Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - December 6, 2025 - Hour 1 - (855)560-9900 - Full Moon Auto Mechanics & The Repairs It Creates
About this episode
Ron Ananian shares stories from a particularly chaotic week at his auto repair shop, highlighting the challenges and surprises that come with car repairs during a full moon. He recounts encounters with customers like Steven, who neglected his aging Cadillac, and Michael, whose Jeep required extensive work after years of neglect. The episode emphasizes the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and building trust between mechanics and customers, while also showcasing the humorous and frustrating moments that arise in the world of auto repair.
Full Moon Mechanics: Walk-Ins, Walkers & Why That “Noise” Wasn’t the Car
This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron takes you inside one of those “full-moon” stretches in the shop—when walk-ins, overdue maintenance, and stacked schedules all hit at once. A routine checklist on Michael’s Jeep Compass turns into a full safety catch-up: dry-rotted tires, a worn control arm, driveline fluids, alignment, and more. And the mysterious “clunk” Michael swears wasn’t there before? It turns out to be his walker tapping the door—proof that not every noise comes from the vehicle.
Ron also tackles listener calls, including a Yukon with intermittent TCM/PCM communication faults, a ’94 Chevy with a hot-soak slow crank, and the truth about idling a diesel. He closes with advice for retirees choosing their next long-term vehicle—Pilots, Tahoes, Yukons, Lexus “brick” SUVs, and what really matters when you’re buying the car you plan to live with for years.
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Lexus ES 350
"He was in the process of dropping off his 2011 ES 350 Lexus with more than a few miles on it."
The Lexus ES 350 is a comfortable and reliable luxury car. The 2011 version is known for its smooth driving and nice interior.
The Lexus ES 350 is a luxury sedan known for its comfort and reliability. The 2011 model features a smooth ride and a well-appointed interior, making it popular among buyers looking for a premium experience.
parking brake cable
"And the right rear parking brake cable had failed."
The parking brake cable helps keep the car from rolling when parked. If it breaks, the parking brake might not work.
The parking brake cable is a crucial component that connects the parking brake lever to the brake mechanism. If it fails, it can prevent the parking brake from engaging properly, leading to safety issues.
rear brake overhaul
"and it's becoming slowly a rear brake overhaul"
A rear brake overhaul means fixing or replacing parts of the back brakes when they are worn out or broken.
A rear brake overhaul involves replacing or repairing components of the rear braking system, including pads, rotors, and possibly calipers. This is necessary when the brakes are worn or damaged.
Jeep Compass
"...was Michael's Jeep. Michael brought us his 2015 Jeep Compass. Now, we haven't seen Michael's Jeep in two years."
The Jeep Compass is a small SUV that is good for driving around town and can handle some rough roads. It's designed for people who want a vehicle that can do a bit of everything.
The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that offers a blend of off-road capability and everyday practicality. It features a comfortable interior and a range of engine options, making it suitable for both city driving and light off-road adventures.
60,000 mile service
"...was due for the 60,000 mile service. It was overdue for the 60,000 mile service that wasn't done at 60,000 miles because it now has 74,000 miles on it."
A 60,000 mile service is a routine check-up for cars that helps keep them running smoothly. It usually involves looking at important parts and changing fluids to prevent problems.
The 60,000 mile service is a scheduled maintenance check for vehicles, typically involving inspections and replacements of various components to ensure the vehicle remains in good working condition. This service often includes changing fluids, inspecting brakes, and checking belts and hoses.
dry rotted tires
"...tires that were so badly dry rotted into the tread that you wonder is it gonna make it down to the corner? And I'm probably over exaggerating..."
Dry rotted tires are old tires that have cracked and become weak. They can be dangerous because they might not grip the road well or could burst while driving.
Dry rotting refers to the deterioration of tires due to age and environmental factors, leading to cracks and loss of structural integrity. This condition can significantly affect a tire's performance and safety on the road.
control arm
"...the right front control arm, the ball joint was bad and the bushings were cracked in the back of it."
A control arm is a part of the car's suspension that helps keep the wheels in the right position while driving. If it's damaged, it can affect how the car handles and rides.
The control arm is a crucial component of a vehicle's suspension system, connecting the wheel hub to the vehicle's frame. It allows for controlled movement of the wheels during driving and helps maintain proper alignment.
bushings
"...the right front control arm, the ball joint was bad and the bushings were cracked in the back of it."
