“Call of the Week” – Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - April 12, 2025

This week's featured call came from Chris in New Hampshire, a longtime mechanic (working since age 15, now 59) who shared an inventive and surprising method he used to successfully remove spark plugs from a problematic Ford 3-valve engine — notorious for plugs that break during removal due to carbon buildup.

Main Highlights:

• Merchandise Update: Before the call, Ron promoted the new Car Doctor and ARI Automotive T-shirts available on the show's website, including long sleeves with pockets — just in time for Father’s Day.

• Chris’s Story:
  Chris was dealing with a particularly stubborn set of spark plugs that wouldn’t budge — even with heat and power tools. One plug broke during removal. While trying to extract it, he had a last-ditch idea:
  He poured freezing cold water into the hot spark plug hole, rapidly cooling the metal. To his surprise, the broken shell loosened and came out effortlessly.
  Encouraged, he used the same process on the remaining plugs — heat the engine, remove the coil, then pour cold water into the plug wells — and successfully removed all without breakage. He’d never seen anything like it before or since.

• Ron’s Take:
  Ron praised Chris for thinking outside the box and called his success a result of experience, creativity, and problem-solving under pressure. He agreed that while the trick worked in this case, it might not be a guaranteed method every time. They discussed how many issues in auto repair — like seized spark plugs or exhaust fasteners — fall into the 30–40% of the job that’s unpredictable and requires innovation.

• Themes:

  • Mechanics’ burnout and mental resilience.

  • The importance of experimentation in tricky repair situations.

  • Carbon buildup as the root cause of spark plug failure in 3-valve Fords.

  • That old-school ingenuity still has a place in today’s automotive world.

• Conclusion:
  Chris wanted validation — was his method genius or just dumb luck? Ron reassured him: “It worked. You got paid. It’s a win.” He promised to try it if a similar case came up and mentioned his own YouTube video on removing stubborn exhaust fasteners.

This call was a great blend of humor, experience, and real-world advice — showcasing the mix of skill and improvisation that defines professional wrenching.

Visit us at https://www.cardoctorshow.com

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• Visit our You Tube Channel for auto repair tips and videos 
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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor

Welcome to Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor — the trusted voice in automotive repair, where real-world experience, sharp diagnostics, and straight talk come together to help you keep your ride running right.

🚙 2015 Jeep Wrangler — When “New” Parts Fail

• A regular customer brings in a well-maintained Jeep for a simple oil change — no complaints.

• Turns out, the check engine light is on. Codes: P0258 (vacuum pump issue) and P0440 (EVAP system fault).

• Vacuum pump tests fine. Ron proactively changes the booster check valve (which also contains a sensor).

• The ESIM (EVAP vent valve) was bad — replaced and verified fixed.

• Installs a new Chrysler purge valve — it fails.

• Tries a second new one — also fails.

• Old part works fine. Even an aftermarket copy failed.

• Conclusion: There’s a bad production run of purge valves, even from OEM sources.

• Lesson: “New doesn’t mean good.” Always diagnose, don’t just swap parts.

🧰 Classic '57 Chevy — Mysterious Trans Fluid Leak

• Ed owns a beautiful 1957 Chevy with only 57,000 miles.

• Reports a quart of automatic transmission fluid leaks out during storage — but not while driving.

• Ron suspects converter drain-back, a common issue on long-stored classics.

• Solutions:

  • A check valve on the trans cooler line

  • Possibly a longer dipstick tube

  • Or just lower fluid level when storing the car

• Ron offers to personally help Ed connect with a Tri-Five club since Ed doesn’t use the internet.

• Reminder: Old cars need smart storage habits, even if they’re in great shape.

🛠️ Toyota Tundra — Oil Filter Conversion Question

• John asks if he should convert his 2021 Toyota Tundra from a cartridge-style oil filter to a spin-on type.

• Reason: Concern about oil draining back and dry starts.

• Ron says: Stick with OEM unless there's a real issue.

  • Toyota designed it that way for a reason.

  • No widespread failures reported.

  • Don’t re-engineer something that works reliably.

• Takeaway: “Don’t fix what’s not broken — and don’t believe every mod you read about online.”

🔧 Ford 3-Valve Engines — Spark Plug Nightmares

• Chris, a longtime tech, shares frustration over broken spark plugs in Ford’s 3-valve engines.

• Asks Ron if there’s a better removal technique.

• Ron uses penetrating oil, works on hot and cold engines, and keeps multiple extractor tools (Lyle, KD, etc.).

• Bottom line: Even with prep, these plugs often break — it’s poor design.

• Wisdom: Use the best tools, stay patient, and don’t blame yourself — sometimes the part sets you up to fail.

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.

