Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - January 31, 2026 - Hour 1 - Why Car Repairs Cost More and Take Longer
About this episode
Rising repair costs and longer wait times for parts are becoming the norm in the automotive industry, as Ron Ananian discusses the impact of recent bankruptcies among major parts suppliers like First Brands Group. He highlights how tariffs, labor shortages, and the increasing complexity of vehicle electronics are driving up prices and complicating repairs. With many older parts becoming obsolete, vehicle owners must stay proactive about maintenance and build trust with their mechanics to navigate these challenges effectively.
This week, Ron breaks down a story you won’t notice until your car is on the lift: the First Brands Group Chapter 11 bankruptcy and the wind-down of major North American units—impacting familiar names like Autolite and Cardone. Ron explains what this means for parts availability, backorders, rising repair costs, and why “instant gratification” is disappearing from auto repair. Then it’s on to calls: a tire-wear mystery on a Jeep in Maine, plus a Wisconsin listener with a new Chevrolet Silverado asking how to protect a truck that tows hard—DFM, oil choices, fuel quality, and why maintenance beats gadgets. Finally, Ron makes the case for the value of diagnosis with a real-world click-noise story that was misrepaired until the root cause was found.
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cost of parts
"...the cost pressures are rising. In other words, the cost of parts is going up. It's increasing. It's not easing."
The cost of parts is how much you have to pay for car parts when they need to be replaced. This price has been going up lately because of different issues like shipping costs and shortages of materials.
The cost of parts refers to the expenses associated with purchasing replacement or aftermarket components for vehicles. In recent times, this cost has been influenced by various economic factors, including tariffs and supply chain issues.
shipping costs
"...it's large in part because of tariffs, shipping costs, raw materials, there's labor shortages, there's technology demands."
Shipping costs are the money you pay to send products from one place to another. If these costs go up, it can make car parts more expensive.
Shipping costs refer to the expenses incurred when transporting goods, including automotive parts. Rising shipping costs can significantly impact the overall price of parts and vehicles.
tariffs
"...it's large in part because of tariffs, shipping costs, raw materials, there's labor shortages, there's technology demands."
Tariffs are extra taxes that the government charges on products coming from other countries. When these taxes go up, it can make car parts more expensive.
Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, which can increase the cost of parts for vehicles. These additional costs can affect both manufacturers and consumers, leading to higher prices for automotive components.
labor shortages
"...it's large in part because of tariffs, shipping costs, raw materials, there's labor shortages, there's technology demands."
Labor shortages happen when there aren't enough people to do the jobs that need to be done. This can slow down how quickly car parts are made and can make them more expensive.
Labor shortages occur when there are not enough workers available to meet the demands of a job market. In the automotive industry, this can lead to delays in production and increased costs for parts.
technology demands
"...it's large in part because of tariffs, shipping costs, raw materials, there's labor shortages, there's technology demands."
Technology demands are the need for better and newer technology in making cars. As cars get more advanced, it can cost more to produce them.
Technology demands refer to the increasing need for advanced technology in vehicle production and design. This can drive up costs as manufacturers invest in new technologies and innovations.
raw materials
"...it's large in part because of tariffs, shipping costs, raw materials, there's labor shortages, there's technology demands."
Raw materials are the basic stuff used to make things, like metal or plastic for car parts. If these materials become harder to get or more expensive, it can raise the price of car parts.
Raw materials are the basic substances used to create products, including automotive parts. The availability and cost of these materials can greatly affect production costs in the automotive industry.
sticker shock
"You may get sticker shock. You know, I've seen at the shop, the cost of parts, specific things..."
Sticker shock is when you see a price that is much higher than you thought it would be, making you feel surprised or upset. In car repairs, it means the cost is more than you expected.
Sticker shock refers to the surprise and dismay that consumers feel when they see the price of a product, especially when it is significantly higher than expected. In the automotive context, it often relates to the high costs of vehicle repairs or parts.
brake rotor
"...that $75 rotor, brake rotor, that went to becoming an $85 brake rotor is now $105 brake rotor."
A brake rotor is a round metal part that helps your car stop when you press the brake pedal. The price of these parts can go up over time, which is what the speaker is mentioning.
A brake rotor is a crucial component of a vehicle's braking system, providing a surface for the brake pads to clamp down on to slow or stop the vehicle. The cost of brake rotors can fluctuate based on demand and availability.
brake pads
"And that's in the last two years, the price of brake pads has gone up."
Brake pads are the parts that push against the round metal pieces (brake rotors) to help your car stop. Their prices can change and go up over time.
Brake pads are the components that press against the brake rotors to create friction and slow down or stop the vehicle. Like rotors, their prices can also increase due to various factors, including material costs and availability.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...for the 15 year old Silverado's because their numbers are declining. So it's a matter of, you know, let's get rid of these parts..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being strong and able to carry heavy loads.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and versatility. It's popular among both consumers and businesses for its towing capacity and range of configurations.
