Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - November 22, 2025 - Hour 1 - The Most Expensive Repair Is a Broken Relationship - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
About this episode
Ron Ananian discusses the importance of the relationship between vehicle owners and their mechanics, emphasizing that trust and communication are key to successful auto repairs. He shares anecdotes about customers who struggle with trust and decision-making regarding repairs, illustrating how these dynamics can affect outcomes. The episode also touches on the significance of understanding the repair process and valuing the expertise of mechanics, while encouraging listeners to foster better relationships with their service providers.
This episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor dives into the one thing most drivers overlook: the relationship with your mechanic. Ron explains why trust, honesty, and communication matter more than price-shopping or chasing second opinions—and how being a “consumer” instead of a “customer” can derail even the simplest repair.
You’ll hear real-world examples from the shop and the show: the tire-avoiding Toyota owner, the dealer who pushed a loyal buyer away, and callers whose problems were solved only after the right relationship was in place.
Ron breaks down how to fix the disconnect: share your service history, respect diagnostic time, be ready for step one before demanding step two, and judge a shop by how it handles problems—not perfection.
Auto repair isn’t just about fixing cars. It’s about the people you trust to fix them.
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Chevrolet Camaro
"Well, that's not older, dude. That's just, you know, and older is a 68 Camaro."
The Camaro is a sporty car made by Chevrolet, and the 1968 model is one of the first versions. It's famous for being powerful and stylish, often associated with muscle cars.
The 1968 Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car known for its performance and style. It was part of the first generation of Camaros, which were produced from 1967 to 1969.
Toyota Corolla
"...u know, and older is a 68 Camaro. You know, an O5 Corolla is, you know, it's still it's still a good runnin..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it's dependable and doesn't use a lot of gas. It's been around for a long time, and even older versions, like the 2005 model, are still considered good cars to drive.
The Toyota Corolla is a compact car that has been in production since 1966, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It has gained a reputation as one of the best-selling cars globally, making it a significant model in automotive history. The mention of an older model like the 2005 Corolla highlights its enduring appeal and longevity.
wheel bearing
"...understand also it could be tires and a wheel bearing..."
A wheel bearing helps your car's wheels turn smoothly. If it's damaged, it can cause noise and make it harder for your car to drive straight.
A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls or rollers held together by a metal ring that allows the wheel to spin smoothly. They are crucial for the safe operation of a vehicle, as they support the weight of the car and reduce friction between the wheel and axle.
battery
"He, you know, I have a battery. Could you put a battery in my Jeep?"
A battery in a car is like a storage unit for electricity. It helps start the car and powers things like lights and the radio when the car isn't running.
A battery is a crucial component in a vehicle that provides the electrical energy needed to start the engine and power electrical systems when the engine is off. It stores energy chemically and releases it as electricity when needed.
oil change
"...I keep buying new cars and the dealer keeps doing the oil changes and doing all my service under warranty."
An oil change is when the old oil in the car's engine is taken out and replaced with new oil. This helps the engine work better and last longer.
An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure where old engine oil is replaced with new oil to ensure proper engine function and longevity. It's essential for keeping the engine lubricated and running smoothly.
warranty
"...and doing all my service under warranty. And, you know, this is the first thing I've ever needed that's out of warranty."
A warranty is like a guarantee from the car maker that they'll fix certain problems for free if they happen within a specific time or distance you drive.
A warranty is a promise from the manufacturer or dealer to repair or replace parts of a vehicle for a certain period or mileage. It typically covers defects in materials or workmanship.
Chrysler
"...the kids are always driving Jeeps and Chrysler products."
Chrysler is a car company that makes various types of vehicles, including family cars and vans. They are known for their comfortable and spacious designs.
Chrysler is an American automobile manufacturer known for producing a range of vehicles, including sedans, minivans, and SUVs. It is part of the larger Stellantis group.
Goodyear
"...So I took it down to the Goodyear dealer down here, where I've been going for years."