Bushings are small rubber parts that help reduce noise and vibrations in the car's suspension. If they are cracked or worn out, it can lead to a rougher ride.
Bushings are rubber or polyurethane components that cushion and reduce friction between moving parts in the suspension system. They help absorb shocks and vibrations, contributing to a smoother ride.
ball joint
"...the right front control arm, the ball joint was bad and the bushings were cracked in the back of it."
A ball joint is a part that helps the car's wheels move up and down and turn. If it's worn out, it can cause problems with steering and suspension.
A ball joint is a flexible connection in the suspension system that allows for movement in multiple directions. It connects the control arm to the steering knuckle and is essential for smooth steering and suspension travel.
tire pressure sensors
"...We made a couple of executive decisions. We changed a few of the tire pressure sensors because two had gone bad..."
Tire pressure sensors are devices that check how much air is in your tires. If the pressure is too low, they let you know so you can fix it before it becomes a problem.
Tire pressure sensors monitor the air pressure inside tires and alert the driver if the pressure is too low, which can affect vehicle safety and performance.
wheel bearing
"...that I noticed that there is a very faint noise from what I believe is the right rear wheel bearing coming up. I said, it's very hard to detect."
A wheel bearing helps the wheels turn smoothly. If it's damaged or worn out, it can make noise and cause problems with how the car drives.
A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls or rollers that allow the wheel to spin smoothly. They are crucial for the vehicle's performance and safety, as they support the weight of the vehicle and enable the wheels to rotate with minimal friction.
GMC Yukon
"So this O8 GMC Yukon XL comes in yesterday. It's got a misfire on cylinder four."
The GMC Yukon XL is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and cargo. It's great for families or anyone who needs extra space.
The GMC Yukon XL is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and powerful performance. It's often used for family transport and towing due to its large size and capabilities.
GMC Yukon XL
"...'m having a full moon weekend too. So this O8 GMC Yukon XL comes in yesterday. It's got a misfire on cylinde..."
The GMC Yukon XL is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's similar to the Chevrolet Tahoe but offers more space, making it perfect for big families or trips where you need to carry a lot of gear.
The GMC Yukon XL is an extended version of the Yukon, offering even more space for passengers and cargo. It is significant for its luxury features and strong performance, making it a popular choice for families and those needing extra room.
misfire
"It's got a misfire on cylinder four."
A misfire happens when an engine's cylinder doesn't work right, which can make the car run poorly. It can be caused by problems with the spark plugs or fuel.
A misfire occurs when one or more cylinders in an engine fail to fire properly, leading to a loss of power and efficiency. This can be caused by issues with the ignition system, fuel delivery, or engine compression.
engine cover
"So I wrestled the engine cover out from between the engine and the firewall. And I'm about to swap coils when I discover that the number four coil wire has fallen off the plug."
The engine cover is a part that sits on top of the engine to protect it and make the car look nicer. It helps keep dirt out and can make the engine quieter.
The engine cover is a protective component that shields the engine from dirt and debris while also providing a cleaner appearance. It can also help reduce noise from the engine.
coil wire
"And I'm about to swap coils when I discover that the number four coil wire has fallen off the plug. Well, there you go."
The coil wire is a wire that connects a part called the ignition coil to the spark plug. It sends electricity to help start the engine. If it comes loose, the engine might not run properly.
A coil wire connects the ignition coil to the spark plug, delivering the electrical current needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine's cylinders. If it becomes disconnected, it can cause engine misfires.
TCM
"Could you see the TCM? Yes. So it was there. So it's an intermittent. Well, at the same time, to the TCM, the TCM wasn't talking to the engine, to the ECM."
The TCM is like the brain for the car's transmission, helping it decide when to shift gears. It needs to talk to other parts of the car to work properly.
The TCM, or Transmission Control Module, is an electronic component that manages the transmission's operation in a vehicle. It communicates with other modules, such as the ECM, to ensure optimal performance and shifting of the transmission.
ECM
"the TCM wasn't talking to the engine, to the ECM. How do you know that? Just from the codes."
The ECM is like the engine's computer, making sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. It helps control how much fuel goes into the engine and when to ignite it.
