Bumper to Bumper Podcast

When the check engine light pops on, it can feel like the technician is speaking a different language. In this episode, Dave and John break down one of the most common — and most confusing — concepts in modern auto repair: fuel trims. We’re talking what they are, why they matter, and how they can reveal what’s really going on under your hood.

You’ll learn:

• What “lean” and “rich” codes actually mean

• Why your engine constantly adjusts fuel delivery

• How shops diagnose fuel delivery problems the right way

• How understanding fuel trims can prevent unnecessary repairs

Whether you’re a DIY’er or just trying not to get taken for a ride, this episode will put you in the know the next time you visit a repair shop.

Dave Riccio and John Riggle are back with a public service announcement every GM truck owner needs to hear. This week, they’re breaking down a common failure in the 6L80 transmission — the thermal bypass valve — and why this small part can lead to major transmission damage if ignored.

They explain how to spot the bad valves, what years are affected, and the difference between the original and redesigned parts (hint: check for that “Made in Canada” sticker). Whether you’re driving a Silverado, Sierra, Yukon, or Suburban, this episode could save you from a costly repair.

💡 Key takeaways:

• Why every 6L80 thermal bypass valve will eventually fail

• How to identify the updated version (and what the “#2” vs. “70” stamp means)

• Why bypass kits aren’t always the answer

• What GM owners should do before it’s too late

🚗 Stay in the know about your car — listen and subscribe to the Bumper to Bumper Podcast.

Is a transmission service the fix your car needs—or can it make things worse? In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio and John Riggle dive deep into one of the most common questions drivers have: “Will a transmission service fix my car?”We break down:When a transmission service can actually solve issues (like torque converter shudder on Chevy Colorados).When it won’t help—or could even make problems worse.Why modern cars don’t have dipsticks (and why “sealed transmissions” are a myth).The real rule of thumb for how often you should service your transmission.Why a bad service can be worse than no service at all.If you’ve ever wondered about transmission maintenance, fluid changes, or factory service recommendations, this episode is packed with insights that could save you time, money, and frustration.🔧 Key Takeaways:Service intervals: about every 50,000 miles (with exceptions).Signs of bad fluid and what it means for your transmission’s health.How improper service leads to costly mistakes.Why you can’t always trust the factory manual.🚗 Whether you’re a car owner, DIY enthusiast, or just curious about how your vehicle works, this episode helps you understand when to service your transmission—and when not to.

Can your car go 200,000+ miles? Spoiler: yes, if you treat it right. Host Dave Riccio with Tri-City Transmission and Auto Repair sits down with Spencer Doucet, owner of H&I Automotive with 3 locations (Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, AZ), to talk modern vehicle longevity, the “maintenance mindset,” and why a well-cared-for 150k-mile ride can beat a neglected 80k “jalopy.”  Dave and Spenser have been long-time friends, starting with their time on Bumper to Bumper Radio on New 92.3 KTAR, Arizona’s number one news talk.

In this episode:

Why the average car age is ~13.5 years and 200k miles is totally achievable.

The real cost comparison: big repair vs. “just buy a different used car”

The transmission failure bell curve (100k–150k–200k) and what that means for you

Arizona-specific maintenance: oil every ~5,000 miles; other key fluids ~30,000 miles

How minor fixes (door handles, dents, trim) keep you proud—and keep you maintaining

Budgeting smart: set aside ~$150–$175/mo per car for maintenance & repairs

Building a relationship with a trustworthy shop vs. chasing coupons

Quick checklist to make your car last:

✅ Follow routine oil & fluid intervals (especially in hot climates)

✅ Fix little issues early—don’t let them snowball

✅ Keep it clean inside & out (you’ll treat it better)

✅ Save monthly for upcoming services

✅ Stick with one reputable shop that knows your car’s history

Guests & Shops Mentioned:

H&I Automotive — Mesa • Gilbert • Queen Creek https://handiautomotive.com/in/

Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair — Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler and the East Valley

If this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a friend who’s deciding between repairing or replacing their car.

om Washing Cars to Owning 3 Shops: Spencer's Journey in the Auto Repair World 🚘

In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, host Dave Riccio sits down with Spencer Doucet, Owner of H & I Automotive, to explore his incredible journey from washing cars at a dealership to owning three successful auto repair shops.

Spencer Doucet, a regular guest on the Bumper to Bumper Radio show on 92.3 KTAR Saturdays at 11:00, shares his journey into automotive repair.

