{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - December 13, 2025 - Hour 2 - Stalling Toyotas, Seat-Track Headaches, and Torque Converter Lockup Blues","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/ron-ananian-the-car-doctor-december-13-2025-hour-2-stalling-toyotas-seat-track-headaches-and-torque-converter-lockup-blues","audioUrl":"https://podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/pscrb.fm/rss/p/traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/23b3ebcc-d509-4d04-8003-ae32006cd9bb/c889ccaf-97b8-406f-9054-b3b2016c4987/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=6079d671-6a0e-4c7c-bb47-ae32006cd9c9","description":"This hour on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron kicks things off with a holiday giveaway—Car Doctor “hot cocoa” coffee mugs for callers—then dives straight into a stack of real-world problems. Paul in New Hampshire calls about a ’92 Toyota Tercel that occasionally stumbles and stalls after idling; Ron walks through a practical diagnostic path that points toward throttle body/TPS switch strategy and why a lab scope is the fastest way to catch an intermittent glitch. Jim follows with a power seat track alignment issue after a cushion repair—Ron explains why “they built it at the factory, so there’s a way to re-index it,” and asks for the VIN to dig up the procedure. Jeff in Oregon brings a ’95 Dodge Cummins with torque converter lock/unlock hunting; Ron outlines key inputs like brake switch activity and TPS ground noise, and why “more grounds rarely hurts.” Brad in Iowa rounds it out with a scary ABS event that won’t release the pedal on an ’09 Fusion—Ron suggests isolating the system by unplugging the ABS module to prove what’s good and narrow what’s bad. Ron also drops a shop-life reality check on the “snowball repair”—when a simple oil change turns into two days—plus a quick talk about young techs, presentation, and parents getting kids’ cars ready for holiday travel.  Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com  Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes   Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel   Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900   Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern        See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information."},"annotations":[{"startTime":269.8,"endTime":276.2,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Tracell","quote":"What's going on? 92 Toyota Tracell, a three-speed auto with drive two and low, 137,000 miles on it.","canonicalId":"car:toyota-tracell","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Tracell is a compact car that was produced in the early 1990s, known for its reliability and efficiency. It features a three-speed automatic transmission, which is less common in modern vehicles that typically have more gears for better performance and fuel economy.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Tracell is a small car made by Toyota in the early '90s. It has a simple three-speed automatic transmission, which means it has three different gears to help it drive efficiently."}},{"startTime":309.3,"endTime":313.4,"type":"term","title":"stumble","url":"/glossary/stumble","quote":"And sometimes I step on the gas, it starts to stumble. And if I further the gas pedal, it'll catch...","canonicalId":"term:stumble","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"In automotive terms, 'stumble' refers to a momentary loss of power or hesitation in engine performance, often caused by fuel delivery issues or ignition problems.","simplifiedExplanation":"When a car 'stumbles', it means the engine isn't running smoothly and may hesitate or lose power for a moment. This can happen for various reasons, like not getting enough fuel."}},{"startTime":316.2,"endTime":318.2,"type":"term","title":"stall","url":"/glossary/stall","quote":"...and sometimes it'll stall. Okay.","canonicalId":"term:stall","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A 'stall' occurs when an engine unexpectedly shuts off, often due to insufficient fuel, air, or spark. This can happen at idle or during acceleration.","simplifiedExplanation":"When a car 'stalls', it suddenly stops running. This can happen if the engine isn't getting enough fuel or air, or if there's a problem with the spark that ignites the fuel."}},{"startTime":327.0,"endTime":330.88,"type":"term","title":"flood","url":"/glossary/flood","quote":"So it starts to flood, in a sense.","canonicalId":"term:flood","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"'Flooding' an engine refers to a condition where too much fuel enters the engine, making it difficult to start. This often happens when the throttle is pressed too much during starting.","simplifiedExplanation":"When an engine is 'flooded', it means there's too much fuel in it, which can make it hard to start. It's like trying to start a fire with too much water on it."