{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - January 10, 2026 - Hour 1 - The Best Repair Is Not To Make One","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/ron-ananian-the-car-doctor-january-10-2026-hour-1-the-best-repair-is-not-to-make-one","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/2bbcd3aa-3e6f-4fde-a57a-b3ce01699818/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=6079d671-6a0e-4c7c-bb47-ae32006cd9c9","description":"Sometimes the best repair is the one you don’t make—and Ron explains why with a 2007 Mercury Milan that came in for a simple turn-signal problem. What looked like an easy bulb swap turns into a lesson in modern diagnostics, networked body modules (GEM/SJB), and the harsh reality of obsolete parts and programming limitations. Then Ron takes a call on a 2023 Chrysler Pacifica with an intermittent no-start and a “pop-pop” sound near the battery—plus a hood that wouldn’t even open—raising questions about cable routing, connections, possible prior damage, and whether the van has start/stop with an auxiliary battery. Plus: an F-150 slowly losing coolant with no visible leaks—Ron walks through pressure testing, dye testing, internal vs external loss, and when a sealant strategy may make sense on high-mileage trucks. And for low-mileage drivers wondering when to change oil, Ron stands by his rule: five months or five thousand miles—because an oil change is also a maintenance checkpoint, not just fresh oil.  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":274.84000000000003,"endTime":281.68,"type":"car","title":"Mercury Milan Mercury","url":"/cars/mercury/milan","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/28/2006-2007_Mercury_Milan.jpg","quote":"stepson's 2007 Mercury Milan. Mercury Milan's are an interesting breed for lack of a better way to say it.","canonicalId":"car:mercury:milan","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Mercury Milan is a mid-size sedan that was produced by Ford's Mercury division from 2006 to 2011. It shares its platform with the Ford Fusion and is known for its comfortable ride and decent fuel economy.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Mercury Milan is a car made by the Mercury brand, which was part of Ford. It’s a sedan that was sold from 2006 to 2011 and is similar to the Ford Fusion.","imageAttribution":"IFCAR (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":295.3,"endTime":301.0,"type":"term","title":"obsolete parts","url":"/glossary/obsolete-parts","quote":"...a lot of the parts are just gone like so many cars today. They're parts are just obsolete so I'm always cautious...","canonicalId":"term:obsolete-parts","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Obsolete parts refer to components that are no longer manufactured or available for purchase, making repairs and maintenance difficult for older vehicles. This is a common issue for cars that have been out of production for several years.","simplifiedExplanation":"Obsolete parts are car parts that you can't find anymore because they are no longer made. This can make fixing older cars really hard."}},{"startTime":336.4,"endTime":343.6,"type":"part","title":"rear wheel bearing","url":"/glossary/rear-wheel-bearing","quote":"do your rear wheel bearing so which yeah that's a whole other part of this story about you know","canonicalId":"part:rear-wheel-bearing","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The rear wheel bearing is a crucial component that allows the wheel to rotate smoothly while supporting the weight of the vehicle. It plays a significant role in the overall handling and safety of the car.","simplifiedExplanation":"A rear wheel bearing is a part that helps the wheels turn smoothly. If it's damaged, it can cause noise and make it hard to drive safely."}},{"startTime":349.6,"endTime":355.7,"type":"term","title":"diagnosis","url":"/glossary/diagnosis","quote":"I always start with a diagnosis right and a diagnosis begins in my shop it begins we pull codes","canonicalId":"term:diagnosis","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Diagnosis in automotive repair refers to the process of identifying the cause of a vehicle's malfunction. It typically involves using diagnostic tools and methods to analyze the vehicle's systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"Diagnosis is when a mechanic checks a car to find out what's wrong with it. They use special tools to help them understand the problem."}},{"startTime":363.0,"endTime":369.6,"type":"term","title":"OBD2 port","url":"/glossary/obd2-port","quote":"I'm plugging a diagnostic tool into the OBD2 port the diagnostic port under the dashboard and I'm retrieving fault codes","canonicalId":"term:obd2-port","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The OBD2 port is a standardized diagnostic interface found in most vehicles since 1996. It allows mechanics to connect diagnostic tools to retrieve information about the vehicle's performance and any faults.","simplifiedExplanation":"The OBD2 port is a plug-in point in your car where mechanics can connect tools to check for problems. It helps them understand what's wrong with the vehicle."