Why he laughed at the idea of becoming a mechanic in high school 😆

How initiative and a “beginner’s mind” helped him level up fast

What it was like rebuilding engines as a lube tech at 19 🔧

Why you don’t need a $50K degree to succeed in the industry

Lessons on growth, mentorship, and keeping your ego in check

How the 2008 recession pushed him to open his first shop in Mesa

The power of slowing down to go faster and build a lasting business

If you’re curious about a career in automotive repair or want to hear how grit, humility, and curiosity can turn into a thriving business, this episode is a must-listen.  If you are already in the automotive industry, this episode will bring back memories of your journey.

Spencer’s Story is inspirational for anyone wanting to open their own automotive shop.  He has proven that patience, passion, and determination are the road to success.  

Thinking about buying a used car? Don’t make a costly mistake. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle (with 75+ years of combined auto experience) break down the real truth about used car shopping.They cover:✅ Why so many used cars end up for sale✅ How to budget for unexpected repairs✅ Certified pre-owned vs private party deals✅ The danger of salvage titles & auction cars✅ Why that “great deal” might be hiding thousands in repairsWhether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned car owner, this episode will help you make smarter, safer, and more cost-effective decisions.👍 Like & Subscribe for more weekly insights on car care and smart ownership.#UsedCarBuying #CarAdvice #AutoRepair #CarShoppingTips #BumperToBumperPodcast

Think your car battery is fine just because your engine starts? Think again. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and John Riggle dive deep into how a seemingly "okay" battery can cause serious problems across your entire vehicle—especially your transmission.From adaptation issues and solenoid failures to corrupted long-term memory in your car’s computer, we explain why battery health is way more important than most drivers realize. We also cover:🔋 How a weak battery affects shift adaptations🧠 What “keepalive memory” is and how it works⚙️ Why throttle bodies, fuel pumps, and alternators adapt over time💡 The real reason you need to register a new battery on modern vehicles🛠️ Real shop stories where a bad battery was the root of major issuesIf you're in a hot climate like Arizona, or just trying to avoid costly repairs, this episode is a must-watch.

In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, host Dave Riccio sits down with Josh Dana of Dana Brothers Diesel to break down everything you thought you knew about diesel engines—and what you actually need to know.From modern diesel myths and real maintenance tips, to why DEF fluid placement matters (a lot), this episode is packed with must-hear advice for diesel owners new and old. Learn the dos and don'ts of diesel repair, why newer diesels are cleaner and more efficient than ever, and how a simple mistake can cost you thousands.Topics Covered:Common diesel misconceptionsHow long modern diesel engines can lastWhy changing your oil every 5K miles is non-negotiableThe #1 costly mistake diesel owners makeHow fuel additives can save your engineWhy tuning and mods can be a slippery slopeWhat tools can protect your investment while towing👨‍🔧 Whether you're hauling 15,000 lbs or daily-driving a diesel SUV, this episode will help you make smarter decisions and avoid expensive mistakes.

In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper podcast, Dave Riccio sits down with Tyler Turdo from Dynamic Tint to talk about everything you didn’t know you needed to know about protecting your car.We cover:✅ What paint protection film (PPF) is and why it's more than just a "clear bra"✅ How ceramic coatings protect your paint, plastics, and even wheels✅ The truth about windshield tinting — is it legal? ✅ Why tinting isn’t just for looks — it protects you and your dashboard✅ Real talk about pricing, quality installs, and what to expect from a legit shop✅ How personalization (like color PPF) is changing the game for new car ownersWhether you drive a Toyota Tacoma or a Tesla, this episode will help you understand how to keep your ride looking showroom-fresh for years.🔗 Learn more: https://dynamictintaz.com/Located near Tempe Marketplace in Tempe, Arizona

It’s getting hot out there — especially in Phoenix, Arizona — and that means auto shops are flooded with air conditioning complaints. But did you know most A/C problems are misdiagnosed because of poor communication?In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle break down:-The #1 reason cars come back to the shop after A/C service-Why “not cold enough” doesn’t always mean low refrigerant-How airflow and cabin filters play a bigger role than you think-Why vague complaints like “my A/C isn’t working” can lead to the wrong repairs-What to say when you call a shop for air conditioning service-Common myths about A/C performance and refrigerant leaks-Real stories from the shop (including a flickering control panel and a missing cabin filter door)🎧 Whether your car blows hot air, weak air, or cool-but-not-cold air, this episode will help you better understand how to communicate the problem and get it fixed right the first time.