LED lights
"...this one has LED lights. This one has regular lights. This one has HID lights."
LED lights are a modern type of light that uses less energy and lasts longer than regular light bulbs. They're often used in cars for things like headlights and dashboard lights.
LED lights, or Light Emitting Diodes, are a type of lighting technology that is energy-efficient and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. They are increasingly used in automotive lighting for headlights, taillights, and interior lights due to their brightness and efficiency.
HID lights
"...This one has regular lights. This one has HID lights."
HID lights are a special kind of car light that shines very brightly. They work by using electricity to create a spark between two points, which makes the light much brighter than regular bulbs.
HID lights, or High-Intensity Discharge lights, are a type of automotive lighting that produces a bright, white light by creating an electric arc between two electrodes. They are known for their high brightness and are often used in luxury vehicles and performance cars.
waffled
"...we had a car this week that the right rear wheel was waffled. What do I mean by waffled? It was the inner lip..."
When a wheel is described as 'waffled', it means it has become bent or misshapen, which can cause problems when driving. It's important to fix this to keep the car safe and running smoothly.
In automotive terms, 'waffled' refers to a condition where a wheel has deformed or warped, often affecting its structural integrity and performance. This can lead to issues such as vibration or uneven tire wear.
wheel bearing
"...it was creating an issue with the wheel bearing."
A wheel bearing helps the wheels turn smoothly. If the wheel is damaged, it can hurt the bearing, making it harder for the wheel to spin and causing problems.
The wheel bearing is a crucial component that allows the wheel to rotate smoothly around the axle. If the wheel is bent, it can cause misalignment and stress on the wheel bearing, leading to premature wear or failure.
Jeep
"Dave, what's going on with your 17 Jeep?"
Jeep is a brand that makes tough vehicles, especially SUVs. The 2017 Jeep refers to a model made in that year, known for being good for off-road driving.
The Jeep brand is known for its rugged vehicles, particularly in the SUV and off-road segments. The 2017 model year indicates this vehicle is part of a specific generation of Jeep models, which are popular for their durability and off-road capabilities.
Jeep Wrangler
"... If they were the original, uh, uh, Goodyear, uh, Wranglers with the Kevlar, right? And got about, you know,..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough, small SUV that can drive over rough ground and is great for outdoor activities. People love it because it can go places other cars can't, and it's built to handle adventures.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a strong following among outdoor enthusiasts and is often associated with adventure and exploration, making it a popular topic in discussions about vehicles that can handle tough terrains.
Goodyear
"If they were the original, uh, uh, Goodyear, uh, Wranglers with the Kevlar, right?"
Goodyear is a company that makes tires for cars and trucks. They are one of the biggest tire makers in the world.
Goodyear is a well-known American tire manufacturer, recognized for producing a wide range of tires for various vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Wrangler tires
"If they were the original, uh, uh, Goodyear, uh, Wranglers with the Kevlar, right?"
Wrangler tires are a type of tire made by Goodyear that are good for driving on rough roads and off-road. They are often used on trucks and SUVs.
Wrangler tires are a specific line of all-terrain tires produced by Goodyear, designed for off-road and rugged conditions, often used on SUVs and trucks.
Kevlar
"If they were the original, uh, uh, Goodyear, uh, Wranglers with the Kevlar, right?"
Kevlar is a very strong material that is used in things like tires to make them tougher and less likely to get damaged.
Kevlar is a strong synthetic fiber used in various applications, including tires, to enhance durability and resistance to punctures and abrasions.
air pressure
"Um, and I'm pretty, pretty good about keeping the air pressure, you know, like you're supposed to do cold, check them 36 pounds."
Air pressure is how much air is inside your tires. Keeping it at the right level helps your car drive better and keeps the tires from wearing out too quickly.
Air pressure in tires is crucial for optimal performance and safety. It affects handling, tire wear, and fuel efficiency.
Kumho
"I ended up putting on a set of kumos, uh, for the next set of tires. And I got about 24,000 miles out of them."
Kumho is a brand that makes tires for cars. They offer different types of tires for different driving needs.
Kumho is a South Korean tire manufacturer known for producing a range of tires for various vehicles, including performance and all-season tires.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
"...why was this one vehicle? And I, I had a no five grand Cherokee that I've never wore tires like this. I, you kno..."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a larger SUV that is both comfortable and good for driving on rough roads. It's popular with families because it has a lot of space and nice features, making it a great choice for everyday use and adventures.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV that combines luxury with off-road capability. It has been a popular choice for families and adventure seekers alike, offering a comfortable ride and advanced features, making it a common subject in discussions about versatile vehicles.
tire pressure
"...I've never had a vehicle wear tires like this, especially when I was very up on keeping the tire pressures where they should be..."
Tire pressure is how much air is inside your car's tires. Keeping the right amount of air in the tires is important for safe driving and helps the car run better.
