{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - January 31, 2026 - Hour 2 - Batteries, Start-Stop Tech, CVTs & Cold-Weather Car Problems","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/ron-ananian-the-car-doctor-january-31-2026-hour-2-batteries-start-stop-tech-cvts-cold-weather-car-problems","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/b4dcccc3-0cdf-42bb-9c38-b3e30169e0bb/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=6079d671-6a0e-4c7c-bb47-ae32006cd9c9","description":"Cold weather exposes weak links in today’s vehicles, and this hour of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor breaks them down. Ron explains why modern car batteries should be replaced every 4–5 years—even if they still test good—and why where you buy a battery matters as much as the warranty. He also dives into start-stop systems and CVT transmissions, explaining how they work, why oil and fluid maintenance is more critical than ever, and what drivers should realistically expect for longevity. Plus, real-world winter diagnostics, including a no-heat-at-idle problem, air-bound cooling systems, and how to diagnose issues step-by-step without guessing. Practical advice, shop-floor experience, and straight talk for anyone keeping a car past the warranty.  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":135.4,"endTime":141.7,"type":"part","title":"AGM battery","url":"/glossary/agm-battery","quote":"...if I'm going to do that, is going to cost me instead of $139, about $250.","canonicalId":"part:agm-battery","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery is a type of lead-acid battery that is designed to be more durable and resistant to vibration, making it suitable for various automotive applications. They have a longer lifespan and can handle deep discharges better than traditional flooded batteries.","simplifiedExplanation":"An AGM battery is a special kind of car battery that lasts longer and is better at handling tough conditions. It's different from regular batteries and is often used in cars that need more power."}},{"startTime":171.2,"endTime":179.2,"type":"term","title":"load test","url":"/glossary/load-test","quote":"...Hey, you know, Micah, listen, your battery passed its load test. Here it is, four years old, it passed the load test. But I'm also going to tell you, but when we get to year five, it's gone...","canonicalId":"term:load-test","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A load test is a procedure used to determine the health of a car battery by applying a load to it and measuring its voltage response. This helps to assess whether the battery can still hold a charge and deliver sufficient power for starting the vehicle and running electrical systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"A load test checks if your car battery is still good by seeing how it performs under pressure. It helps you know if the battery can start your car and power its electronics."}},{"startTime":200.2,"endTime":205.2,"type":"term","title":"alternator","url":"/glossary/alternator","quote":"...as the alternator is charging and running electrical systems and components. And there's there's any excess...","canonicalId":"term:alternator","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An alternator is a crucial component in a vehicle's electrical system that generates electricity to power the car's electrical systems and recharge the battery while the engine is running.","simplifiedExplanation":"The alternator is a part of the car that makes electricity when the engine is on, helping to keep the battery charged and power things like lights and radio."}},{"startTime":259.5,"endTime":265.0,"type":"term","title":"Group 51 battery","url":"/glossary/group-51-battery","quote":"Now, if this was a Honda, a Honda Group 51 battery, and, you know, when we say group size, it's the physical dimension of the battery, it's not necessarily an indication of electrical energy.","canonicalId":"term:group-51-battery","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A Group 51 battery refers to a specific size and type of automotive battery, defined by its physical dimensions rather than its electrical capacity. This classification helps ensure that the battery fits properly in the vehicle's battery compartment.","simplifiedExplanation":"Group 51 batteries are a standard size used in many cars, including some Honda models. Knowing the size helps you find the right replacement battery for your vehicle."}},{"startTime":270.38,"endTime":277.88,"type":"car","title":"Honda That Honda","quote":"...an indication of electrical energy.  But it seems that Honda Group 51s still lead the industry as the most com...","canonicalId":"car:honda-that-honda","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda That's is a compact car produced by Honda, primarily for the Japanese market. Known for its unique design and practicality, it has gained a niche following due to its efficient use of space and fuel economy. It may be discussed in the context of innovative automotive engineering and compact vehicle design.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda That's is a small car made by Honda, mainly sold in Japan. It's designed to be practical and save on fuel, making it a good choice for city driving. People might talk about it because of its interesting shape and how well it uses space."