The ECM, or Engine Control Module, is the computer that controls the engine's functions, including fuel injection, ignition timing, and emissions control. It plays a crucial role in the overall performance and efficiency of the vehicle.
ALDL connector
"Do you have one of those ALDL connectors where you can sit there, plug it in at the OBD2 connector, and look at data communication and CANBUS communication?"
An ALDL connector is a plug used in some cars to connect a computer that helps check for problems in the vehicle. It helps mechanics understand what's wrong by reading error codes.
The ALDL (Assembly Line Diagnostic Link) connector is a diagnostic interface used in General Motors vehicles to access onboard computer data. It allows mechanics to connect diagnostic tools to read trouble codes and monitor vehicle performance.
OBD2 connector
"...plug it in at the OBD2 connector, and look at data communication and CANBUS communication?"
The OBD2 connector is a standard plug found in most modern cars that allows mechanics to connect a device to check for issues. It helps read important information about how the car is running.
The OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) connector is a standardized interface used in vehicles to connect diagnostic tools for monitoring and troubleshooting vehicle systems. It provides access to the vehicle's computer data, including emissions and performance information.
CANBUS communication
"...and look at data communication and CANBUS communication? Not yet."
CANBUS communication is a system in cars that lets different parts talk to each other. It helps the car's computer manage everything from the engine to the dashboard lights.
CANBUS (Controller Area Network Bus) communication is a vehicle bus standard that allows microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other without a host computer. It is widely used in automotive applications for efficient data transfer between various vehicle systems.
4L60E transmission
"...with a 4.3 V6 4L60E transmission. Got 165,000 miles on it."
This is an automatic transmission that helps the truck change gears smoothly. It's commonly used in many GM vehicles and is known for being reliable.
The 4L60E is a four-speed automatic transmission used in many General Motors vehicles. It is known for its reliability and ability to handle moderate power outputs.
4.3 V6
"...with a 4.3 V6 4L60E transmission. Got 165,000 miles on it."
This is a type of engine with six cylinders that helps the truck run. It's made by General Motors and is known for being powerful yet efficient.
The 4.3 V6 is a six-cylinder engine produced by General Motors, known for its balance of power and efficiency. It's commonly found in various Chevrolet and GMC trucks and vans.
battery load test
"Okay, we started with a battery load test."
This is a test to check if the truck's battery can provide enough power when needed. It's important to see if the battery is still good.
A battery load test measures the battery's ability to provide sufficient power under load conditions. It's a common diagnostic procedure to determine battery health.
ground cable
"However, Ron, the ground cable for this truck and several others in this vintage I've checked, they ground to an aluminum intake manifold."
The ground cable helps complete the electrical circuit in your car. If it's not working well, your car might have trouble starting or its electronics might act strangely.
The ground cable is a crucial component in a vehicle's electrical system, providing a return path for electrical current to the battery. If the ground connection is poor or corroded, it can lead to various electrical issues, including starting problems or erratic behavior of electrical components.
top dead center
"For a zero degree at the top dead center. Now, I did a tune-up, Ron."
Top dead center is when the engine's piston is at its highest point. It's important for setting up the engine's timing correctly.
Top dead center (TDC) refers to the position of the piston in an engine when it is at its highest point in the cylinder. This is a critical reference point for timing the ignition and valve events in the engine cycle.
ignition wires
"So we did plugs, wires, distributor cap and rotor"
Ignition wires connect the spark plugs to the part that creates the spark. They help send electricity to the spark plugs to make the engine work.
Ignition wires, also known as spark plug wires, carry the electrical current from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. They are crucial for delivering the spark needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders.
rotor
"So we did plugs, wires, distributor cap and rotor"
The rotor is a part inside the distributor that helps send electricity to the right spark plug. It makes sure the engine gets the spark at the right time.
The rotor is a component inside the distributor that rotates and directs the electrical current from the ignition coil to the appropriate spark plug. It is essential for the timing of the ignition system in an engine.
spark plugs
"So we did plugs, wires, distributor cap and rotor"
Spark plugs are parts in the engine that create a spark to ignite the fuel. They help the engine run by making sure the fuel burns properly.
Spark plugs are essential components in gasoline engines that ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. They create a spark that starts the combustion process, which powers the engine.
distributor cap
"So we did plugs, wires, distributor cap and rotor"
The distributor cap helps send electricity to the spark plugs in the engine. It makes sure the engine gets the spark it needs to run properly.
