Classic Car Doctor - July 25, 2015 - Hour 1, Second Half - Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
Classic Car Doctor - Ron Ananian: The Car Doctor – Episode Summary 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Flash Update:Ron revisits a caller’s issue with being charged for a software update (PCM/TCM flash). He believes the dealer may be misrepresenting the service, since emissions-related components like PCMs are usually covered under an 8-year/80,000-mile federal warranty. He advises the caller to push back and escalate the issue. 2010 Ford Escape Airbag Concern:A listener finds out that after a 2010 accident, the airbag system was never properly repaired — someone installed an "inhibitor" that disabled the airbags, leaving them inactive for years. Ron is alarmed, calling it a major liability and safety risk, and urges the caller to speak with their insurance company and possibly escalate it legally. 1998 Ford Expedition – Transmission & Coolant Mixing:A caller reports cross-contamination between transmission fluid and engine coolant. Ron explains this is likely due to a failed radiator transmission cooler. He recommends replacing the radiator, flushing both systems, and servicing the transmission, cautioning it could cost up to $1,000, depending on parts and labor. 2000 Dodge Intrepid – No-Start Electrical Issue:A listener struggles with a persistent no-start issue. After sensor replacements and a fuse fix, the problem continues. Ron suspects a shorted wire in the engine harness — a common issue where the wiring rubs against the valve cover and wears through, causing fuse failures. 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.
--------
17:29
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Interview - April 19, 2025 - Aaron Shaffer of Standard Motor Products - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
Radio Interview - Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Talks with Aaron Schaeffer (Standard Motor Products) Topic: Where do auto parts come from, and what should consumers know about quality? 🏭 About Standard Motor Products Founded in 1919, originally Standard Ignition. Now focuses on vehicle control systems, not just engine parts. Operates 21 global manufacturing plants with full in-house engineering. ⚠️ Quality Matters: Amazon Parts vs. Standard Many parts sold online are cheap, untested, and unsafe. No regulatory body ensures quality in auto parts sales. Inferior parts (e.g., purge valves, injectors) can cause engine damage. Standard builds to OEM or better specs with proper validation and testing. 🔧 Highlighted Products Fuel Injectors: Made in Greenville, SC—the only full-line U.S. injector plant. Include precise spray patterns and full install kits. Blue Streak line: Premium parts with upgrades over OEM (e.g., better materials, moisture protection, complete kits). 🔍 Industry Trends Rise in advanced ICE tech (turbochargers, GDI/MFI systems, VVT, cylinder deactivation). These components are now failing in aging cars, creating aftermarket demand. Standard also supports newer tech like ADAS sensors and is preparing for EV needs (battery cooling parts). 📦 Resources Website: standardbrand.com YouTube: Standard Brand – 700+ videos for DIYers and pros Visit Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor 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.
--------
15:23
Call Of The Week - Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - April 19, 2025 - Anne And Her DC to DC Charging Station Problem 2023 Pro Master Van Conversion - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
Call Of The Week; Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, April 19, 2025 Ann from Arizona called into Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor to ask about using a Bluetti DC-to-DC charger to power her portable power station from her 2023 RAM ProMaster 1500 cargo van while idling. She lives and travels in the van and relies on the power station for everyday needs like cooking and charging devices. Her question: Can prolonged idling to charge the power station damage the alternator or vehicle systems? 🔧 Ron’s Response & Key Takeaways ✅ Idling Itself Is Not the Issue... Ron reassures Ann that idling a modern vehicle occasionally for power needs is not inherently harmful, but the impact depends on: How much current (amps) is being pulled from the alternator. How long the engine is left idling. How well-maintained the engine and charging system are. ⚠️ What to Watch Out For: Alternator Load: Every alternator has a maximum amperage rating (e.g., 100 amps). If your power station charger pulls close to or over that limit, especially at idle where alternators are less efficient, it can overwork or overheat the alternator. Constant high output shortens its lifespan or could cause premature failure. Engine Heat & Wear: Idling generates less airflow than driving, so under-hood heat builds up. Extended idling stresses: Cooling system Oil and fluids Electrical components Emergency vehicles often use heavy-duty parts (like heat-resistant hoses) to handle this, but stock vehicles don’t. Modern Smart Charging Systems: Newer vehicles like Ann’s have computer-controlled alternators. They adjust alternator output based on demand, which helps efficiency and could reduce stress during charging—a positive for her setup. 🔍 Ron’s Recommendation Ann should have an auto-electric shop or RV specialist do a draw test: Connect the power station, Run the van at idle, Measure the actual amperage being pulled from the alternator. Then compare that number to the alternator’s rated capacity. This test will confirm whether idling for charging is within safe limits or if adjustments (like a higher-output alternator or changing charging habits) are needed. ✅ Practical Advice in the Meantime Charge the power station while driving when possible—this reduces stress on the system. Be diligent with routine maintenance, especially: Oil changes Cooling system checks Battery and charging system inspections 🛠️ Conclusion: Ron didn’t see anything immediately dangerous with Ann’s setup, but emphasized that understanding actual power draw is key to preventing long-term damage. With smart planning and regular maintenance, charging a power station from a vehicle alternator can be done safely. 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.
