Ron Ananian The Car Doctor

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, takes calls from listeners with car issues. Caller: Bill from Maine (2019 Chevy Equinox) Issue: Smelling combustion-like odors inside the car, particularly at stoplights. A state inspection noted oil wetness at the engine’s underside, but no visible leak was found. The dealer could not diagnose the issue. Ron’s Advice: The smell could come from an oil or exhaust leak, possibly from the turbocharger. Bill should not rely on state inspections as a diagnostic tool. Instead, a mechanic should check for leaks thoroughly, use an engine oil dye to identify potential oil leaks, and inspect the exhaust system for small leaks. Caller: George from Tennessee (2008 Chevy Colorado) Issue: The truck intermittently fails to crank, but all dash lights stay on. After multiple attempts, it eventually starts. The issue has persisted for years. Ron’s Advice: The problem could be due to bad engine ground connections (G100–G106), a failing starter, or a corroded body contr