}},{"startTime":369.6,"endTime":375.9,"type":"term","title":"fault codes","url":"/glossary/fault-codes","quote":"I'm retrieving fault codes I just want to see what's there and I still maintain that this is the right way in the only place in the best place to start","canonicalId":"term:fault-codes","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fault codes are alphanumeric codes generated by a vehicle's onboard computer when it detects a malfunction. These codes help technicians diagnose issues within the vehicle's systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fault codes are special codes that tell mechanics what problems the car's computer has found. They help figure out what's wrong with the car."}},{"startTime":408.5,"endTime":414.7,"type":"term","title":"CAN bus network","url":"/glossary/can-bus-network","quote":"this was real high tech stuff in 2007 and this was one of Ford's early attempts at creating a CAN bus network and they used a it's referred to as the gem module generic","canonicalId":"term:can-bus-network","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A CAN bus network is a communication system used in vehicles that allows various electronic components to communicate with each other. It helps streamline data transfer and improve vehicle functionality by connecting different modules and sensors.","simplifiedExplanation":"A CAN bus network is like a shared communication line in a car that lets different parts talk to each other. This helps the car's systems work together more efficiently."}},{"startTime":414.7,"endTime":421.4,"type":"part","title":"GEM module","url":"/glossary/gem-module","quote":"and they used a it's referred to as the gem module generic electronic module it's also called so it's called a gem module an SJB a smart junction box","canonicalId":"part:gem-module","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The GEM module, or Generic Electronic Module, is a component in vehicles that manages various electronic functions, such as lighting and power distribution. It plays a crucial role in the vehicle's electrical system by coordinating signals from different sensors and switches.","simplifiedExplanation":"The GEM module is a part of the car that helps control things like lights and power. It makes sure everything works together properly in the car's electrical system."}},{"startTime":421.4,"endTime":427.3,"type":"part","title":"SJB (Smart Junction Box)","url":"/glossary/sjb-smart-junction-box","quote":"it's also called so it's called a gem module an SJB a smart junction box or sometimes referred to as a body module","canonicalId":"part:sjb-smart-junction-box","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Smart Junction Box (SJB) is an electronic control unit in vehicles that manages power distribution and communication between various electrical components. It enhances the vehicle's electrical efficiency and reliability by centralizing control functions.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Smart Junction Box is a part of the car that helps manage how power is distributed to different electrical parts. It makes sure everything gets the right amount of power to work properly."}},{"startTime":427.3,"endTime":431.2,"type":"term","title":"body module","url":"/glossary/body-module","quote":"or sometimes referred to as a body module as a matter of fact in the paperwork that I gave Amy at the end the diagnostic printouts","canonicalId":"term:body-module","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A body module is an electronic control unit that manages various functions related to the vehicle's body, such as lighting, door locks, and windows. It plays a vital role in ensuring the proper operation of these features within the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"A body module is a part of the car that controls things related to the car's body, like lights and door locks. It helps make sure these features work correctly."}},{"startTime":472.0,"endTime":478.7,"type":"term","title":"directionals","url":"/glossary/directionals","quote":"and as soon as you engage the directionals the directionals blinked once correctly","canonicalId":"term:directionals","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Directionals, also known as turn signals, are lights on a vehicle that indicate a driver's intention to turn or change lanes. They are essential for safe driving and communication with other road users.","simplifiedExplanation":"Directionals are the blinking lights on a car that show when the driver is turning or changing lanes. They help other drivers know what to expect."}},{"startTime":483.8,"endTime":489.3,"type":"term","title":"light bulb","url":"/glossary/light-bulb","quote":"but the light stayed out and the light was still out when the car left","canonicalId":"term:light-bulb","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"In automotive terms, a light bulb refers to the component that produces light for various functions in a vehicle, such as headlights, taillights, and turn signals. They are crucial for visibility and safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"A light bulb in a car is what makes the lights shine, like the headlights or turn signals. They help you see and let others know what you're doing on the road."