}},{"startTime":330.9,"endTime":333.3,"type":"term","title":"carburetor","url":"/glossary/carburetor","quote":"It's like as if you were driving a carburetor vehicle it flooded out. Well, it has that feeling, yeah.","canonicalId":"term:carburetor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A carburetor is a device in an internal combustion engine that mixes air with a fine spray of liquid fuel. It was commonly used in older vehicles before fuel injection systems became the standard.","simplifiedExplanation":"A carburetor helps engines get the right mix of air and fuel to run. It's mostly found in older cars, as newer ones use a different system called fuel injection."}},{"startTime":365.2,"endTime":367.4,"type":"part","title":"distributor cap","url":"/glossary/distributor-cap","quote":"...I put a new distributor cap and wires in it. All right, when you were inside the distributor...","canonicalId":"part:distributor-cap","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The distributor cap is a component of the ignition system in an internal combustion engine. It houses the terminals that distribute high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs, ensuring that the engine fires correctly.","simplifiedExplanation":"The distributor cap is a part of the engine's ignition system. It helps send electricity to the spark plugs, which is necessary for the engine to run."}},{"startTime":365.2,"endTime":367.4,"type":"part","title":"ignition wires","url":"/glossary/ignition-wires","quote":"...I put a new distributor cap and wires in it. All right, when you were inside the distributor...","canonicalId":"part:ignition-wires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Ignition wires, also known as spark plug wires, carry electrical current from the distributor cap to the spark plugs. They are crucial for delivering the spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ignition wires are the cables that connect the distributor cap to the spark plugs. They help send electricity to the spark plugs to make the engine work."}},{"startTime":434.2,"endTime":436.4,"type":"part","title":"throttle body","url":"/glossary/throttle-body","quote":"Could we have a dirty throttle body?","canonicalId":"part:throttle-body","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The throttle body is a component of the air intake system in an internal combustion engine. It regulates the amount of air that enters the engine, which is crucial for controlling engine power and efficiency. A dirty throttle body can lead to performance issues, such as rough idling or stalling.","simplifiedExplanation":"The throttle body controls how much air gets into the engine. If it's dirty, it can cause problems like the engine not running smoothly."}},{"startTime":436.4,"endTime":441.0,"type":"part","title":"throttle position sensor","url":"/glossary/throttle-position-sensor","quote":"Could we have a faulty intermittent throttle position sensor switch? Because I believe in 92 it was a combination of switch and sensor...","canonicalId":"part:throttle-position-sensor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The throttle position sensor (TPS) is a critical component in modern vehicles that monitors the position of the throttle valve. It sends this information to the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the fuel-air mixture for optimal engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"A throttle position sensor helps the car's computer know how much you're pressing the gas pedal. This helps the engine run smoothly by adjusting the fuel and air mixture."}},{"startTime":529.4,"endTime":531.7,"type":"term","title":"injector cleaning","url":"/glossary/injector-cleaning","quote":"...have you ever done a formal hookup to the rail injector cleaning? I have it done at a garage, they have done that.","canonicalId":"term:injector-cleaning","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Injector cleaning is a maintenance procedure that involves cleaning the fuel injectors to ensure they are delivering fuel efficiently and effectively. This can help improve engine performance and fuel economy.","simplifiedExplanation":"Injector cleaning is when mechanics clean the parts that spray fuel into the engine. This helps the engine run better and use fuel more efficiently."}},{"startTime":534.9,"endTime":538.6,"type":"term","title":"intake valves","url":"/glossary/intake-valves","quote":"...and then have we looked at the intake valves with a bore scope, just how dirty is everything?","canonicalId":"term:intake-valves","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Intake valves are components in an engine that open to allow air and fuel to enter the combustion chamber. Keeping them clean is important for optimal engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Intake valves are parts of the engine that let air and fuel in. If they get dirty, the engine might not work as well."