Week in Review: Orchestrating Chaos in the Shop

In this episode, The Car Doctor Ron Ananian reflects on a jam-packed week at his repair shop. Despite starting with an empty schedule, by Tuesday the shop was overflowing with work—requiring fast decisions and careful coordination to manage the mechanical mayhem.

Highlights from the Shop Floor

• 2005 PT Cruiser: A long-neglected vehicle returned with cooling issues. Years after ignoring Ron’s advice to replace the timing belt, the owner finally faced the consequences. Ron installed a thermostat and added K-Seal as a last-resort fix for the aging car.

• 2011 Chrysler Town & Country: Rusted components turned a routine control arm job into a full-blown project. The team had to drop the engine cradle to work around seized bolts—a reminder that even desert-stored vehicles aren't immune to corrosion.

• 2012 Cadillac SRX: This first-time customer thought the engine was overheating, but Ron revealed the truth: a stuck-open thermostat triggered a misleading warning due to GM’s default strategy. Minimal maintenance over the years left the car beyond practical repair.

• 2009 Toyota Camry: What began as an oil change uncovered a cascade of neglected issues—bad water pump, leaking radiator, cracked belts, and more. Despite the chaos, Ron's team got it back on the road, only to discover a failing alternator minutes before closing time.

Takeaway

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, highlights how delayed maintenance snowballs into major repairs—costing more time, money, and stress for both customers and shops. This episode captures the unpredictable rhythm of running a repair shop and reinforces the importance of staying ahead on vehicle care.

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor – Memorial Day & Auto Advice

Ron opens the show by previewing next weekend’s Memorial Day episode, which will again feature archived interviews with his late Uncle Steve—a WWII P-51 fighter pilot. This tradition honors veterans and reminds listeners of the deeper meaning behind the holiday.

Listener Calls:

• Frank (2019 Honda Touchscreen Issue):
  Ron advises against disconnecting the battery and recommends a professional diagnostic at the dealership. Documenting the issue is key in case of future recalls or warranty updates.

• Mike (1978 Mercury Marquis Revival):
  For this low-mileage classic car, Ron stresses proper prep before starting: check oil, prime the engine manually, clean the fuel system, and inspect cylinders to avoid damage.

• Bob (2008 Range Rover Transmission Issue):
  With over 240,000 miles, Ron recommends a full code-based diagnosis before considering solenoid repair or full transmission replacement.

Final Thoughts:

The show blends technical advice with heartfelt reflection, as Ron uses his platform to promote careful diagnostics and meaningful Memorial Day remembrance through stories like Uncle Steve’s.

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In this Call Of The Week from Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor Radio Show...

Joe from Pennsylvania has a 2010 Chevy Impala that intermittently gets stuck in Park. The shifter doesn’t have a manual release, and AAA refuses to tow it in that condition. Ron explains the issue likely involves the shift interlock circuit, which depends on the brake light switch, Body Control Module (BCM), and a solenoid controlled by a dark green wire with a white stripe.

Ron advises Joe to:

• Check if brake lights work when the issue occurs.

• Test for 12V on the green/white wire when pressing the brake.

• Use a 194 test bulb inline on that wire to confirm power.

• Check the ground at the solenoid.

• Make sure the brake switch was calibrated (BPP calibration) if it was replaced.

If power reaches the solenoid but it doesn’t click, it’s likely the solenoid or ground. If no power, the problem is upstream in the circuit.

Ron emphasizes understanding the circuit before replacing parts.

Full episodes of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor also available. 

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

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• Live Call In Show Saturdays 2-4PM Eastern Time 

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Ron Ananian "The Car Doctor" Radio Show:

Ron opens the show by discussing recent media appearances, particularly focusing on dashboard warning lights, with a segment on the check engine light drawing significant listener interest across social media platforms. Ron then takes us on a deeper dive into the check engine light; what it means when it turns on and then off intermittently, He emphasizes that modern cars constantly self-test their systems—especially emission-related components—and even transient issues can trigger the light.

Ron stresses the importance of capturing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) as soon as the light appears, either with a personal scanner, a visit to a parts store, or by asking a trusted mechanic. He discusses common causes like fuel blend issues, oxygen sensor faults, and catalytic converter efficiency (e.g., codes P0420 and P0430). He explains how systems like freeze frame data provide vital context, such as engine conditions at the time of failure, and why clearing codes prematurely can erase that valuable info.

