Ron Ananian The Car Doctor

• Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - March 22, 2025 - Hour 1 - The Hyundai Outside Your Door - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline

  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 transmission fluid has become a point of concern. He explains the shift from using gear oil to ATF in certain vehicles and shares his own experiences with fluid changes. Tune in for insightful automotive advice and Ron’s unique take on the everyday challenges of car repairs! 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.

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• Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - March 22, 2025 - Hour 2 - 2000 Blazer Losing Power - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline

  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 about the importance of the system's integrity, mentioning that even a tiny leak can trigger the code. Ron suggests using a smoke machine to detect leaks or checking the rubber hose connections. If there's no leak, the problem might be with a faulty EVAP sensor. The next call involves a truck with intermittent performance issues where it dies after driving for about an hour or two. Ron discusses various diagnostic steps such as checking fuel pressure, mass airflow sensor, vacuum readings, and electrical connections to determine the root cause. He emphasizes the importance of replicating the problem conditions rather than relying on tests when the vehicle is functioning normally, and warns against "throwing parts" at the problem without proper diagnostics. Last call for today is about a 2006 Buick that's having trouble with its battery and charging system. The caller has replaced the alternator multiple times, but the problem persists. Ron advises the caller to perform an electrical draw test, checking for any parasitic drain from the electrical system. He explains the concept of an electrical draw test, comparing it to checking water pressure in a kitchen sink. Ron stresses the importance of ensuring the battery and connections are good, and performing tests to isolate the problem rather than relying on faulty assumptions. He concludes by highlighting the significance of proper diagnostics in solving car issues efficiently. All calls are technical, with Ron offering advice on testing and troubleshooting specific parts using a methodical approach. He emphasizes the importance of diagnosing before replacing parts unnecessarily. 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.

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• Classic Car Doctor - July 11, 2015 - Hour 1, First Half - Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor -(855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline

  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 expertise of the mechanic. He also suggests that the owner must have realistic expectations since repairs often involve educated guesses and problem-solving. Callers' Car Problems: Rick in New Haven describes a sticking brake caliper on his 2001 Buick Century. Ron explains that a sticking caliper would cause the car to pull to one side and recommends inspecting the brakes before the situation worsens. Paul in Norway discusses a 2001 Toyota Camry that starts, runs briefly, and then shuts down. Ron suggests diagnosing whether the car has spark and injector pulse to narrow down the issue. John in Shadyside, Ohio calls about a 1983 Honda Civic with a faulty fuel level sender. The part is unavailable, and Ron offers a creative solution: replacing the sender with a similar one from another car model, explaining how the sender works as a variable resistor in the fuel gauge circuit. Car News and Advice: Ron briefly mentions the unveiling of the 2016 Buick , a sleek convertible aimed at competing with European cars. He highlights the car's impressive design, especially its fast-operating top, which opens in just 17 seconds. Throughout the show, Ron stresses the importance of understanding how car systems work and how to approach repairs, suggesting that even when parts are unavailable, solutions can often be found with a bit of ingenuity. 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.

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• Classic Car Doctor - July 11, 2015 - Hour 1, Second Half - Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline

  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 troubleshooting using basic diagnostics and getting fault codes from the mechanic. Fuel Leak Smell in 2002 ConcordDon from Shelton, Connecticut, calls in about a fuel smell coming from his 2002 Concord. Ron notes the importance of inspecting the fuel system, especially since the vehicle is older, and recommends checking for fuel leaks or damp spots under the vehicle. He warns against driving it if a leak is found, as it could be hazardous. Throughout the show, Ron provides practical advice, urging listeners to check various car components like pressure caps, sensors, and fuel systems for potential issues that could lead to bigger problems down the road. 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.

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• Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - March 15, 2025 - Metal In The Trans Fluid - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline

  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 about the value of investing in a remanufactured unit. They discuss the challenge of maintaining older vehicles and the importance of considering time and cost when deciding whether to repair or replace. The second call is from Steve in Wisconsin, who describes issues with his 2006 Chevy Silverado’s four-wheel drive. The truck’s front end is hard to control in snow, and it seems to bind when driving on dry pavement. Ron helps Steve troubleshoot, explaining that the problem may stem from the shift motor or actuator, and advises further investigation. The conversation also touches on how the vehicle might have been involved in an accident, which could be contributing to the issues. Throughout the episode, Ron provides valuable insights on car repairs, emphasizing the importance of trust and communication with mechanics, as well as the significance of proper diagnostics and timing in fixing issues with older vehicles. 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.

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