}},{"startTime":547.7,"endTime":549.0,"type":"term","title":"fuel delivery issue","url":"/glossary/fuel-delivery-issue","quote":"...we've got weak spark or a fuel delivery issue.","canonicalId":"term:fuel-delivery-issue","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A fuel delivery issue refers to problems in the system that delivers fuel to the engine, which can affect performance and efficiency. This can include clogged fuel filters, failing fuel pumps, or issues with fuel injectors.","simplifiedExplanation":"A fuel delivery issue means there's a problem with how fuel gets to the engine. If it's not getting enough fuel, the engine won't run well."}},{"startTime":721.6,"endTime":724.6,"type":"part","title":"throttle switch","url":"/glossary/throttle-switch","quote":"...But I would definitely be watching that throttle switch and I would hopefully try and get something original from Toyota...","canonicalId":"part:throttle-switch","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A throttle switch is a component that monitors the position of the throttle in an engine, which helps control the air-fuel mixture and engine performance. It plays a crucial role in the engine management system, affecting acceleration and fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"The throttle switch helps the engine know how much air is coming in, which is important for making the car run smoothly and efficiently. If it doesn't work right, the car might not accelerate properly."}},{"startTime":727.0,"endTime":729.7,"type":"company","title":"Toyota","url":"/glossary/toyota","quote":"...hopefully try and get something original from Toyota, if not, go take a look and see what standard has in their catalog.","canonicalId":"company:toyota","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Toyota is a well-known automotive manufacturer based in Japan, recognized for producing reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles. The brand has a strong reputation for quality and innovation in the automotive industry.","simplifiedExplanation":"Toyota is a car company that makes many popular vehicles, known for being dependable and long-lasting. They are one of the biggest car manufacturers in the world."}},{"startTime":732.24,"endTime":734.1,"type":"company","title":"Standard Motor Products","url":"/glossary/standard-motor-products","quote":"Standard motor products. I would trust something from them as long as they've been around them for what they're doing.","canonicalId":"company:standard-motor-products","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Standard Motor Products is a manufacturer of automotive replacement parts, known for producing a variety of components including electrical parts and engine management systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"Standard Motor Products makes parts that help cars run better. They are trusted by many mechanics and car enthusiasts."}},{"startTime":1083.8,"endTime":1085.8,"type":"part","title":"seat tracks","url":"/glossary/seat-tracks","quote":"...the tracks that the seat bolts to, and the tracks that bolt to the floor of the car, don't line up.","canonicalId":"part:seat-tracks","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Seat tracks are the components that allow the car seat to slide forward and backward. They are essential for adjusting the position of the seat for driver and passenger comfort.","simplifiedExplanation":"Seat tracks are metal parts that hold the car seat in place and let you move it back and forth. They help you find a comfortable driving position."}},{"startTime":1158.8,"endTime":1159.8,"type":"brand","title":"Saab","url":"/glossary/saab","quote":"I don't care if it's a sob. I don't care if it's a Cadillac.","canonicalId":"brand:saab","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Saab was a Swedish automobile manufacturer known for its innovative designs and turbocharged engines. The brand has a loyal following, especially among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique engineering.","simplifiedExplanation":"Saab is a car brand from Sweden that made unique and stylish cars. They are known for being different from other brands."}},{"startTime":1159.8,"endTime":1160.8,"type":"brand","title":"Cadillac","url":"/glossary/cadillac","quote":"I don't care if it's a sob. I don't care if it's a Cadillac.","canonicalId":"brand:cadillac","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Cadillac is a luxury vehicle division of General Motors, known for its high-end cars and innovative technology. It has a long history of producing elegant and powerful vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Cadillac is a well-known American luxury car brand that makes fancy cars with lots of features. They are often seen as a symbol of luxury."