He criticizes the "head-in-the-sand" approach many car owners take, warning against ignoring warning lights before long trips. To drive home the point, he likens a car's self-check to a person’s morning routine—each check step can reveal issues before they become major.

In the second half, a caller named John discusses an intermittent starting problem on his 2003 Chevy Impala. After replacing a crank sensor and checking the fuel system, John discovers that the ignition control module was the root cause. Ron walks through his logical diagnostic approach, including checking spark color, using plastic tubing to test for fuel leaks, and watching for rodent damage (which John found). Ron commends John for his solid diagnostics and suggests replacing the coils as preventative maintenance.

In a later call, a listener named Joe describes a 2010 Impala stuck in park due to a shifter issue. Ron begins diagnosing by asking if the brake lights work—implying a possible brake switch or shift interlock solenoid failure. He continues to diagnose the problem for all; except for the caller, whom does not seem to be listening.

Ron closes with show updates, reminding listeners about a new YouTube video on diagnosing a fuel pump issue in a 2015 Tacoma and reminds everyone about his available T-Shorts and merchandise found on his website.

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

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🚗 Car Doctor Episode Recap: Safety First! 🛠️
with Ron Ananian

This week, Ron dives into vehicle neglect and safety concerns, with real examples from his shop:

🔧 2015 Chevy City Express Van – Tire cords were exposed and flapping, yet the driver was still using it daily.
🔧 Brake Failure – A car had no rear brake pad left, but the owner ignored the noise because “it went away.”
🔧 2002 Honda Odyssey – Rear wheel bearing was so destroyed the wheel was nearly detaching!

💡 Ron’s Message: Times are tough, but skipping car maintenance can lead to serious accidents. Cut a luxury, not your safety.

🎥 Coming Sunday: New YouTube video on diagnosing a tricky no-start in a 2015 Toyota Tacoma, including why aftermarket scan tools failed and only a factory-level tool (Opus IVS) gave the right answer.

📞 Caller Highlights:
🔹 Tom from Wisconsin – Silverado randomly stalls. Ron suggests checking voltage at the ignition switch and fuse block.
🔹 Darryl from Tennessee – No heat in his Lexus. Likely a blend door or HVAC module issue, but needs a scan tool to confirm.

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

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor on KVOI 1030 AM:

Summary of Interview with Ron Ananian on KVOI AM 1030:

In this interview with Host Allen Kath, on KVOI AM 1030, car expert and radio host Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, discusses the essentials of summer car care and travel preparation. Drawing on over 50 years of automotive repair experience, Ananian shares practical advice for everyday drivers, emphasizing preventative maintenance to avoid breakdowns during road trips.

Key points from the discussion include:

• Start with the basics: Check oil change history, tire pressure, and perform visual inspections. Faded oil change stickers often indicate overdue service.

• Don't wait until the last minute: Due to ongoing parts shortages and quality issues, repair shops may face delays. Plan maintenance well ahead of any travel.

• Synthetic oils are now standard: Older cars still benefit from synthetic blends, but maintenance intervals should still be followed based on time and mileage.

• Battery maintenance is critical: Batteries often fail in hot climates like Arizona due to heat and vibration. A battery over 3–5 years old may be at risk, especially in cars like Hondas that use high-failure Group 51 batteries.

• Dashboard lights matter: Check engine lights are not decorative—they signal real problems and should not be ignored.

• Women are a significant part of his audience: Ananian notes he aims to educate and empower all listeners, especially women, by explaining car issues clearly and from a safety-first perspective.

• Modern vehicles require more technology: Many repairs now need scan tools and battery management resets, making DIY fixes less feasible for most people.

Ananian highlights a cultural tendency to neglect car care until something breaks, comparing it to how people always find money for a broken water heater or air conditioner, but hesitate on car repairs. He encourages drivers to treat car upkeep as a non-negotiable part of travel preparation.