Tire pressure refers to the amount of air inside a tire, which is crucial for vehicle safety and performance. Proper tire pressure ensures better fuel efficiency, handling, and tire longevity.
nitrogen in tires
"...that vehicle would have been a great study to put nitrogen in the tires and see if that made a difference. Because nitrogen nitrogen is more of an inert gas and it doesn't respond to temperature change as quickly as normal oxygen."
Nitrogen is a type of gas that can be used to fill tires instead of regular air. It helps keep the tire pressure stable, especially when temperatures change.
Using nitrogen in tires can help maintain tire pressure more consistently compared to regular air. This is because nitrogen is less affected by temperature changes, which can lead to fluctuations in pressure.
alignment
"Uh, no, it never had an alignment because it never wore tires as far as cupping or anything. Well, I don't know if that's a fair statement."
Alignment is how you adjust the wheels of a car so they are straight and not tilted. This helps the tires wear evenly and makes the car easier to drive.
Alignment refers to the adjustment of a vehicle's suspension components to ensure that the wheels are set to the correct angle. Proper alignment helps prevent uneven tire wear and improves handling.
Chevy Silverado 1500
"...I just bought a new to me truck. So 20, 25 Chevy Silverado 1500 with the five three gas engine..."
The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a big truck that can be used for work or fun. It's known for being strong and able to carry heavy loads.
The Chevy Silverado 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its versatility, strong towing capabilities, and range of engine options. It's popular among both work and leisure users.
10-speed transmission
"...with the five three gas engine, 10, 10 speed transmission..."
A 10-speed transmission is a system in the truck that helps it change gears smoothly. More gears can make the truck drive better and save fuel.
A 10-speed transmission provides a wider range of gear ratios, allowing for better acceleration and fuel efficiency compared to traditional transmissions. It enhances the driving experience by optimizing power delivery.
5.3 gas engine
"...with the five three gas engine, 10, 10 speed transmission..."
The 5.3 gas engine is a type of motor in the truck that helps it run. It's powerful enough to pull heavy things but also good for regular driving.
The 5.3 gas engine is a V8 engine option available in the Chevy Silverado 1500, known for its balance of power and efficiency. It's suitable for both towing and everyday driving.
Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM)
"...what Dean's talking about is dynamic fuel management is that the dropping out of cylinders under various conditions."
Dynamic Fuel Management is a system that helps save fuel by turning off some of the engine's cylinders when they're not needed. This makes the car use less gas when you're driving lightly.
Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) is a technology used by General Motors in some of their engines that allows for variable cylinder deactivation. This means that the engine can deactivate certain cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel efficiency.
Active Fuel Management (AFM)
"...and I'm running across a lot of, you know, uh, information regarding the DFM on these engines that GM's kind of had issues with them under the AFM system..."
Active Fuel Management is a system that helps cars save fuel by turning off some of the engine's cylinders when they're not needed. It's an older version of this technology and has had some problems in the past.
Active Fuel Management (AFM) is an earlier version of cylinder deactivation technology used by General Motors. It allows the engine to deactivate half of its cylinders under certain conditions to enhance fuel economy, but it has been known to have some reliability issues compared to newer systems like DFM.
2022 Silverado 2500
"...that I'm the owner of a 2022 2500 Silverado, affectionately here on the radio showing in my life called the plow truck, right?"
The 2022 Silverado 2500 is a big truck made by Chevrolet. It's great for carrying heavy loads and has a lot of space inside, making it useful for work or everyday driving.
The 2022 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its strong towing capabilities, spacious interior, and various engine options. It is often used for both work and personal purposes, making it a versatile choice for truck enthusiasts.
six-speed transmission
"That Silverado has a six, six and a six speed. Now, the precursor to that was my 2019 Silverado 2500 that was a six, oh, and I also believe, I think, I think that was a six speed also."
A six-speed transmission is a system in a car that helps it change gears smoothly. Having six speeds means it can adjust better to different driving conditions, making it more efficient.
A six-speed transmission refers to a type of automatic or manual gearbox that has six distinct gear ratios. This allows for better fuel efficiency and performance compared to transmissions with fewer gears.
dexos
"So you need to use an oil that's specifically rated for that vehicle. A dexos brand, a dexos additive rated oil."
Dexos is a type of engine oil that General Motors recommends for their cars. It helps keep the engine running smoothly and protects it from damage.
Dexos is a specification created by General Motors for engine oils that meet certain performance standards. It ensures that the oil provides optimal protection and performance for GM vehicles.
Honda Accord
"...k engine light related issue. We had an 05 Honda Accord came into the shop this week and the customer had..."
The Honda Accord is a popular car that people like because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage. It's also roomy inside, which makes it a great choice for families or anyone who needs a comfortable ride.
The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It has been a best-seller for decades, often discussed for its balance of performance and comfort, making it a staple in the automotive market.
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