Goodyear is a famous company that makes tires for cars and trucks, and they also have places where you can get your tires serviced or replaced.
Goodyear is a well-known tire manufacturer that provides tires for various types of vehicles, as well as automotive services through its network of dealers and service centers.
master cylinder
"...because they put a master cylinder on it and they still didn't have brakes. So I called about five different Chevy dealers..."
The master cylinder helps your car stop by pushing brake fluid to the brakes when you press the pedal. If it's not working, you might not be able to stop your car properly.
The master cylinder is a crucial component of a vehicle's braking system. It converts the force from the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure, which then activates the brakes at each wheel.
Chevy
"...So I called about five different Chevy dealers. And I read in the Haynes that you have to do a Keck 1 brake scan..."
Chevy is a popular car brand in America known for making many types of vehicles, including cars and trucks.
Chevy, short for Chevrolet, is a well-known American automobile brand that produces a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to sedans. It is part of General Motors.
ABS light
"I got just about home and ABS light come on. So I pulled over the side of the road, shut it off, started it."
The ABS light is a warning that something is wrong with the car's braking system. If it lights up, it's a good idea to have it checked out.
The ABS light indicates a problem with the Anti-lock Braking System, which helps prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking. When this light comes on, it usually means the system needs to be checked.
scan tool
"He come out with this. I never seen one like this, a big scan tool. And he plugged it in and he started doing things."
A scan tool is a device that mechanics use to check what's wrong with a car. It connects to the car's computer to find problems and see how different parts are working.
A scan tool is a diagnostic device used to communicate with a vehicle's onboard computer system. It helps mechanics identify issues by reading error codes and monitoring various systems in the car.
ABS controller
"...the whole idea of what that tech one scan does is there is air in the ABS controller. All right. And going back to when you bled the brakes,..."
The ABS controller is part of a system that helps your car stop safely without skidding. It makes sure that the wheels keep turning while you brake hard, so you can still steer your car.
The ABS controller is a component of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that helps prevent the wheels from locking up during braking. This is crucial for maintaining steering control and stability during hard braking situations.
GMC Acadia
"Yeah, so it's a 2016 GMC Acadia Denali. I bought it about six months ago from a reputable used car dealer chain."
The GMC Acadia Denali is a fancy version of the Acadia SUV, designed to be more comfortable and stylish, often used by families for its roominess.
The GMC Acadia Denali is a premium trim of the Acadia, known for its upscale features and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families and those needing extra passenger space.
global modules
"That's usually where I see that because GMs have global modules and they're specific to the vehicle. That being said, all right, once you get past that,"
Global modules are parts that can work in different car models from the same brand. They need to be set up for each specific car to work properly.
Global modules are electronic control units that can be used across multiple vehicle models within a manufacturer's lineup. They help streamline production and reduce costs, but they must be programmed specifically for each vehicle to function correctly.
Ford Escape
"I've got a 2013 Ford escape and it made a poppin' noise"
The Ford Escape is a small SUV that is great for everyday driving. The 2013 version has different engine choices and is known for being reliable and spacious.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV known for its practicality and versatility. The 2013 model features a range of engines and options, making it a popular choice among families and individuals alike.
rear differential
"One thing I want to caution you on is have you ever changed or looked at the fluid in the transfer case or the rear differential?"
The rear differential is a part that helps the back wheels of a car turn at different speeds, especially when going around corners. It makes driving smoother and helps the car handle better.
The rear differential is a gear assembly that allows the wheels on the rear axle to rotate at different speeds, which is essential for cornering. It also helps distribute engine power to the wheels effectively.
transfer case
"One thing I want to caution you on is have you ever changed or looked at the fluid in the transfer case or the rear differential?"
The transfer case helps send power to all four wheels of a vehicle, which is important for driving on rough or slippery surfaces. It's like a part that helps control how the car uses its power to move.
A transfer case is a component found in four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles that distributes power from the transmission to the front and rear axles. It allows for the engagement of four-wheel drive and can include features like low-range gearing for off-road conditions.