This episode of Ron Ananian: The Car Doctor radio show is a classic mix of Ron’s hands-on mechanical experience, practical advice, and personable banter with callers and listeners. Here's a summary and description of the episode:

🎙️ Episode Summary: 🔧 Segment 1 – Starter Replacement on a 2007 Honda Accord:

Ron opens the show talking about a video he just filmed demonstrating how to replace a starter on a 2007 Honda Accord (4-cylinder). He points out that while GM was criticized for putting starters under the intake manifold, Honda did the same thing, and nobody complained. He discusses the abundance of bad advice on YouTube, like rushing the job and pulling on old, brittle parts. His philosophy is clear: take your time, be careful, or risk breaking more than you fix.

“I’d rather be cautious and not break something than rush to get something done.”

👥 Segment 2 – Call from Childhood Friend "Chuck" in Texas:

A special moment follows when Ron takes a call from Chuck, an old neighborhood kid who used to watch him work on cars as a teenager. Chuck brings up an issue with front-end clunking on his truck (likely an F-150), traced to a sway bar bushing problem. Chuck replaced them with MOOG bushings, but he's still experiencing noise and play in the sway bar. He also noticed a retaining ring on only one side of the sway bar and is confused about its purpose.

Ron suspects:

• Wrong-size bushings

• Possibly not actual MOOG parts (they’re usually blue, not red)

• Or worn components like the sway bar links.

They dive into troubleshooting methods, tools (impact wrench, cutting tools), and the possibility of cutting the stubborn bolts off if they can’t be removed. Ron emphasizes getting the correct part specs and even measuring the sway bar diameter.

🔧 Segment 3 – Caller "Terry" with a Misfiring Subaru:

Terry from Wisconsin calls to thank Ron for helping solve a misfire issue on his Subaru. Although the car wasn't throwing codes, Ron previously suggested a diagnostic routine & made the case for replacing the spark plugs and transmission fluid. It worked! The car is now running fine.

Ron uses this as a teachable moment to explain Mode 6 diagnostics – a deeper level of OBD-II data that helps identify misfires and marginal component failures before a check engine light comes on. He urges all mechanics to understand and use Mode 6.

Ron also suggests a BG carbon cleaning service for preventative maintenance and better performance.

🚗 Segment 4 – Caller from Pennsylvania with a Vibrating 2004 Toyota Matrix:

A listener calls about a severe vibration issue that started after installing snow tires. Even after swapping to brand-new, high-end tires, the vibration remains. Ron suspects it might not be tire-related and asks about any recent work (none was done). He begins diagnosing potential drivetrain or suspension issues, suggesting the vibration is likely not tire-related, but part of something deeper (possibly axles, mounts, or wheel bearings).

🧰 Key Takeaways:

• Be skeptical of overly simplified or rushed DIY advice online.

• Don’t yank on 15-year-old car parts—they break.

• Always verify part compatibility, especially with aftermarket parts like bushings.

• Mode 6 data is underused but powerful for pre-emptive diagnostics.

• When bolts won’t budge, sometimes it’s quicker and safer to cut them.

• Mechanical integrity > speed — do it once, do it right.

🎧 Vibe & Tone:

• Friendly, practical, and no-nonsense.

• Ron is relatable, down-to-earth, and passionate about proper car care.

• He combines real-world shop experience with genuine care for his audience.

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.

In this interview, Ron Ananian, "The Car Doctor," speaks with Kyle Fischer, Director at Hot Shot Secret, about engine additives and the concept of "stiction." Stiction, a combination of "sticky friction," occurs when carbon builds up inside an engine, leading to problems with oil flow and engine components. Kyle explains how Hot Shot Secret focuses on developing products that target specific issues in both gasoline and diesel engines, like improving fuel quality and reducing friction.

They discuss Hot Shot Secret's Diesel Extreme product, designed to combat issues like poor lubricity in diesel fuel, which results from government regulations on sulfur content. Diesel Extreme contains six key components to address these problems, improving fuel system performance. On the gasoline side, the growing use of small turbocharged engines presents challenges like carbon buildup, which Hot Shot Secret products also help clean.

Kyle also shares the origin of Hot Shot Secret, explaining that their founder, a tribologist, developed a product to fix issues with diesel injectors in Ford's 6.0L and 7.3L engines. This product, the Stiction Eliminator, was so effective that it became the company's flagship offering. Finally, Kyle talks about the company's friction reducer, FR3, which helps reduce engine wear by using nanocarbon particles to minimize friction in the engine.

The interview highlights how Hot Shot Secret's research-driven products help extend engine life by addressing common fuel and oil system problems, benefiting both diesel and gasoline engine owners.

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.

In this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron discusses several important automotive topics, focusing on misinformation, safety concerns, and diagnostic strategies.