}},{"startTime":1040.52,"endTime":1046.8,"type":"car","title":"Chrysler Pacifica","url":"/cars/chrysler/pacifica","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8d/%2707_Chrysler_Pacifica.jpg","quote":"...re chris how can i help you  in your 23 christ or pacifica hi ron thanks for taking my call you're welcome o...","canonicalId":"car:chrysler:pacifica","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, advanced technology features, and family-friendly design. It offers versatility with its Stow 'n Go seating, allowing for easy conversion between passenger and cargo space. The Pacifica is often discussed for its blend of practicality and comfort, making it a top choice for families.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chrysler Pacifica is a family minivan that has lots of room for passengers and their things. It has special seats that can fold down into the floor to create more space when you need it. People talk about it because it's a great option for families who need a reliable and comfortable vehicle.","imageAttribution":"Bull-Doser (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1075.0,"endTime":1080.0,"type":"term","title":"start button","url":"/glossary/start-button","quote":"...when i pushed the start button the car made this electrical popping noise...","canonicalId":"term:start-button","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A start button is a feature in modern vehicles that allows the driver to start the engine with the push of a button instead of using a traditional key. This technology is often part of a keyless entry system, enhancing convenience and security.","simplifiedExplanation":"A start button lets you start the car by pressing a button instead of using a key. It's a common feature in newer cars that makes starting the engine easier."}},{"startTime":1360.9,"endTime":1365.9,"type":"term","title":"battery","url":"/glossary/battery","quote":"...the battery and the dealer let us take it to their service center nearby and they replace the battery a second time after they fix the hood issue right and then...","canonicalId":"term:battery","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The battery in a vehicle provides the electrical power needed to start the engine and run electrical components when the engine is off. A failing battery can lead to starting issues and other electrical problems.","simplifiedExplanation":"The battery is what powers your car when you turn the key. If it's not working, your car won't start or may have electrical problems."}},{"startTime":1418.4,"endTime":1424.4,"type":"term","title":"start-stop technology","url":"/glossary/start-stop-technology","quote":"...does this vehicle have start stop technology but what does that mean when you pull up to a traffic light or a stop sign does the vehicle shut off...","canonicalId":"term:start-stop-technology","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Start-stop technology is a feature in modern vehicles that automatically shuts off the engine when the car comes to a stop, such as at traffic lights, to save fuel and reduce emissions. When the driver releases the brake or accelerates, the engine restarts automatically.","simplifiedExplanation":"Start-stop technology helps save gas by turning off the engine when you're stopped, like at a red light. It turns the engine back on when you need to go again."}},{"startTime":1809.86,"endTime":1812.5,"type":"car","title":"Ford F150","url":"/cars/ford/f-150","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/56/2022_Ford_F-150_Lightning_Rear.jpg","quote":"Hi, I've got a 2011 F-150,","canonicalId":"car:ford:f-150","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and versatility, often used for both work and personal purposes. The 2011 model is part of the twelfth generation of the F-Series, which has been a best-seller in the U.S. for decades.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford F-150 is a popular truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. The 2011 version is part of a long line of F-Series trucks that are known for being tough and reliable.","imageAttribution":"UltraTech66 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1880.6,"endTime":1882.5,"type":"part","title":"head gasket","url":"/glossary/head-gasket","quote":"Is it a CP head gasket? Is it a CP coolant internal passage","canonicalId":"part:head-gasket","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A head gasket is a critical component that seals the engine block and cylinder head, preventing coolant and engine oil from mixing and maintaining compression within the engine. If it fails, it can lead to significant engine damage.","simplifiedExplanation":"The head gasket is a part of the engine that keeps oil and coolant from leaking into each other. If it breaks, it can cause serious problems for the engine."}},{"startTime":1940.5,"endTime":1944.0,"type":"company","title":"K-Seal","url":"/glossary/k-seal","quote":"...something like a K-seal coolant seal additive to see if that stops it? Simple and easy, right? Now, K-seal, if you go to kseal.com...","canonicalId":"company:k-seal","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"K-Seal is a brand of coolant sealant designed to repair leaks in the cooling system of an engine. It works by sealing small leaks and preventing further coolant loss.","simplifiedExplanation":"K-Seal is a product that helps fix leaks in your car's cooling system. It can be added to the coolant to help stop leaks without needing a big repair."