}},{"startTime":1160.8,"endTime":1162.8,"type":"brand","title":"Hudson","url":"/glossary/hudson","quote":"I don't care if it's a Cadillac. I don't care if it's a Hudson.","canonicalId":"brand:hudson","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Hudson was an American automobile manufacturer known for its innovative designs and performance vehicles in the early to mid-20th century. The brand is now defunct but is remembered for its contributions to automotive history.","simplifiedExplanation":"Hudson was a car brand in the United States that made cars a long time ago. They are not around anymore, but they were known for some interesting designs."}},{"startTime":1347.8,"endTime":1350.8,"type":"term","title":"VIN","url":"/glossary/vin","quote":"...with a 17-digit VIN. And I'll get you some information.","canonicalId":"term:vin","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number, is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. It serves as a fingerprint for the car, providing information about its make, model, year, and place of manufacture.","simplifiedExplanation":"A VIN is like a car's ID number. It's a special code that helps identify a specific vehicle and can tell you important details about it."}},{"startTime":1403.8,"endTime":1405.8,"type":"term","title":"oil change","url":"/glossary/oil-change","quote":"...it needed four tires and an oil change, and then all of a sudden it needed inner tie rod ends.","canonicalId":"term:oil-change","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure that involves replacing the old engine oil with new oil and often replacing the oil filter. This helps keep the engine running smoothly and prolongs its life.","simplifiedExplanation":"An oil change is when you replace the old oil in the car's engine with new oil. It's important for keeping the engine healthy and running well."}},{"startTime":1405.8,"endTime":1407.8,"type":"part","title":"inner tie rod ends","url":"/glossary/inner-tie-rod-ends","quote":"...it needed inner tie rod ends. It needed filters. All of a sudden it needed a bunch of other service.","canonicalId":"part:inner-tie-rod-ends","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Inner tie rod ends are components of a vehicle's steering system that connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle. They play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment and steering response.","simplifiedExplanation":"Inner tie rod ends help connect the steering wheel to the wheels of the car, allowing you to steer. If they wear out, it can affect how well the car drives straight or turns."}},{"startTime":2510.74,"endTime":2512.94,"type":"car","title":"Ford Fusion","url":"/cars/ford/fusion","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d8/2006_Ford_Fusion_--_NHTSA.jpg","quote":"Yes, Ron. I got a 2009 Fusion that has ABS issues.","canonicalId":"car:ford:fusion","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Fusion is a midsize car that was first introduced in 2005. The 2009 model is part of the first generation, known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Fusion is a car made by Ford that is known for being comfortable and having a lot of space inside. The 2009 version is one of the earlier models of this car.","imageAttribution":"U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":2519.4,"endTime":2522.9,"type":"term","title":"ABS","url":"/glossary/abs","quote":"Yes, Ron. I got a 2009 Fusion that has ABS issues. Whenever there's an ABS event,","canonicalId":"term:abs","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. It is particularly useful in slippery conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"ABS means Anti-lock Braking System. It's a safety feature in cars that helps prevent the wheels from stopping completely when you brake hard, so you can still steer the car."}},{"startTime":2801.0,"endTime":2802.5,"type":"part","title":"brake hose","url":"/glossary/brake-hose","quote":"Do I have a bad brake hose? You'd have to have, you'd have to have like a collapsed brake hose.","canonicalId":"part:brake-hose","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A brake hose is a flexible tube that connects the brake lines to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders. It allows brake fluid to flow from the master cylinder to the brakes, enabling them to function properly.","simplifiedExplanation":"A brake hose is a tube that carries brake fluid to the brakes. If it's damaged or collapsed, it can cause brake problems, like the brakes not working correctly."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"iHeartPodcasts","role":"host"},{"id":"s2","name":"Ron Ananian The Car Doctor","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/ron-ananian-the-car-doctor-december-13-2025-hour-2-stalling-toyotas-seat-track-headaches-and-torque-converter-lockup-blues/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}