 - He starts by emphasizing the responsibility of broadcasting accurate information, especially in the automotive field. Ron reflects on his years of experience and stresses the importance of avoiding shortcuts that can lead to more harm than good. He specifically criticizes a Facebook post he saw, which suggested disconnecting a vehicle's battery to solve running problems. Ron strongly disagrees with this blanket advice, explaining that modern vehicles rely on adaptive systems like memory resets and fuel trims that could be disrupted, leading to further issues.

- The next point of concern is safety. Ron critiques another video that showed improper techniques for replacing a rear wheel bearing, such as using a floor jack without proper jack stands and striking steel on steel, which can be dangerous. He shares his own safety standards and personal experiences, warning listeners to be cautious when following advice from social media, as it can sometimes be misleading or dangerous.

 - He also discusses a listener’s car issue related to a 2012 Chrysler 500C Sport. The car experiences a problem with fueling where the gas pump shuts off frequently when filling the tank. Ron explains that this could be related to the evaporative emission system, particularly the charcoal canister or the fuel tank's internal valve. He outlines a methodical diagnostic process to help identify the source of the problem, emphasizing the importance of eliminating potential causes step by step.

 - Later, Ron answers a listener's question about transmission maintenance, distinguishing between a fluid "flush" and a "fluid change." He advises against the term "flush," which implies pressure, and recommends an "exchange" where the fluid is exchanged via the transmission’s circulation system.

Ron wraps up the episode by discussing some lighter topics, such as the idea of selling branded T-shirts for his show, before diving back into more technical discussions with other listeners.

Throughout, Ron emphasizes the importance of accurate information and careful, well-thought-out diagnostics in car repair, warning against risky shortcuts or relying on potentially harmful advice from unverified sources.

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.

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 failure in the ABS hydraulic control unit (HCU), which is common in older vehicles. He advises checking the rear brakes and parking brake first to ensure they are functioning properly before considering replacing the HCU, which may be challenging to source due to the vehicle’s age.

The episode concludes with a conversation about stiction—a term describing a mechanical issue in engines—and an interview with Kyle Fischer from Hotshot Secret, a company specializing in vehicle products designed to enhance performance and longevity.

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.

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 with a call from a listener, Herman from Hagerstown, Maryland, who describes an issue with his 1995 Chevrolet pickup, which intermittently misfires, especially after being driven in the fields. Ron suggests the problem might be related to the ignition system and recommends using a spray bottle with water to test if moisture is affecting the ignition system.

Later in the show, Ron interviews Shirley Vane, an 82-year-old Corvette enthusiast who participated in a no-speed-limit road race in Idaho. She talks about the charity event, the thrill of racing her Corvette at high speeds (with her top speed being 166 mph), and her plans to race again. Shirley shares her background in cars, including her first car, a 1946 Oldsmobile, and discusses the changes in car culture as the younger generation becomes less interested in traditional car ownership. The interview ends with Ron wishing her good luck in her upcoming race.

Throughout the show, Ron adds his usual light-hearted humor, offering practical advice for car issues while also engaging with his audience about the evolving future of cars and driving.

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.

On this episode of Classic Car Doctor podcast from July 18, 2015, Ron Ananian  discusses various car repair topics, answering listener questions:

1. 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.

2. 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 explains how older acid may cause performance issues and recommends checking the battery and acid for any deterioration.

3. Scott’s Jeep Cherokee Swap:

   • Scott wants to swap parts from a 1999 Jeep Cherokee into a 1997 model, including the engine and drivetrain. Ron advises checking the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) and using an interchange guide to determine compatibility of parts. While the engines are similar, Ron cautions about potential differences in components like oil pans, sensors, and flywheels, and suggests some tweaking might be necessary for the swap.

4. Austin’s 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis Electrical Problem:

   • Austin faces intermittent electrical issues with his car, which dies unexpectedly despite a new alternator. Ron suspects a battery drain issue and suggests checking fuses, the lighting control module (which may have been recalled), or a potential fault with the keyless entry system. He advises performing a detailed diagnostic test to identify the exact cause of the drain before replacing more parts.

Throughout the show, Ron emphasizes the importance of diagnosing problems carefully rather than rushing to replace parts, and offers practical advice on vehicle repairs.

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.

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.

1. 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.

2. 2013 Buick Verano Oil Consumption Issue: The second part of the show focuses on a Buick Verano with oil consumption issues and other smaller problems. Ron explains that GM's 2.4L Ecotec engines are prone to sticking piston rings, causing oil consumption. Although the vehicle is out of warranty, Ron proposes using a product called Stiction Eliminator, which may help free up the rings and improve oil consumption. The vehicle also had issues with the right front lug nuts, some of which were damaged or missing, so Ron suggests replacing them to ensure safety.

Overall, Ron emphasizes the importance of small details in car repairs and offers practical advice for diagnosing and addressing common automotive issues.

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.