}},{"startTime":1955.9,"endTime":1961.1,"type":"term","title":"coolant","url":"/glossary/coolant","quote":"K-seal does have better ability to stop a coolant issue than any other sealer I've ever found on the market.","canonicalId":"term:coolant","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Coolant is a fluid used in vehicles to regulate engine temperature. It absorbs heat from the engine and dissipates it through the radiator, preventing overheating.","simplifiedExplanation":"Coolant is a liquid that helps keep your car's engine from getting too hot. It moves through the engine and radiator to cool things down."}},{"startTime":2055.4,"endTime":2058.1,"type":"part","title":"O-ring connections","url":"/glossary/o-ring-connections","quote":"...There's a lot of O-ring connections that seep coolant and you just won't see it. You know, it'll either clearly hit the ground...","canonicalId":"part:o-ring-connections","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"O-ring connections are seals used in various automotive applications to prevent leaks, particularly in fluid systems like coolant. They are circular rings made of rubber or other materials that fit into grooves to create a tight seal.","simplifiedExplanation":"O-ring connections are rubber rings that help keep fluids, like coolant, from leaking out of pipes and hoses in a vehicle. They fit into grooves and create a seal to stop leaks."}},{"startTime":2140.7,"endTime":2143.4,"type":"term","title":"frame rail","url":"/glossary/frame-rail","quote":"...the one that was dripping into the frame rail and the frame rail captured the small amount of coolant over time until you drove it down the road...","canonicalId":"term:frame-rail","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The frame rail is a structural component of a vehicle's chassis that provides support and rigidity. It runs along the length of the vehicle and can be a critical area for capturing fluids like coolant if there are leaks.","simplifiedExplanation":"The frame rail is a strong part of a car's structure that helps hold everything together. If there's a leak, it can sometimes collect fluids like coolant without you noticing right away."}},{"startTime":2196.7,"endTime":2198.6,"type":"part","title":"catalytic converter","url":"/glossary/catalytic-converter","quote":"...to the catalytic converters if it is internal because catalytic converters and antifreeze don't like each other a whole lot, right?","canonicalId":"part:catalytic-converter","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A catalytic converter is an emissions control device that reduces harmful pollutants in the exhaust gases from an internal combustion engine. It converts toxic gases like carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons into less harmful emissions before they exit the vehicle's exhaust system.","simplifiedExplanation":"A catalytic converter is a part of the car that helps clean up the exhaust gases so that they are less harmful to the environment. It changes bad gases into cleaner ones before they leave the car."}},{"startTime":2532.96,"endTime":2536.78,"type":"car","title":"Hyundai Elantra","url":"/cars/hyundai/elantra","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6d/2017_Hyundai_Elantra%2C_Windsor%2C_Ontario%2C_2025-07-01.jpg","quote":"...he has a 2023 Hyundai Elantra. Actually, first is the summer of 2022...","canonicalId":"car:hyundai:elantra","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern design. The 2023 model features updated technology and safety features, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Hyundai Elantra is a small car that is easy to drive and good on gas. The 2023 version has new tech and safety features that make it a smart choice for many drivers.","imageAttribution":"Crisco 1492 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2542.0,"endTime":2548.0,"type":"term","title":"0W-20 synthetic oil","url":"/glossary/0w-20-synthetic-oil","quote":"...the oil, it requires a 0W-20 synthetic. He changes his oil at regular intervals...","canonicalId":"term:0w-20-synthetic-oil","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"0W-20 synthetic oil is a type of motor oil that has a viscosity rating of 0 in cold temperatures and 20 when hot. It is designed to provide better fuel efficiency and engine protection compared to conventional oils.","simplifiedExplanation":"0W-20 synthetic oil is a special kind of oil used in car engines. It helps the engine run smoothly and saves fuel, especially in cold weather."}},{"startTime":2756.26,"endTime":2758.0,"type":"car","title":"Ford Edge","url":"/cars/ford/edge","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b6/FORD_EDGE_L_%28FORD_EDGE_THIRD_GENERATION%29.jpg","quote":"...time and time again. We had a, what was she driving? A 2018 Ford Edge.","canonicalId":"car:ford:edge","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Edge is a midsize crossover SUV that offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior. It is known for its good handling and available all-wheel drive, making it a popular choice among families.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Edge is a type of SUV that is larger than a car but smaller than a full-size SUV. It has a lot of space for passengers and cargo, making it great for families.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}}],"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-january-10-2026-hour-1-the-best-repair-is-not-to-make-one/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}