Chevrolet 64 Chevrolet
"... Not at all, sir. No, sir. Not at all. I've got a 64 Chevrolet truck and it's very simple. Yeah. How could that ..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that has been around for a long time, starting in 1953. It's famous for being powerful and looks really cool, especially the older models like the one from 1964.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 1953, known for its distinctive design and powerful engines. It represents American automotive engineering and has a strong following among car enthusiasts. The mention of a 1964 model highlights its classic status and the nostalgia associated with vintage cars.
Chevrolet truck
"I've got a 64 Chevrolet truck and it's very simple. Yeah. How could that be, right?"
The 1964 Chevrolet truck is a classic vehicle known for its reliability. It's often used for both work and leisure, and many people appreciate its straightforward design.
The 1964 Chevrolet truck is part of the C/K series, known for its durability and versatility. These trucks were popular for both work and personal use, featuring a simple design that made them easy to maintain.
Austin Healey
"...he had an Austin Healey."
Austin Healey is a brand of sports cars from Britain that were popular in the mid-20th century. They are known for their sporty looks and fun driving experience.
Austin Healey is a British sports car manufacturer known for its stylish and performance-oriented vehicles, particularly popular in the 1950s and 1960s. The brand is celebrated for models like the 3000, which combined performance with classic British design.
Austin Healey Sprite
"...I was a 63 bug eye sprite. You could, I'm sorry, an Austin Healy. You could get away with that..."
The Austin Healey Sprite is a classic small sports car from the late 1950s to early 1970s. It's known for being fun to drive and is a favorite among car collectors today.
The Austin Healey Sprite is a small, affordable sports car produced by the British automaker Austin Healey from 1958 to 1971. Known for its lightweight design and playful handling, it became popular among enthusiasts and is often associated with the '60s sports car culture.
Berryman
"...Berryman, our friends over at Berryman have released their Berryman chem dip carburetor and parts cleaner..."
Berryman is a brand that makes cleaning products for cars, like carburetor cleaners. People use their products to help keep their vehicles running smoothly.
Berryman is a company known for producing automotive maintenance products, including cleaners, lubricants, and fuel additives. Their products are often used by both professionals and DIY enthusiasts to maintain and repair vehicles.
carburetor
"...we want to rebuild carburetors on our older cars. Well, Berryman's got the carburetor and parts cleaner..."
A carburetor helps engines get the right mix of air and fuel to run properly. It's more common in older cars than in newer ones that use a different system called fuel injection.
A carburetor is a device in an internal combustion engine that mixes air with a fine spray of liquid fuel. It plays a crucial role in the engine's performance, especially in older vehicles that do not use fuel injection.
Torx stick
"So for everybody that may not be familiar, a Torx stick is a calibrated socket, in a sense. And they're rated for different tightening, different amount of fastening strength."
A Torx stick is a tool that helps tighten screws or bolts to a specific strength. It's important because using the right amount of force helps keep parts secure and safe.
A Torx stick is a type of torque wrench that uses a Torx socket to apply a specific amount of torque to fasteners. It's calibrated to ensure that the correct amount of force is applied, which is crucial for proper assembly and safety in automotive applications.
foot-pounds of torque
"So, for example, most GM vehicles, cars, not trucks, would be 100 foot-pounds of torque. So it's designed to have a twisting action that will apply approximately 100 foot-pounds of torque."
Foot-pounds of torque is a way to measure how much force is used to turn something, like a screw. It helps make sure that parts are tightened properly in cars.
Foot-pounds of torque is a unit of measurement used to quantify the amount of rotational force applied to an object, such as a bolt or nut. It indicates how much twisting force is needed to tighten or loosen fasteners in automotive applications.
torque wrench
"But every time we do it, we still do a torque wrench."
A torque wrench is a special tool that helps you tighten screws or bolts to the right strength. This is important to make sure everything stays together safely in a car.
A torque wrench is a tool used to precisely apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener, such as a nut or bolt. It is essential for ensuring that fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications, preventing damage or failure.
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