}},{"startTime":358.4,"endTime":363.4,"type":"company","title":"Berryman","url":"/glossary/berryman","quote":"...I bought a six pack of Berryman's B12, which I use every, every four, every three months, four times a year. Am I still okay with that?","canonicalId":"company:berryman","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Berryman is a company known for producing automotive maintenance products, including fuel additives. Their B12 fuel additive is popular for cleaning fuel systems and improving engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Berryman is a brand that makes products to help keep your car's engine running smoothly. One of their products, B12, is used to clean the fuel system."}},{"startTime":377.1,"endTime":381.8,"type":"company","title":"CRC","url":"/glossary/crc","quote":"...And that's why we in the shop, we switched to CRC just because we can't, for whatever reason, in the last eight, nine months, we've lost our source for Berryman...","canonicalId":"company:crc","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"CRC is another company that produces automotive maintenance products, including fuel additives and cleaners. They are often used as alternatives to other brands when supply issues arise.","simplifiedExplanation":"CRC is a brand that also makes products for cars, like cleaners and additives. People might use them when other brands are hard to find."}},{"startTime":536.6,"endTime":541.3,"type":"part","title":"starter","url":"/glossary/starter","quote":"...I mean starters and alternators. The car quest advanced line of rotating electrical has been great. And, you know, there's a reason why I changed....","canonicalId":"part:starter","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation by turning the engine over when the ignition is engaged. It's essential for starting the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"A starter is a part that helps start the engine of the car. When you turn the key, the starter makes the engine begin running."}},{"startTime":683.34,"endTime":687.52,"type":"car","title":"Honda Civic","url":"/cars/honda/civic","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/23/2022_Honda_Civic_LX_Sedan%2C_front_right%2C_11-02-2022.jpg","quote":"...over to Tim in Pennsylvania, 23 Honda Civic. Tim, welcome to the car doctor, sir. How can I help?","canonicalId":"car:honda:civic","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and sporty design. It's a popular choice among drivers looking for a practical yet fun vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it is reliable and good on gas. It's a great option for everyday driving.","imageAttribution":"MercurySable99 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":688.1,"endTime":695.5,"type":"term","title":"CVT","url":"/glossary/cvt","quote":"...a question about some of the new technology like CVTs, you know, the transmissions...","canonicalId":"term:cvt","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, which is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"CVT means Continuously Variable Transmission. It's a special kind of automatic transmission that helps the car use fuel more efficiently and drive smoothly."}},{"startTime":695.5,"endTime":701.4,"type":"term","title":"start-stop system","url":"/glossary/start-stop-system","quote":"...this system that shuts the engine off, you know, when you're sitting at a stop sign or in a red light...","canonicalId":"term:start-stop-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A start-stop system automatically turns off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, such as at a stoplight, and restarts it when the driver releases the brake. This technology helps improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"A start-stop system is a feature in some cars that turns off the engine when you're not moving, like at a red light, and starts it again when you want to go. It helps save gas."}},{"startTime":720.4,"endTime":726.2,"type":"term","title":"variable valve timing","url":"/glossary/variable-valve-timing","quote":"...issues with start, stop in areas that they really weren't expecting primarily on a lot of vehicles with variable valve timing. Now watch this...","canonicalId":"term:variable-valve-timing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Variable valve timing (VVT) is a technology used in internal combustion engines to optimize performance and efficiency by adjusting the timing of the valve openings and closings. This allows the engine to perform better at different RPMs and improves fuel economy.","simplifiedExplanation":"Variable valve timing is a technology in engines that helps them run better and use less fuel by changing when the valves open and close. It makes the car more efficient at different speeds."}},{"startTime":731.1,"endTime":738.8,"type":"term","title":"camshaft","url":"/glossary/cam-shaft","quote":"timing will alter camshaft, crankshaft relationship, right? If we think of a bicycle sprocket, if we put the pedals at a horizontal position...","canonicalId":"term:cam-shaft","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The camshaft is a crucial engine component that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves. It is responsible for regulating the timing of the engine's intake and exhaust cycles, which directly affects engine performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"The camshaft is a part of the engine that helps open and close the valves, allowing air and fuel in and exhaust out. It plays a key role in how well the engine runs."