Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - September 13, 2025 - Hour 2 - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly - (855)560-9900 24/7 Hotline
About this episode
Ron Ananian dives into a variety of automotive issues in this episode, tackling listener calls about specific vehicle problems. From diagnosing a 2019 Chevy Blazer's AC issues to discussing the complexities of fuel injectors in a 1996 F-350, Ron shares his expertise and practical advice. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication between mechanics and customers, illustrating the challenges faced in auto repair. The episode also features anecdotes about the good, the bad, and the ugly in the automotive world, highlighting the nuances of vehicle maintenance and repair.
The Good, the Bad & the Ugly: Thermostats, Cold Misfires, Dual-Tank Gremlins & Shop Truths
Ron opens with “the good, the bad, and the ugly,” then dives into rapid-fire diagnostics: a 2019 Chevy Blazer that loses A/C and power assist when a bad thermostat skews engine temp strategy; a 2017 Ford Explorer with P0300/P0316 cold-start misfires and how to prove cause using Mode 6, freeze-frame, power balance, and residual fuel-pressure tests; a 1996 Ford F-350 dual-tank fueling issue caused by check-valve logic/recall history; a quick clutch-interlock switch hack; and a Toyota Highlander Blackstone oil-analysis follow-up. Plus: why parts updates (hello, brake pad tape) and better shop communication matter. Practical steps, scan-tool tips, and straight talk for DIYers and pros.
Chapter Markers (condensed)
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00:00 – Tease: “Good, Bad & Ugly” open; straight to the phones
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01:11 – 2019 Chevy Blazer: thermostat fault, A/C & EPS cut by strategy
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05:44 – 2017 Ford Explorer: P0300/P0316; Mode 6, freeze-frame, power balance, residual pressure plan
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17:50 – 1996 Ford F-350: dual tanks pumping into each other; check valves & recall history
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24:02 – Quick tip: clutch-interlock switch adjustment workaround
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26:14 – 2015 Toyota Highlander: Blackstone oil-report results & contamination prevention
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30:39 – Close: parts changes (pad adhesives), customer approach, and shop relationships
- Grab your Car Doctor gear – T-shirts & more at CarDoctorShow.com
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Follow the wrench – Instagram @ronananian for shop life & behind-the-scenes
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Watch & learn – Auto repair tips & videos on our YouTube Channel
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Got a car question? Call the Car Doctor Hotline 24/7 – (855) 560-9900
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Join the conversation LIVE – Saturdays 2–4 PM Eastern
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chevrolet Blazer
"...ybe it'll be next week. Chad, Louisiana, 19 Chevy Blazer. What's going on, Chad?"
Ford Explorer
"Yes, sir. Let's go to Gary, Wisconsin, 17 Explorer. I mean, Explorer, did I say that?"
Ford Fusion
"So you know the ugly, the ugly was the Ford Fusion, it took four sets of brake pads"
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