--------
8:17
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - April 19, 2025 - Hour 2 - The Stripped Out Oil Drain Plug - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
This Week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor 🛠 Opening Story – It’s All About the DiagnosisRon diagnoses a 2018 Chevy Traverse's cold-start rattle in 30 minutes—just a loose catalytic converter.Moral: It’s not about force—it’s knowing where to look. 🧰 Caller: Stripped Drain Plug (Tom, AZ)Tom’s shop says his Buick needs a $700 oil pan after stripped threads. Ron says: Try a helicoil or time-sert first Toggle plugs are temporary After 22 years, give the shop a chance to make it right 🚗 Caller: Low-Mileage Tacoma (Tim, PA)2016 Tacoma with 23k miles—what to replace? Coolant: Yes, at 10 years Hoses: Maybe wait till year 15 Battery: Replace if it’s original Fuel system cleaning can help prevent carbon buildupReminder: Time matters as much as miles. 📦 Interview Preview – Aaron Schaeffer (Standard Motor Products)SMP is more than engine parts—now making sensors, ABS, park assist, and more.Buyer beware: Cheap parts online can cause serious issues.SMP fuel injectors = OE-quality, U.S. engineered and tested. 🧠 Big Takeaways Smart diagnostics save big bucks Maintenance isn’t just about mileage Quality parts + good shops = longer-lasting cars 📞 More Info Live Saturdays 2-4PM ET cardoctorshow.com Instagram: @ronananian Hotline: (855) 560-9900 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
--------
36:27
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - April 19, 2025 - Hour 1 - DC-DC Battery Chargers - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
Episode Summary Ron dives into everything from classic car quirks to modern maintenance musts. Here's the quick rundown: 🔧 Powerglide Fix (1957 Chevy)Old Chevy transmissions can burp fluid out the dipstick. Ron suggests a clever vent mod using a small pipe plug and copper tube to safely release air pressure—no gimmicks needed. 🚗 Shop Trend: Fewer Cars, Bigger RepairsPeople are delaying maintenance, leading to major repairs. One oil change turned into a 3-day suspension job. Lesson? Small problems snowball if ignored. 📋 Top 5 Maintenance Tips Track mileage, don’t guess Know your service intervals (30k/60k/etc.) Replace batteries around year 5 Don’t push 15,000-mile oil changes Regular checkups save $$$ ⚡ Van Life Charging AdviceAnn’s charging her camper van’s power station by idling her 2023 Ram ProMaster. Ron warns: that’s hard on alternators. Charge while driving and get your draw measured by a pro. 🧰 Crank-No-Start TroubleshootingFred’s hard-starting 3.7L engine might not be a timing issue. Ron says: check spark, fuel, and codes before guessing. Could be a sensor or even a security glitch. 💡 Final TakeawayDelaying maintenance is costly. Stay ahead with routine checks, especially with today’s car prices. Prevention beats a breakdown every time. 📞 More Info Call The Car Doctor: (855) 560-9900 Live Saturdays 2-4PM ET cardoctorshow.com Follow on IG: @ronananian YouTube for tips & repairs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With over 40 years of repairing cars and 27 on the radio helping you repair them, Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, is an expert at everything automotive. Call us at 855-560-9900.
USA