{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - March 7, 2026 - Hour 2 - Looking at the Whole Repair & What’s New with Mitchell Software","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/ron-ananian-the-car-doctor-march-7-2026-hour-2-looking-at-the-whole-repair-what-s-new-with-mitchell-software","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/ee327a5c-c434-4bed-b1b7-b406012e6c9b/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=6079d671-6a0e-4c7c-bb47-ae32006cd9c9","description":"On this episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens the show with a story from the service bay about a recent repair and an important lesson for both technicians and vehicle owners: a good repair means looking at everything related to the problem — not just the obvious failure. From related components to the bigger picture of how the vehicle operates, Ron explains why careful diagnosis and thorough thinking are what turn a basic repair into a complete and reliable fix. Later in the hour, Ron welcomes Tim McDonnell from Mitchell 1 to discuss the latest updates and improvements to Mitchell’s repair and shop management software. They talk about how modern repair information systems are evolving to help shops work smarter, document repairs better, and keep up with the increasing complexity of today’s vehicles. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into doing a repair the right way, or how professional shops manage information and workflow behind the scenes, this hour gives you a look inside the modern service bay. Good mechanics aren’t expensive — they’re priceless.  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":324.6,"endTime":331.2,"type":"part","title":"brake pads","url":"/glossary/brake-pads","quote":"GM parts, he got all GM pads, rotors, calipers, brake hoses, even brought his own brake fluid.","canonicalId":"part:brake-pads","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brake pads are components that press against the brake rotors to create friction and slow down or stop a vehicle. They are a critical part of the braking system and wear out over time.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brake pads are parts that help your car stop by pressing on a spinning disc. They wear down and need to be replaced sometimes."}},{"startTime":324.6,"endTime":331.2,"type":"part","title":"brake hoses","url":"/glossary/brake-hoses","quote":"GM parts, he got all GM pads, rotors, calipers, brake hoses, even brought his own brake fluid.","canonicalId":"part:brake-hoses","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brake hoses are flexible tubes that carry brake fluid from the hard lines to the brake calipers. They must be in good condition to maintain hydraulic pressure in the braking system.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brake hoses are rubber tubes that carry the brake fluid to the parts that stop the car. They need to be strong and not leak."}},{"startTime":324.6,"endTime":331.2,"type":"part","title":"brake calipers","url":"/glossary/brake-calipers","quote":"GM parts, he got all GM pads, rotors, calipers, brake hoses, even brought his own brake fluid.","canonicalId":"part:brake-calipers","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brake calipers are the components that house the brake pads and pistons. They squeeze the pads against the rotors to create the friction needed to slow or stop the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brake calipers are parts that hold the brake pads and push them against the metal discs to stop the car."}},{"startTime":324.6,"endTime":331.2,"type":"part","title":"brake rotors","url":"/glossary/brake-rotors","quote":"GM parts, he got all GM pads, rotors, calipers, brake hoses, even brought his own brake fluid.","canonicalId":"part:brake-rotors","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brake rotors are metal discs attached to the wheels that the brake pads clamp onto to slow or stop the vehicle. They can wear or warp and may require resurfacing or replacement.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brake rotors are round metal discs that your car's brakes press on to help it stop. They can get worn out or bent and sometimes need fixing."}},{"startTime":324.6,"endTime":331.2,"type":"part","title":"brake fluid","url":"/glossary/brake-fluid","quote":"GM parts, he got all GM pads, rotors, calipers, brake hoses, even brought his own brake fluid.","canonicalId":"part:brake-fluid","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in the braking system to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers. It needs to be clean and at proper levels for effective braking.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brake fluid is a special liquid that helps your car's brakes work when you press the pedal."