}},{"startTime":765.2,"endTime":774.9,"type":"term","title":"VVT","url":"/glossary/vvt","quote":"that would vary cam timing, VVT, right? So they vary valve timing by using oil, oil pressure and an actuator and a control solenoid...","canonicalId":"term:vvt","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Variable Valve Timing (VVT) is a technology used in internal combustion engines to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions by adjusting the timing of the valve openings and closings. This allows for better engine response and efficiency across different RPM ranges.","simplifiedExplanation":"VVT stands for Variable Valve Timing, which is a system that changes when the engine's valves open and close. This helps the engine perform better and use fuel more efficiently."}},{"startTime":879.3,"endTime":883.8,"type":"company","title":"Arctic Cat","url":"/glossary/arctic-cat","quote":"it was the belt pulley drive system Arctic Cat, I think was the first CVT snowmobile ...","canonicalId":"company:arctic-cat","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Arctic Cat is a manufacturer known for producing snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles. They were one of the first companies to implement CVT technology in their snowmobiles during the 1970s.","simplifiedExplanation":"Arctic Cat is a brand that makes snowmobiles and other outdoor vehicles. They were among the first to use CVT technology in their snowmobiles back in the 1970s."}},{"startTime":913.1,"endTime":918.8,"type":"brand","title":"Subaru","url":"/glossary/subaru","quote":"That's got to say something, right? Actually, actually, I take that back. We had one Subaru we had to do just one, but that still says something, right?","canonicalId":"brand:subaru","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and boxer engines. It has a reputation for producing reliable and versatile cars, often favored by outdoor enthusiasts.","simplifiedExplanation":"Subaru is a car brand from Japan that makes vehicles known for their ability to handle tough weather and terrain. They are popular among people who enjoy outdoor activities."}},{"startTime":952.5,"endTime":957.2,"type":"term","title":"head gasket","url":"/glossary/head-gasket","quote":"...a lot of the four cylinder Civics, a lot of the four cylinder Hondas are the 18s, the 19s are going through head gasket issues.","canonicalId":"term:head-gasket","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The head gasket is a critical component in an engine that seals the cylinder head to the engine block. It prevents coolant and engine oil from mixing and maintains compression within the engine. Failures can lead to serious engine problems.","simplifiedExplanation":"A head gasket is a part of the engine that helps keep everything sealed tight. If it fails, it can cause big problems like overheating or mixing oil and coolant."}},{"startTime":980.7,"endTime":987.1,"type":"term","title":"boost from the turbo","url":"/glossary/boost-from-the-turbo","quote":"...the amount of head gasket material there has shrunk. So, they get hit with boost from the turbo...","canonicalId":"term:boost-from-the-turbo","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Boost from the turbo refers to the increased air pressure created by a turbocharger, which forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber. This allows for more fuel to be burned, resulting in increased power output.","simplifiedExplanation":"A turbocharger is a device that helps an engine get more air, which makes it more powerful. When it adds extra air pressure, it's called 'boost', which can help the engine perform better."}},{"startTime":1137.72,"endTime":1145.52,"type":"car","title":"Ford Flex","url":"/cars/ford/flex","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/41/14_Ford_Flex_Limited.jpg","quote":"Okay, 2010 Ford Fusion, FCE, Front One Drive, the Flex Fuel. I had recently hit it, well, not recently, this summer I had an animal.","canonicalId":"car:ford:flex","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Fusion is a mid-size car that was produced by Ford. It is known for its comfortable ride and good fuel efficiency, especially in its hybrid and Flex Fuel variants.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Fusion is a type of car made by Ford. It's designed to be comfortable and efficient, which means it can save on gas, especially if you get the hybrid version.","imageAttribution":"HJUdall (CC0)"}},{"startTime":1137.72,"endTime":1145.52,"type":"car","title":"Ford Fusion","url":"/cars/ford/fusion","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d8/2006_Ford_Fusion_--_NHTSA.jpg","quote":"...ng?  Yes, sir. Tell me the story. Okay, 2010 Ford Fusion, FCE, Front One Drive, the Flex Fuel.  I had rece...","canonicalId":"car:ford:fusion","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"imageAttribution":"U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1162.1,"endTime":1165.0,"type":"part","title":"transmission","url":"/glossary/transmission","quote":"I ripped out the condenser, ripped out the transmission and broke the transmission bracket...","canonicalId":"part:transmission","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The transmission is a vital component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move. It can be automatic or manual, affecting how the car drives.","simplifiedExplanation":"The transmission is what helps your car change gears and move. If it breaks, your car might not go anywhere."