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

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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor

AI Comes to Automotive Diagnostics

In this forward-looking episode, Ron Ananian dives into the future of auto repair technology with guests Steve Etheridge and Jim Fish from Opus IVS. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is being integrated into modern diagnostic tools—and what that means for technicians, shops, and the automotive industry as a whole.

Key Highlights:

• 🔧 Introduction of the DrivePro 2 Scan Tool
  Learn about Opus IVS's newest innovation, the DrivePro 2, a cutting-edge diagnostic device designed to streamline and enhance vehicle troubleshooting.

• 🤖 Meet AiDN: The Built-In AI Assistant
  Discover how AiDN (Artificial Intelligence Diagnostic Network) helps technicians by interpreting scan data, offering suggestions, and guiding repair decisions.

• 💬 Two-Way Chat Functionality
  Explore the tool’s interactive chat system that allows real-time communication between the technician and the AI, creating a more intuitive and efficient workflow.

• 🚗 Faster, Smarter Diagnostics
  Understand how AI can reduce diagnostic time, improve accuracy, and support techs of all skill levels with complex issues.

• 🔍 Behind the Scenes with Opus IVS
  Steve Etheridge and Jim Fish provide insights into the development process and the company’s vision for the future of diagnostics.

• 🎧 Why This Matters Now
  Ron emphasizes the importance of staying ahead in an evolving industry and why techs need to understand and adopt AI-driven tools.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the automotive repair landscape—starting today.

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Podcast Episode: The Right to Repair—A Farmer’s Fight for Independence
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor

In this powerful episode, Ron Ananian shifts the conversation on the Right to Repair from the garage to the fields, speaking with Jared Wilson, a multi-generation farmer from Missouri. Together, they expose the real-world impact of restrictive repair policies on American agriculture and the broader implications for all of us.

Key Highlights:

• 🚜 A Farmer’s Perspective on Right to Repair
  Jared Wilson shares firsthand how being unable to fix his own John Deere equipment due to proprietary software and locked diagnostics puts his livelihood at risk.

• 🛠️ Dependence on Authorized Dealers
  Without access to necessary tools and software, farmers face:

  • Costly repairs

  • Long delays during peak seasons

  • Operational shutdowns during planting or harvest windows

• 🌾 Beyond Tractors: It’s About Food Security
  The episode makes clear that this isn't just a technical issue—it affects:

  • National food production

  • Economic resilience in rural communities

  • The independence and sustainability of American farming

• ⚖️ Legal and Ethical Questions
  Ron and Jared discuss how corporate control over repair rights raises serious concerns about ownership, fairness, and long-term viability.

• 🔧 A Mechanic Meets a Farmer
  Ron bridges the gap between his world of auto repair and the farmer’s reality, showing how the Right to Repair movement touches nearly every aspect of modern life.

• ❗ A Warning for the Future
  The conversation ends with a sobering question:
  If we lose the right to repair today, what critical systems—agricultural or otherwise—might fail tomorrow?

Listen in to hear how one farmer’s story represents a growing nationwide struggle—and why this fight affects us all.

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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Here's a summary and bullet point breakdown of the call between Eric from Pennsylvania and Ron Ananian on The Car Doctor radio show from April 26, 2025:

🔧 Caller Issue:

• Vehicle: 2013 Chevrolet Suburban LTZ

• Mileage: 230,000 miles

• Engine: Multiple crate engine replacements (current one is 3rd crate engine)

• Main Symptom:

  • Voltage drops from ~14V to 10V during driving, especially on long trips.

  • AC compressor shuts off when voltage drops.

  • Vehicle eventually enters limp mode.

  • Turning headlights on brings voltage back to normal (~14V).

🛠️ Previous Work Done:

• New Alternator and Battery: Both replaced with OEM GM parts (twice).

• Added Ground Wires: Installed by an electrical specialist.

• AFM (Active Fuel Management) Disabled.

• No Aftermarket Parts: Only modification is AFM delete.

🧠 Diagnostic Observations & Suggestions (Ron Ananian):

• Key Question: Is this a headlight-specific circuit issue or a general electrical load problem?

• Blower Fan Test:

  • Blower fan doesn’t resolve the issue like headlights do, suggesting it’s circuit-specific, not general load.

• Electrical Theory:

  • Turning headlights on might bypass GM’s energy-saving mode, stabilizing voltage.