}},{"startTime":362.5,"endTime":366.1,"type":"part","title":"caliper slide pins","url":"/glossary/caliper-slide-pins","quote":"the slides, the pins that move, that allow the caliper to float, are going to be stuck or rusted or worn or something.","canonicalId":"part:caliper-slide-pins","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Caliper slide pins allow the brake caliper to move or 'float' slightly, ensuring even pressure on the brake pads. They need to be lubricated and free of rust to function properly.","simplifiedExplanation":"Caliper slide pins are small parts that let the brake parts move a little so they can press evenly on the discs. They can get stuck if rusty."}},{"startTime":370.0,"endTime":375.0,"type":"brand","title":"GM","url":"/glossary/gm","quote":"Well, he had purchased brand new calipers from GM because he wanted coated calipers.","canonicalId":"brand:gm","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"GM stands for General Motors, a major American automotive manufacturer known for brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick. GM produces original equipment parts for many vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"GM is a big car company in America that makes cars and parts. It stands for General Motors."}},{"startTime":379.6,"endTime":384.1,"type":"term","title":"tow vehicle","url":"/glossary/tow-vehicle","quote":"And he's looking for a look and he doesn't want rusty calipers on the front of his tow vehicle. I understand that 100%.","canonicalId":"term:tow-vehicle","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"A tow vehicle is a vehicle used to pull a trailer or another vehicle. It typically requires robust components like strong brakes and suspension to handle the extra load.","simplifiedExplanation":"A tow vehicle is a car or truck that pulls a trailer or another vehicle behind it."}},{"startTime":386.3,"endTime":388.2,"type":"term","title":"brackets","url":"/glossary/brackets","quote":"But, you know, now I've got to go buy brackets. The brackets are $150 apiece.","canonicalId":"term:brackets","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brackets in automotive brakes are mounting components used to attach calipers or other parts securely to the vehicle's suspension or axle.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brackets are parts that hold the brake pieces in place on the car."}},{"startTime":390.3,"endTime":394.0,"type":"term","title":"aftermarket","url":"/glossary/aftermarket","quote":"I can get aftermarket coated calipers from a very reliable source. As a matter of fact, advanced auto parts, I think they make a great caliper.","canonicalId":"term:aftermarket","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Aftermarket parts are replacement components made by companies other than the original vehicle manufacturer. They can offer different price points, styles, or performance options.","simplifiedExplanation":"Aftermarket parts are parts made by other companies, not the car maker. They can be cheaper or look different."}},{"startTime":390.3,"endTime":398.0,"type":"company","title":"Advanced Auto Parts","url":"/glossary/advanced-auto-parts","quote":"I can get aftermarket coated calipers from a very reliable source. As a matter of fact, advanced auto parts, I think they make a great caliper.","canonicalId":"company:advanced-auto-parts","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Advanced Auto Parts is a large retailer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, accessories, and maintenance items in the United States.","simplifiedExplanation":"Advanced Auto Parts is a store where you can buy car parts and accessories."}},{"startTime":423.1,"endTime":429.7,"type":"concept","title":"brake system maintenance","url":"/glossary/brake-system-maintenance","quote":"Of course, when we're doing brakes, we're also looking at the front. And we're checking the front suspension.","canonicalId":"concept:brake-system-maintenance","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brake system maintenance involves inspecting and servicing components like calipers, pads, rotors, and suspension to ensure safe and effective braking performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Taking care of your brakes means checking parts like the brake pads and suspension to make sure your car stops safely."}},{"startTime":434.3,"endTime":437.1,"type":"part","title":"wheel bearing","url":"/glossary/wheel-bearing","quote":"The left front wheel bearing had wiggle in it. You could, you know, and we do this, we had taken the brakes down.","canonicalId":"part:wheel-bearing","priority":0.9,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls held together by a metal ring that allows the wheel hub to rotate smoothly with minimal friction. A worn or loose wheel bearing can cause noise, vibration, and unsafe handling.","simplifiedExplanation":"A wheel bearing helps the wheel spin easily without wobbling. If it gets loose, the wheel can shake or make noise."