}},{"startTime":1162.1,"endTime":1165.0,"type":"part","title":"condenser","url":"/glossary/condenser","quote":"I ripped out the condenser, ripped out the transmission and broke the transmission bracket...","canonicalId":"part:condenser","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The condenser is a crucial component in the vehicle's air conditioning system. It cools and condenses refrigerant vapor into liquid, allowing the AC system to function properly.","simplifiedExplanation":"The condenser helps cool the air that comes out of your car's air conditioning. If it's not working, the AC won't blow cold air."}},{"startTime":1170.0,"endTime":1175.0,"type":"part","title":"radiator","url":"/glossary/radiator","quote":"So I went to a radiator shop...","canonicalId":"part:radiator","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The radiator is part of the vehicle's cooling system, helping to dissipate heat from the engine coolant to prevent overheating.","simplifiedExplanation":"The radiator helps keep your engine cool by releasing heat. If it fails, your engine can overheat."}},{"startTime":1176.0,"endTime":1180.0,"type":"concept","title":"overheating","url":"/glossary/overheating","quote":"...when I left the car overheated and recently overheated was because they didn't...","canonicalId":"concept:overheating","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Overheating occurs when the engine temperature exceeds safe limits, often due to a lack of coolant or a malfunctioning cooling system. It can lead to severe engine damage.","simplifiedExplanation":"Overheating happens when your engine gets too hot, which can cause serious problems. It's usually because there's not enough coolant or something is broken."}},{"startTime":1210.0,"endTime":1215.0,"type":"term","title":"reservoir tank","url":"/glossary/reservoir-tank","quote":"...the reservoir tank was, so I filled it up...","canonicalId":"term:reservoir-tank","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The reservoir tank holds extra coolant for the engine's cooling system. It allows for expansion and contraction of the coolant as temperatures change.","simplifiedExplanation":"The reservoir tank is where extra coolant is stored. If it's low, your engine might overheat."}},{"startTime":1211.0,"endTime":1215.0,"type":"term","title":"thermostat","url":"/glossary/thermostat","quote":"...tapping on the thermostat and called the radiator shop...","canonicalId":"term:thermostat","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The thermostat regulates the engine's temperature by controlling the flow of coolant. It opens and closes to maintain optimal operating temperature.","simplifiedExplanation":"The thermostat helps keep your engine at the right temperature. If it gets stuck, your engine might overheat or not heat up enough."}},{"startTime":1305.2,"endTime":1314.0,"type":"term","title":"coolant","url":"/glossary/coolant","quote":"...we're going to assume that we've got good coolant flow through the system. Right. So, you know, you, you feel, hoses, the hoses all feel equally warm...","canonicalId":"term:coolant","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Coolant is a fluid used in engines to transfer heat away from the engine and maintain optimal operating temperatures. It prevents overheating and protects against corrosion.","simplifiedExplanation":"Coolant is a special liquid that helps keep your car's engine from getting too hot. It moves heat away from the engine to keep it running smoothly."}},{"startTime":1334.3,"endTime":1340.0,"type":"term","title":"engine temperature","url":"/glossary/engine-temperature","quote":"...Every car, laws of physics don't change. It gets up to 180, 185 degrees and the stat opens or 190 degrees and the stat opens...","canonicalId":"term:engine-temperature","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Engine temperature is the heat level of the engine during operation. Maintaining the correct engine temperature is vital for performance and longevity.","simplifiedExplanation":"Engine temperature is how hot the engine gets when the car is running. It's important for the engine to stay at the right temperature to work well."}},{"startTime":1650.0,"endTime":1654.8,"type":"term","title":"airbound","url":"/glossary/airbound","quote":"...that's an indication of airbound. Sure, that's an indication of airbound because the system's got air in it and you're squeezing some coolant...","canonicalId":"term:airbound","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Airbound refers to a condition in a cooling system where air pockets form, preventing proper circulation of coolant. This can lead to overheating or inadequate cooling of the engine.","simplifiedExplanation":"Airbound means there are air bubbles in the car's cooling system, which can stop the coolant from flowing properly. This can cause the engine to overheat or not cool down as it should."}},{"startTime":1685.0,"endTime":1689.5,"type":"term","title":"water pump","url":"/glossary/water-pump","quote":"...the water pump spins slower and then all of a sudden you get to the point where you're back at idle and now it's cold again.","canonicalId":"term:water-pump","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The water pump is a crucial component of the engine's cooling system that circulates coolant through the engine and radiator. It helps maintain the engine's operating temperature by ensuring proper coolant flow.","simplifiedExplanation":"The water pump is a part of the car that moves coolant around the engine to keep it from getting too hot. It helps the engine stay at the right temperature while driving."}}],"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-31-2026-hour-2-batteries-start-stop-tech-cvts-cold-weather-car-problems/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}