  • Could be a module communication/network issue—one module dropping out could cause system-wide failure.

  • Ron compares it to computers on a network: one fails, the rest follow.

🧪 Further Diagnostic Path Ron Suggests:

• Scan Tool Needed: Check for module communication failures during voltage drop.

• Cluster/Oil Pressure Warning:

  • Oil pressure reads low on dash but is fine on manual gauge.

  • Possible faulty cluster or wiring issue, possibly affecting system behavior.

• Check Bulkhead Connector: Wiring harness going through firewall may be suspect.

• Evaluate What’s Working: Don’t just chase bad parts—establish what’s good (e.g., fuel trims, throttle position, vacuum).

• Disconnect AC Compressor Electrically:

  • See if the issue still occurs with AC unplugged to isolate AC clutch as a cause.

🔁 Next Steps for Eric:

• Determine if AC compressor clutch is affecting the system or just coincidentally shutting off.

• Investigate further with his technician using Ron’s suggestions.

• Call back with updates for continued guidance.

Full episodes of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor also available. 

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.

🎙️ Ron Ananian: The Car Doctor — Episode Recap

Main Topic: The True Cost of Diagnosis & What It Really Takes to Fix Modern Vehicles
Special Note: Catch Ron on WOR Radio (NY) at 9:40 AM, Monday, May 5 to kick off a special series on Dashboard Warning Lights — starting with the infamous Check Engine Light.

🔧 This Week’s Opening Rant: Diagnosis Costs Are No Joke

Ron opens the show addressing a hot topic:

“Why are diagnosis costs so high — and why are people so shocked?”

With today’s vehicles functioning more like rolling computers, diagnosis isn’t a matter of swapping a part or running a quick test. It requires training, tools, and time. As Ron says:

“Have we taken things to an extreme? Maybe. But this is where we are.”

📢 Coming Next Week: Jared Wilson & the Fight for the Right to Repair

Ron previews an upcoming conversation with Jared Wilson, a farmer-turned-activist who’s become a key voice in the Right to Repair movement.

• Jared made national headlines fighting for access to repair his $600,000 farm tractor.

• When it broke mid-harvest, the only option was to tow it to a dealer — risking total crop loss.

• Ron highlights how this battle affects everyone — including the food on your table.

📞 Caller Spotlight: Eric in PA — 2013 Chevy Suburban

Eric shares a bizarre issue with his Suburban:

• After a GM crate engine swap, the voltage drops while driving.

• The A/C shuts off, and the truck goes into limp mode.

• The fix? Turning on the headlights restores the voltage to 14V.

Ron’s take:

• This could be tied to GM’s energy-saving mode, a headlight circuit anomaly, or even a network module failure.

• Suggests digging into:

  • Scan tool data: Are any modules dropping offline?

  • Wiring harness & cluster connections

  • The oil pressure sensor, which might be feeding bad data to the instrument cluster.

  • Rule out any aftermarket electronics or engine swap side effects.

Ron’s philosophy:

“Tell me what’s good. Before we chase ghosts, let’s confirm what’s working.”

📞 Caller: Joe in NJ — 2003 Malibu with Low Miles

Joe scored an '03 Malibu with only 66k miles but had to replace the water pump.
Ron says that’s not shocking for a 22-year-old vehicle. Key tips:

• Test coolant for acidity using litmus strips (basic chemistry flashback!).

• Perform a coolant flush using a machine, not just a drain-and-fill.

• Stick with DEX-COOL (modern versions have resolved early issues).

• Brands like PEAK are a good choice.

📧 Listener Email: Bob in SC — 1996 Ford F-150 Transmission

Bob’s E4OD reman transmission:

• Intermittently slams into reverse, loses all gears, and sometimes resets by cycling the key.

• Ron suspects a possible control or electrical issue, but with a nearly 30-year-old truck, it's also about parts availability.

• Advice:

  • Consider another reman while parts are still available.

  • Or bench it and inspect — especially if this isn’t your only vehicle.

🧠 Ron’s Final Thought:

“You’re not driving a car — you’re driving a computer on four wheels.”
Diagnostics today are about interpreting networks, modules, and signals, not just checking spark and fuel.

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.