}},{"startTime":452.5,"endTime":457.0,"type":"term","title":"play","url":"/glossary/play","quote":"We were able to rock it a little bit. And you could feel there was probably about four, maybe five thousands of play. The bearing was definitely on its way out because there shouldn't be any play in a front hub bearing.","canonicalId":"term:play","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"In automotive terms, 'play' refers to unwanted movement or looseness in a component that should be tight or fixed, such as a wheel bearing. Excessive play indicates wear or failure.","simplifiedExplanation":"'Play' means a part is loose or moving when it shouldn't be. For example, if a wheel wiggles too much, it has too much play."}},{"startTime":521.3,"endTime":523.8,"type":"part","title":"lower ball joints","url":"/glossary/lower-ball-joints","quote":"Well, you know, we dug a little deeper. Both lower ball joints were bad.","canonicalId":"part:lower-ball-joints","priority":0.9,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Lower ball joints are suspension components that connect the control arms to the steering knuckles, allowing for smooth movement and steering control. Worn ball joints can cause poor handling and uneven tire wear.","simplifiedExplanation":"Lower ball joints are parts that help your car's wheels move up and down and turn left or right. If they get worn out, your car might feel wobbly or hard to steer."}},{"startTime":559.8,"endTime":565.4,"type":"part","title":"aluminum control arms","url":"/glossary/aluminum-control-arms","quote":"Now the original control arms, upper and lowers, are aluminum. And, you know, I'm not a fan of pressing ball joints in aluminum.","canonicalId":"part:aluminum-control-arms","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Aluminum control arms are lightweight suspension components that reduce unsprung weight and improve handling. However, pressing ball joints into aluminum can be problematic due to the material's softness compared to steel.","simplifiedExplanation":"Aluminum control arms are lighter parts that connect the wheels to the car, helping it handle better, but they can be tricky to work on because aluminum is softer than steel."}},{"startTime":586.2,"endTime":591.3,"type":"term","title":"rubber bushings","url":"/glossary/rubber-bushings","quote":"But then I started looking at the rubber bushings because everything's related to everything else, right?","canonicalId":"term:rubber-bushings","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rubber bushings are flexible mounts used in suspension components to absorb vibrations and reduce noise. They allow controlled movement while isolating the chassis from road imperfections.","simplifiedExplanation":"Rubber bushings are soft parts that help the car's suspension parts move smoothly and stop bumps and noise from shaking the car too much."}},{"startTime":616.9,"endTime":621.1,"type":"term","title":"alignment","url":"/glossary/alignment","quote":"And there's a, there's a cam that you can change, you can change your alignment settings. Well, the upper bolts were just frozen.","canonicalId":"term:alignment","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Alignment refers to adjusting the angles of the wheels so they are set to the car maker's specifications. Proper alignment ensures even tire wear, good handling, and safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"Alignment means making sure the wheels point straight and work together so your car drives well and the tires last longer."}},{"startTime":625.9,"endTime":627.8,"type":"concept","title":"cutting bolts","url":"/glossary/cutting-bolts","quote":"So we would have to cut the bolts out. Well, when you cut the bolts out, you're going to cut through the rubber bushing.","canonicalId":"concept:cutting-bolts","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Cutting bolts refers to using tools like saws or grinders to remove bolts that are frozen or seized and cannot be loosened by normal means. This is often necessary in repair but can damage surrounding parts.","simplifiedExplanation":"Sometimes bolts get stuck and can't be unscrewed, so mechanics have to cut them off with special tools."}},{"startTime":632.3399999999999,"endTime":634.28,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Suburban","url":"/cars/chevrolet/suburban","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/29/Chevrolet_Suburban_%28GMT800%29_Washington_DC_Metro_Area%2C_USA.jpg","quote":"... the rubber bushing.  But it's cheaper than a new suburban.  So we called up our local parts guy, my guy Den...","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:suburban","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It's often discussed for its durability and utility, making it a popular choice for families and commercial use. In this context, the mention of a rubber bushing highlights common maintenance parts that can be replaced to extend the vehicle's life.