{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Check Engine Chuck and Ryan Mullen Talks the State of Auto Repair","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/check-engine-chuck-and-ryan-mullen-talks-the-state-of-auto-repair","audioUrl":"https://media.transistor.fm/1957145d/485919db.mp3","description":"\n        Like the show? Show your support by using our sponsors.Promotive can help you find your dream job. Touch HERE to see open jobs.Need to update your shop systems and software? Try Tekmetric HEREWanna go to Tekmetric's first ever industry training event Tektonic? Register HEREIn this episode, Jeff Compton is joined by Check Engine Chuck and Ryan Mullen for a conversation about the realities of working in automotive diagnostics. Ryan tells the story of being homeless and in addiction to becoming a sought-after diagnostician, emphasizing the importance of networking and community for professional growth. Check Engine Chuck highlights the power of persistence in tackling complex vehicle problems and the need to continually invest in skills and tools. They also talk about shop politics, technician shortages, and the rewards—and challenges—of building a career in the modern auto repair industry.Timestamps:00:00 The Power of Networking07:13 \"Homelessness to Triumph Story\"14:42 Valuing Talent in Industry18:04 Balancing Work and Family Time25:23 DRB3 vs. Y Tech Challenges30:59 \"Frustration, Help, and Connection\"36:37 \"Patent Dispute and YouTube Fallout\"37:18 \"My Tool is the Best\"43:58 \"Discovering His Channel Journey\"49:55 Building Connections Through Snapchat58:33 Addiction, Trauma, and Crime Connection59:17 Changing Perspectives on Redemption01:09:09 \"Duralast Crank Sensor Solution\"01:12:05 Sequoia Airbag Sensor Fix01:19:43 \"Elite Techs Gather at Vision\"01:21:40 \"Adapting Business for Success\"01:28:44 Diagnostic Tech Shortage Crisis01:32:16 \"No Ceiling for You\"\nFollow/Subscribe to the show on social media! TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffcompton7YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheJadedMechanicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091347564232\n      "},"annotations":[{"startTime":639.2,"endTime":642.8,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Highlander","url":"/cars/toyota/highlander","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0b/2008_Toyota_Highlander.jpg","quote":"So we had sent this, I think it was an O4 Highlander, Toyota Highlander out to have the heads redone.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:highlander","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV known for its reliability and family-friendly features. The 2004 model is part of the first generation of Highlanders, which was produced from 2000 to 2007.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Highlander is a type of SUV that is popular for families. The 2004 version is one of the earlier models and is known for being dependable and spacious.","imageAttribution":"IFCAR (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":678.2,"endTime":679.7,"type":"part","title":"timing belt","url":"/glossary/timing-belt","quote":"...they tore the timing belt off this thing like 10 times, tried to line it up. And it still had correlation codes.","canonicalId":"part:timing-belt","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A timing belt is a critical component in an engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. It ensures that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes.","simplifiedExplanation":"The timing belt is a rubber belt in your car's engine that helps keep everything moving in sync. If it breaks, your engine can stop working properly."}},{"startTime":900.88,"endTime":903.52,"type":"car","title":"Toyota FJ Cruiser","url":"/cars/toyota/fj-cruiser","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/11/FJ_Cruiser_2007.jpg","quote":"But like this FJ Cruiser came in with a bunch of ABS codes.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:fj-cruiser","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled SUV that was produced from 2006 to 2014, known for its off-road capabilities and distinctive design.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a type of SUV that looks unique and is built for driving off the road, like on dirt or rocky paths.","imageAttribution":"Stefan Krause, Germany (FAL)"}},{"startTime":905.6,"endTime":908.2,"type":"part","title":"brake booster","url":"/glossary/brake-booster","quote":"That has the ABS module with the master cylinder and the pressure thing and the booster.","canonicalId":"part:brake-booster","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The brake booster is a device that uses vacuum pressure to amplify the force applied to the brake pedal, making it easier to stop the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"The brake booster helps you push the brakes more easily by using air pressure, so you don't have to push hard to stop the car."}},{"startTime":905.6,"endTime":908.2,"type":"term","title":"ABS module","url":"/glossary/abs-module","quote":"That has the ABS module with the master cylinder and the pressure thing and the booster.","canonicalId":"term:abs-module","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The ABS module is a component of the Anti-lock Braking System that helps prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, improving vehicle control and safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"The ABS module is a part of the car's braking system that helps keep the wheels from stopping too quickly, which can help you maintain control while braking."