The distributor cap is a component of the ignition system that houses the ignition coil and directs high voltage from the coil to the correct cylinder's spark plug at the right time. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the engine runs smoothly.
distributor module
"and the distributor module. This helped an awful lot."
The distributor module helps manage when the engine gets its spark to run properly. It's important for making sure the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
The distributor module is an electronic component in an ignition system that controls the timing of the spark delivered to the engine's cylinders. It plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient engine performance and fuel combustion.
AC Delco branded starter
"check my brand new two-year-old AC Delco branded starter and that checked okay."
An AC Delco branded starter is a part that helps start your car's engine. It's like the battery's helper that gets the engine running when you turn the key.
AC Delco is a well-known brand that produces automotive parts, including starters, which are essential for starting the engine. A starter motor turns the engine over, allowing it to begin the combustion process.
ignition coil
"But I got the original ignition coil in there and that's causing me some concern."
The ignition coil is a part that helps create the spark needed to start the engine. If it's not working well, it can cause problems with how the engine runs.
The ignition coil is a crucial component of the ignition system that transforms the battery's low voltage into the high voltage needed to create a spark in the spark plugs. This spark ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders.
starter voltage
"I've got a flow problem to the starter voltage, current, something along those lines"
Starter voltage is the power needed to get the engine going. If it's low, the engine might turn over slowly or not at all.
Starter voltage refers to the electrical voltage supplied to the starter motor, which is responsible for turning over the engine to start it. Insufficient voltage can lead to slow cranking or failure to start.
Toyota Sprinter
"...n that my mom left me and talked me into buying a Sprinter van. Gotcha, I remember that call, sure."
The Toyota Sprinter is a small car that is known for being dependable and good on gas. It's a practical choice for people who want a reliable vehicle without spending too much money.
The Toyota Sprinter is a compact car that was popular in various markets for its reliability and efficiency. While not as widely known in some regions, it is significant for its practicality and affordability.
Cupra Born
"Cool, I got a two-part question. I was born when I bought the Sprinter van because it's a die..."
The Cupra Born is a new electric car that is designed to be fun to drive while being good for the environment. It's part of a trend where more cars are being made to run on electricity instead of gas.
The Cupra Born is an electric hatchback that represents the performance-oriented side of the Cupra brand, which is a spin-off of SEAT. It is significant as it showcases the shift towards electric vehicles while maintaining sporty performance and design.
Tesla Semi
"..., not to let it idle for a long time. And you see semi trucks all the time idling over the night."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck made for transporting goods. It's important because it uses electricity instead of fuel, which can save money and help the environment.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, aiming to revolutionize the trucking industry with its sustainability and cost efficiency. It is significant as it represents Tesla's entry into the commercial vehicle market, showcasing advancements in electric vehicle technology.
Nissan 2010 Nissan
"...hem two or three years old. Right now she's got a 2010 Nissan Ultima. I've got a 2010 Ford 150."
The Nissan 200 SX is a small sports car that many people like because it's fun to drive and can be modified to go faster. It's a good choice for those who want a sporty car without spending a lot of money.
The Nissan 200 SX is a compact sports car that gained popularity for its performance and tuning potential, especially among car enthusiasts. It is often discussed for its affordability and the fun driving experience it offers.
Ford 150
"...w she's got a 2010 Nissan Ultima. I've got a 2010 Ford 150. We both bought with 45 and 75,000 miles respecti..."
The Ford F-150 is a popular pickup truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being tough and reliable, with plenty of space in the back for tools or gear, making it a great choice for both jobs and family outings.
The Ford F-150 is a highly regarded full-size pickup truck known for its durability, performance, and versatility. It has been one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. for decades, often discussed for its capability in work and recreational settings.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"... go there. Well, we got a Honda Pilot Black Chevy Tahoe GMC Yukon, BMW X or an Audi Q."
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a big family-friendly SUV that has lots of room inside for passengers and cargo. It's great for road trips and can also tow heavy things like trailers, which makes it a favorite for people who need a reliable vehicle for both everyday use and outdoor activities.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and robust performance. It is significant in the automotive market for its versatility, making it a popular choice among families and those needing a capable vehicle for both daily driving and off-road adventures.
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