Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - September 13, 2025 - Hour 1 - Flashing A School Bus - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
About this episode
Ron Ananian shares a unique story about diagnosing and repairing a school bus with an ABS controller issue. He emphasizes the growing complexity of automotive technology, highlighting the necessity of diagnostic software in modern repairs. The conversation also touches on the increasing trend of older cars being maintained due to economic factors, as well as the challenges faced in the repair shop. Listeners will gain insights into practical repair techniques and the importance of software updates in vehicle maintenance.
Flashing a School Bus (Legally): ABS Programming, Honda Axles, Hemi Misfires & EVAP Fixes
In this episode of Ron Ananian The Car Doctor, Ron opens with a shop story you won’t forget—flashing a 2008 Chevy short school bus after its new ABS module came in blank. Using the OPUS IVS 360 and remote tech support, he gets the “empty” controller fully configured and back on the road, proving why software and programming matter just as much as wrenches in today’s repairs.
From there, Ron tackles real listener calls:
-
How to choose the right Honda Accord CV axles without paying $1,100 each at the dealer
-
The smart way to service Honda automatic transmissions with DW-1 fluid and why pressure switches matter
-
Diagnosing a cylinder-6 misfire on a Dodge Durango Hemi using volumetric efficiency testing and running compression
-
Understanding Infiniti’s P0448 EVAP vent code and how to test before replacing parts
Packed with practical scan tool strategies, shop-floor economics, and repair insights, this episode is a must-listen for DIYers, techs, and anyone trying to keep their vehicle on the road longer.
- 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.
Volkswagen Bus
"...as, this is actually one of those, it's the short bus, right? And it's the one of those,"
Honda Accord
"...own to Kentucky and talk to Dave. Oh, seven Honda Accord. Dave, what's going on?"
Honda Odyssey
"I have purchased brand new axles from Honda for newer Odyssey's and newer Accords for 350 bucks. 350. 350."
Chevrolet Volt
"...y town is 30.13. The truck reads 19.88 with a 1.3 volt on the map sensor. And the truck, when the comput..."
Infiniti Q50
"You're welcome. Okay, 2018, Affinity Q50. Okay."
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.