}},{"startTime":905.6,"endTime":908.2,"type":"part","title":"master cylinder","url":"/glossary/master-cylinder","quote":"That has the ABS module with the master cylinder and the pressure thing and the booster.","canonicalId":"part:master-cylinder","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The master cylinder is a crucial part of a vehicle's braking system that converts the force from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure, allowing the brakes to engage.","simplifiedExplanation":"The master cylinder is a part that helps the brakes work by pushing brake fluid through the system when you press the brake pedal."}},{"startTime":928.0,"endTime":929.5,"type":"part","title":"brake light switch","url":"/glossary/brake-light-switch","quote":"...The car needed a brake light switch. It was $20.","canonicalId":"part:brake-light-switch","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A brake light switch is a component that activates the brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed. It is crucial for safety, as it alerts other drivers when a vehicle is slowing down or stopping.","simplifiedExplanation":"The brake light switch is a small part that turns on the brake lights when you press the brake pedal. This helps other drivers know when you're stopping."}},{"startTime":1027.0,"endTime":1028.3,"type":"part","title":"crank sensor","url":"/glossary/crank-sensor","quote":"...scope a crank sensor, see if that's the fault. They would rather they get a crank sensor fault...","canonicalId":"part:crank-sensor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A crank sensor, or crankshaft position sensor, monitors the position and rotational speed of the crankshaft. This information is crucial for the engine control unit (ECU) to manage fuel injection and ignition timing effectively.","simplifiedExplanation":"A crank sensor helps the engine know how fast the crankshaft is spinning and where it is positioned. This is important for making sure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently."}},{"startTime":1285.8,"endTime":1289.1,"type":"term","title":"relay","url":"/glossary/relay","quote":"...It's just a, you know, Ford or Mazda relay, how they stick sometimes and...","canonicalId":"term:relay","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A relay is an electrical switch that uses a small amount of current to control a larger current. In automotive applications, relays are used to activate components like lights, motors, or other electrical systems when a switch is engaged.","simplifiedExplanation":"A relay is like a helper switch that turns on other parts of the car. It uses a little electricity to control bigger parts, like lights or motors, making them work when needed."}},{"startTime":1387.4,"endTime":1388.4,"type":"term","title":"CAN network","url":"/glossary/can-network","quote":"the module or the wire that was causing a disruption, a can network, you know?","canonicalId":"term:can-network","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A CAN network, or Controller Area Network, is a vehicle bus standard that allows microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other without a host computer. It's widely used in automotive applications for connecting various components like sensors and modules.","simplifiedExplanation":"A CAN network is a system in cars that helps different parts talk to each other. It makes sure that things like sensors and controls can work together smoothly."}},{"startTime":1400.0,"endTime":1401.9,"type":"brand","title":"BMW","url":"/glossary/bmw","quote":"I mean, I look, I work on a lot of BMW and Mercedes because that's kind of what I, I mean...","canonicalId":"brand:bmw","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"BMW is a German luxury automobile manufacturer known for its performance-oriented vehicles and sporty driving dynamics.","simplifiedExplanation":"BMW is a car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars, known for being fun to drive and high quality."}},{"startTime":1401.9,"endTime":1403.8,"type":"brand","title":"Mercedes","url":"/glossary/mercedes","quote":"...and Mercedes because that's kind of what I, I mean...","canonicalId":"brand:mercedes","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Mercedes-Benz is a German automotive brand known for its luxury vehicles, high performance, and advanced technology.","simplifiedExplanation":"Mercedes is another car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars, famous for their comfort and technology."}},{"startTime":1430.0,"endTime":1431.4,"type":"part","title":"high pressure fuel pump","url":"/glossary/high-pressure-fuel-pump","quote":"Get a high pressure fuel pump and a tune up in an Audi, the other day.","canonicalId":"part:high-pressure-fuel-pump","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A high pressure fuel pump is a component in a fuel injection system that delivers fuel from the tank to the engine at high pressure. This is essential for proper fuel atomization and combustion in modern engines.","simplifiedExplanation":"A high pressure fuel pump helps send fuel to the engine quickly and at the right pressure, which is important for the engine to run smoothly."}},{"startTime":1431.4,"endTime":1432.7,"type":"brand","title":"Audi","url":"/glossary/audi","quote":"Get a high pressure fuel pump and a tune up in an Audi, the other day.","canonicalId":"brand:audi","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Audi is a German automotive manufacturer known for its luxury vehicles and advanced engineering. The brand is part of the Volkswagen Group and is recognized for its Quattro all-wheel drive system and innovative technology.","simplifiedExplanation":"Audi is a car brand from Germany that makes luxury cars. They are known for their stylish designs and high-tech features."