led to the discovery of a damaged right front axle boot, which had lost 90% of its grease. Conclusion: The right front axle was the likely culprit, also causing excessive wear on the right front tire. Despite expensive previous repairs (turbocharger replacements),

The show, hosted by Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, features automotive advice and discussions with callers about their car troubles. Guest Announcement:Ken Miller from the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey will be joining to discuss the upcoming Northeast Trade Show, the largest regional trade show in America, happening in the Meadowlands next weekend (March 14-16). Caller #1: Sarah from Tennessee (2003 BMW 330CI - Brake Issue)Sarah recently had her brakes and rotors replaced, but she's experiencing warning lights (yellow triangle with an exclamation point and a brake light) that appear in cold weather and disappear as the car warms up. Ron suggests it could be a hydraulic issue or a brake pad wear sensor problem. Advises Sarah to have the shop inspect it thoroughly, checking for leaks or faulty sensors. Emphasizes that a good mechanic should verify the previous work, as the issue could be related to the brake job done six weeks ago. Caller #2: John from Connecticut (2022 Toyota Pri

In this episode Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor interviews Satwinder Mangat, President of AllData, to discuss the evolving landscape of automotive technology and repair. Key Topics Covered: Automotive Industry Trends & SEEMA Insights Satwinder shares takeaways from the 2022 SEMA Show, highlighting a post-pandemic resurgence in innovation, attendance, and new car designs. The industry is booming with technological advancements, making cars not just transportation tools but multifunctional, connected spaces. The Growing Complexity of Vehicle Repairs Modern vehicles, equipped with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and other tech, require precise calibration for safety. What used to be a simple bumper replacement now involves recalibrating sensors and cameras to ensure proper functionality. AllData’s Role in Repair Information All Data publishes OEM repair and diagnostic content, ensuring mechanics and car owners have accurate, up-to-date information. Their ADAS Quick Reference Tool,

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor introduces Chuck Kincaid from Redline Detection, a frequent guest on the show, to discuss diagnostic techniques, particularly the use of smoke machines. Key topics covered: Importance of Diagnostics – The show highlights how vehicles today require advanced diagnostics, from simple issues like leaky tires to complex problems in electric vehicles. Using Smoke Machines for Leak Detection – Chuck explains how different types of smoke machines help diagnose various vehicle issues, including lean fuel conditions, evaporative emissions system leaks, and intake gasket failures. Pressure Variations in Smoke Machines – Not all smoke machines function the same. Higher pressure smoke machines (up to 10-15 psi) are necessary for certain tests, such as detecting intake and exhaust leaks, while lower pressure machines work for EVAP systems. Turbocharged Vehicles and Smoke Testing – The conversation covers how turbocharged engines require higher-pressure smoke testing due

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor's Fourth of July radio show from 2015 focused on car maintenance, particularly battery health during the summer heat. Host Ron Ananian emphasized that heat is a major factor in battery failures, noting an increase in cases at his shop. He also pointed out that battery manufacturers have changed their warranties, eliminating prorated coverage. Regular maintenance, such as checking battery terminals, oil levels, tire pressure, and fluid levels, can prevent breakdowns. Ron shared a personal story about seeing a stranded vehicle and linked it to poor maintenance habits. He criticized last-minute car service requests, urging listeners to be proactive. He also mentioned a Consumer Reports article on increasing oil consumption issues in vehicles and discussed a known problem with oil consumption in Honda models from 2008-2012. Honda has extended warranties to address the issue, but repairs depend on the quality of technicians. The episode encouraged vehicle owners to stay informed, priori