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that can carry lots of people and stuff. It's popular because it lasts a long time and can pull heavy things. Here, they talk about fixing a small part called a rubber bushing, which helps keep the car running smoothly.","imageAttribution":"OWS Photography (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":638.4,"endTime":642.9,"type":"company","title":"Bowman Chevrolet","url":"/glossary/bowman-chevrolet","quote":"So we called up our local parts guy, my guy Dennis, up at Bowman Chevrolet in Rockland County, New York.","canonicalId":"company:bowman-chevrolet","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Bowman Chevrolet is a car dealership located in Rockland County, New York, specializing in Chevrolet vehicles and parts.","simplifiedExplanation":"Bowman Chevrolet is a place where you can buy Chevrolet cars and get parts or service."}},{"startTime":690.6,"endTime":696.6,"type":"term","title":"mounting hardware","url":"/glossary/mounting-hardware","quote":"But I said, I need all the mounting hardware. I need the cams, the bolts, the nuts, the washers. I want all the clips, all right?","canonicalId":"term:mounting-hardware","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Mounting hardware refers to all the bolts, nuts, washers, clips, and cams used to attach parts like control arms to the vehicle. Having all original hardware is important for proper fit and safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"Mounting hardware means all the bolts and clips that hold parts of your car together. You need them to put parts back on properly."}},{"startTime":1075.06,"endTime":1076.5,"type":"part","title":"sway bar bushings","url":"/glossary/sway-bar-bushings","quote":"\"sway bar bushings, sway bar links. And it was about a $5,000 repair, all told.\"","canonicalId":"part:sway-bar-bushings","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Sway bar bushings are rubber or polyurethane components that cushion and secure the sway bar to the vehicle's chassis, reducing noise and vibration while allowing the sway bar to control body roll during cornering.","simplifiedExplanation":"Sway bar bushings are like cushions that hold a metal bar under the car. This bar helps keep the car steady when turning corners."}},{"startTime":1075.5,"endTime":1077.9,"type":"part","title":"sway bar links","url":"/glossary/sway-bar-links","quote":"\"sway bar bushings, sway bar links. And it was about a $5,000 repair, all told.\"","canonicalId":"part:sway-bar-links","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Sway bar links connect the sway bar to the suspension components, transmitting forces that reduce body roll and improve handling during turns.","simplifiedExplanation":"Sway bar links are small rods that connect a special bar under the car to the wheels, helping the car stay balanced when turning."}},{"startTime":1086.0,"endTime":1088.1,"type":"term","title":"trans","url":"/glossary/trans","quote":"\"The trans has been done. He's been religious about his oil changes.\"","canonicalId":"term:trans","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Trans is short for transmission, the component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to change speeds and move efficiently.","simplifiedExplanation":"The trans is the part of the car that helps it change gears so it can go faster or slower."}},{"startTime":1198.68,"endTime":1200.34,"type":"car","title":"Ford Explorer","url":"/cars/ford/explorer","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Ford_Explorer_EV_Auto_Zuerich_2024_DSC_6360.jpg","quote":"... Ron, we've spoken to this car a few times.  2004 Explorer may have bitten the dust.  My wife was driving th...","canonicalId":"car:ford:explorer","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that has been a staple in the American market for decades. The 2004 model is often noted for certain reliability issues, including transmission and engine problems, which might explain the mention of it 'biting the dust.' It's a common vehicle for families but requires attention to maintenance history.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Explorer is a medium-sized SUV that many people use for family trips. The 2004 version sometimes has problems that can make it stop working well, like issues with the engine or transmission. That might be why they said it 'bit the dust,' meaning it stopped working.","imageAttribution":"Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1260.52,"endTime":1262.78,"type":"car","title":"Ford Ranger","url":"/cars/ford/ranger","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/28/Ford_Ranger_%28T6%2C_P703%29_Wildtrak_IMG_7320.jpg","quote":"...ideos out there  showing how to pull a 4-0 from a Ranger Explorer  and replace chains and guides.","canonicalId":"car:ford:ranger","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck valued for its versatility and off-road capability. The reference to replacing timing chains and guides suggests common maintenance tasks to prevent engine damage, especially in older models. It's a practical truck often used for both work and recreational purposes.