}},{"startTime":1454.2,"endTime":1455.4,"type":"brand","title":"Dodge","url":"/glossary/dodge","quote":"...Anything with a dodge symbol on it or a pickup truck? I'm a happy boy, you know? Just give me Chrysers all day long.","canonicalId":"brand:dodge","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Dodge is an American automotive brand known for its trucks and performance vehicles. It is part of the Stellantis group and has a long history of producing popular models like the Ram pickup and the Charger.","simplifiedExplanation":"Dodge is a car brand that makes trucks and fast cars. They are well-known for their pickup trucks, like the Ram."}},{"startTime":1459.1,"endTime":1460.6,"type":"brand","title":"Chrysler","url":"/glossary/chrysler","quote":"...Just give me Chrysers all day long. I love them.","canonicalId":"brand:chrysler","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Chrysler is an American automobile manufacturer that produces a range of vehicles, including sedans and minivans. It is also part of the Stellantis group and has a reputation for comfort and style in its vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Chrysler is another car brand that makes different types of cars, including family cars and vans. They are known for their comfortable vehicles."}},{"startTime":1468.9,"endTime":1471.6,"type":"car","title":"Dodge DRB3","quote":"Ryan, did you see Chuck's DRB3?","canonicalId":"car:dodge-drb3","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Dodge DRB3 is a performance-oriented vehicle that was part of the Dodge lineup, known for its unique design and features. It is often appreciated by car enthusiasts for its rarity and historical significance.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Dodge DRB3 is a special car from Dodge that some people really like because it's different and not very common. It has some cool features that make it interesting to car fans."}},{"startTime":1478.2,"endTime":1481.2,"type":"car","title":"Dodge DRB2","quote":"I think, Chuck, I've got a DRB2 somewhere in my basement","canonicalId":"car:dodge-drb2","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Dodge DRB2 is an earlier model in the same line as the DRB3, known for its distinctive styling and performance characteristics. Like its successor, it holds a place in automotive history for enthusiasts.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Dodge DRB2 is an older version of the DRB3, and it's also a unique car that some collectors and fans appreciate for its history and design."}},{"startTime":1503.4,"endTime":1505.0,"type":"term","title":"OBD1","url":"/glossary/obd1","quote":"...but yeah, I've struck my memory up. All OBD1 stuff. So it was all DRB1...","canonicalId":"term:obd1","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"OBD1 stands for On-Board Diagnostics version 1, which is an early vehicle diagnostic system used to monitor the performance of the engine and other systems. It allows mechanics to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes to identify issues within the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"OBD1 is a system in cars that helps check if everything is working properly. It can show problems with the engine and other parts so mechanics can fix them."}},{"startTime":1505.0,"endTime":1506.8,"type":"term","title":"DRB1","url":"/glossary/drb1","quote":"...that was the precursor to that was flash codes in the car. You guys probably don't remember those, do you?","canonicalId":"term:drb1","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"DRB1 is a diagnostic tool used primarily by Chrysler to interface with their vehicles' onboard diagnostic systems. It allows technicians to read and clear trouble codes, as well as perform various tests and functions on the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"DRB1 is a special tool that mechanics use to check and fix problems in certain cars, especially those made by Chrysler. It helps them understand what's wrong with the car."}},{"startTime":1519.4,"endTime":1521.5,"type":"car","title":"Toyota 4Runner","url":"/cars/toyota/4runner","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e2/2010_Toyota_4Runner_SR5_--_11-23-2009.jpg","quote":"...from old forerunners to...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:4runner","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has been in production since 1984 and has undergone several generations of updates.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota 4Runner is a type of SUV that is built for both on-road and off-road driving. It's known for being tough and reliable, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.","imageAttribution":"IFCAR (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1529.3,"endTime":1530.4,"type":"company","title":"DRB3","url":"/glossary/drb3","quote":"...I just, I love the DRB3, like when Chuck was showing it to me,...","canonicalId":"company:drb3","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The DRB3 is a diagnostic tool used by automotive technicians to troubleshoot and diagnose issues in Chrysler vehicles. It allows for the reading of trouble codes and performing various tests on the vehicle's systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"The DRB3 is a special tool that mechanics use to check if there are any problems with certain cars, especially those made by Chrysler. It helps them understand what's wrong by reading error codes."}},{"startTime":1595.4,"endTime":1597.4,"type":"car","title":"Mitsubishi Sebring","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/1d/1999_Chrysler_Sebring_LXi_%2823033290671%29.jpg","quote":"...the weird cars like the Sebring built, or sorry, the Mitsubishi built Sebrings. There's a lot of stuff that you can only do with that machine.","canonicalId":"car:mitsubishi-sebring","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Mitsubishi Sebring is a mid-size car that was produced in collaboration with Chrysler. It is known for its unique styling and was part of a platform-sharing arrangement with other Chrysler models.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Mitsubishi Sebring is a car that Mitsubishi made, and it was sold under the Chrysler brand as well. It's a mid-size car that has a distinct look and was made in partnership with Chrysler.","imageAttribution":"Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":2924.8,"endTime":2926.16,"type":"car","title":"Honda That Honda","quote":"and I saw him dealing with that Honda and I was like, oh","canonicalId":"car:honda-that-honda","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda That's is a compact multi-purpose vehicle that was produced by Honda in the 1980s and 1990s. It is notable for its unique design, which combines elements of a van and a hatchback, making it versatile for urban driving and small families. The car might be discussed for its quirky appeal and practicality in tight spaces.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda That's is a small car that looks a bit like a mix between a van and a regular car. It was made a long time ago and is known for being easy to drive in the city because it's small and can fit into tight spots. People might talk about it because it's different and useful."}},{"startTime":4034.2,"endTime":4035.9,"type":"term","title":"ABS units","url":"/glossary/abs-units","quote":"...my buddy who's a BMW tech and they are replacing ABS units like they're going out of...","canonicalId":"term:abs-units","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, which prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. ABS units are the components responsible for this function and can sometimes fail, leading to recalls or replacements.","simplifiedExplanation":"ABS units help your car stop safely by preventing the wheels from locking up when you brake hard. If they fail, it can cause problems with braking, which is why they might need to be replaced."}},{"startTime":4042.0,"endTime":4043.4,"type":"term","title":"Takata airbag recalls","url":"/glossary/takata-airbag-recalls","quote":"I remember the Takata airbag recalls in a Nissan I had them down to where I was","canonicalId":"term:takata-airbag-recalls","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Takata airbag recalls refer to a massive safety recall involving defective airbags manufactured by Takata Corporation. These airbags could deploy explosively, causing serious injuries or fatalities to vehicle occupants.","simplifiedExplanation":"Takata airbags were found to be dangerous because they could explode and hurt people when they deployed. This led to a lot of cars being recalled to fix the problem."}},{"startTime":4157.4,"endTime":4158.6,"type":"part","title":"spark plugs","url":"/glossary/spark-plugs","quote":"...except for someone just going let's get new spark plugs new coils...","canonicalId":"part:spark-plugs","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Spark plugs are critical components in gasoline engines that ignite the air-fuel mixture, enabling the engine to run. They need to be replaced periodically to maintain engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Spark plugs help start the engine by creating a small spark that ignites the fuel. They wear out over time and need to be changed to keep the car running well."}},{"startTime":4158.6,"endTime":4159.4,"type":"part","title":"coils","url":"/glossary/coil","quote":"...new spark plugs new coils new injectors...","canonicalId":"part:coil","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Ignition coils are components that transform the battery's low voltage into the thousands of volts needed to create a spark at the spark plugs. They play a vital role in the ignition system of an engine.","simplifiedExplanation":"Coils help send electricity to the spark plugs to create the spark that starts the engine. If they fail, the engine may not start or run smoothly."}},{"startTime":4159.4,"endTime":4160.2,"type":"part","title":"injectors","url":"/glossary/injectors","quote":"...new coils new injectors a new ECM...","canonicalId":"part:injectors","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel injectors are devices that deliver fuel into the engine's combustion chamber. They are crucial for ensuring the right amount of fuel mixes with air for efficient combustion.","simplifiedExplanation":"Injectors spray fuel into the engine so it can mix with air and burn to create power. If they get clogged or fail, the engine won't run properly."}},{"startTime":4160.2,"endTime":4161.1,"type":"part","title":"ECM","url":"/glossary/ecm","quote":"...a new ECM a new crank sensor...","canonicalId":"part:ecm","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Engine Control Module (ECM) is the computer that manages various engine functions, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control. A faulty ECM can lead to poor engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"The ECM is like the brain of the engine, controlling how it runs. If it doesn't work right, the engine can have problems or not start at all."}},{"startTime":4162.4,"endTime":4163.8,"type":"part","title":"AM sensors","url":"/glossary/am-sensors","quote":"...two new AM sensors...","canonicalId":"part:am-sensors","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"AM sensors, often referring to air mass sensors, measure the amount of air entering the engine. This data is essential for the ECM to adjust the fuel mixture for optimal combustion.","simplifiedExplanation":"AM sensors check how much air is coming into the engine so it can mix the right amount of fuel. If they don't work, the engine can run poorly or inefficiently."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Jeff Compton","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/check-engine-chuck-and-ryan-mullen-talks-the-state-of-auto-repair/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}