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Ranger is a small truck that people use for work or fun. Sometimes parts inside the engine, like chains and guides, need to be fixed or replaced to keep the truck running well. The video mentioned shows how to do this kind of repair.","imageAttribution":"Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1383.6,"endTime":1385.0,"type":"part","title":"turbocharger","url":"/glossary/turbocharger","quote":"You don't need a turbocharger on a grocery getter. You need something that's reliable, longevity, that's inexpensive to fix.","canonicalId":"part:turbocharger","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.98,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"A turbocharger is a forced induction device that increases an engine's efficiency and power by forcing extra compressed air into the combustion chamber. While it boosts performance, turbochargers add complexity and can increase maintenance costs.","simplifiedExplanation":"A turbocharger is like a fan that pushes more air into the engine to make it stronger. But it can make the car more expensive to fix."}},{"startTime":1774.7,"endTime":1777.8,"type":"company","title":"Mitchell One","url":"/glossary/mitchell-one","quote":"Well, thank you. Top of mind for me, for my daily experience here at Mitchell One, is going to be the shop management software.","canonicalId":"company:mitchell-one","priority":0.9,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Mitchell One is a company that provides shop management software solutions for automotive repair shops, helping them manage repair orders, parts, labor, and workflow efficiently.","simplifiedExplanation":"Mitchell One makes computer programs that help car repair shops keep track of all the work they do, like parts and labor, so things run smoothly."}},{"startTime":1777.8,"endTime":1780.0,"type":"term","title":"shop management software","url":"/glossary/shop-management-software","quote":"Top of mind for me, for my daily experience here at Mitchell One, is going to be the shop management software. So, we're making progress always on several fronts.","canonicalId":"term:shop-management-software","priority":0.9,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Shop management software is a digital tool used by automotive repair shops to organize and manage repair orders, parts inventory, labor tracking, and customer communications.","simplifiedExplanation":"Shop management software is a computer program that helps car repair shops keep track of the work they do and the parts they use, making their job easier and faster."}},{"startTime":1783.3,"endTime":1787.7,"type":"term","title":"Manager SE","url":"/glossary/manager-se","quote":"Typically, I would lead off with manager SE. That's our flagship product. It's in tens of thousands of shops.","canonicalId":"term:manager-se","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"Manager SE is the flagship shop management software product by Mitchell One, widely used in tens of thousands of automotive repair shops to streamline their operations.","simplifiedExplanation":"Manager SE is a popular computer program that helps car repair shops organize their work and keep track of repairs and parts."}},{"startTime":1805.3,"endTime":1809.9,"type":"term","title":"job view function","url":"/glossary/job-view-function","quote":"The first I would want to mention is the job view function and set of features. So, what it does is it organizes on your order screen.","canonicalId":"term:job-view-function","priority":0.5,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"The job view function is a feature in shop management software that organizes repair order details on the screen, making it easier for service advisors to manage parts, labor, and sublet items.","simplifiedExplanation":"The job view function is a part of the software that helps car repair workers see all the details of a repair job clearly, so they can do their work better."}},{"startTime":2227.2,"endTime":2249.2,"type":"term","title":"VIN","url":"/glossary/vin","quote":"\"it will tell me Vin. It will give me engine choices. It will help me break down what that is because, you know, it's dialing out to the, in my case, I guess the New Jersey Motor Vehicle database and, you know, it's bringing it up.\"","canonicalId":"term:vin","priority":0.9,"confidence":1.0,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4.1-mini","data":{"explanation":"VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number, a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. It is used to identify the specific vehicle, its manufacturer, model, engine type, and other important details.","simplifiedExplanation":"A VIN is like a car's fingerprint. It is a special code that tells you exactly which car it is, including things like the make, model, and engine."}}],"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-march-7-2026-hour-2-looking-at-the-whole-repair-what-s-new-with-mitchell-software/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}