THE Car Show with Dane Donovan - 1/24/2026
About this episode
Dane Donovan takes calls from listeners, addressing various car-related questions and concerns. He emphasizes the importance of preparing vehicles for cold weather, discussing common winter issues like battery failures and door lock problems. A significant portion of the episode focuses on the pitfalls of aftermarket warranties, with Dane sharing personal experiences and advising against them in favor of factory warranties. Listeners also share their automotive projects and inquiries, including discussions about used cars, oil changes, and vehicle maintenance tips.
In this episode of the Car Show, Dane Donovan takes your calls and tackles a range of car-related topics. He shares a personal story about purchasing an extended factory warranty for his new vehicle and warns listeners about the pitfalls of aftermarket warranties. Dane also discusses the importance of buying quality parts when doing car repairs yourself, using the example of a caller's issue with an oil filter leak. Additionally, he offers advice on how to inspect and maintain a used car, specifically the Crown Vic, and answers questions from listeners about car maintenance and repair.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
door lock actuator
"A lot of door lock actuators, batteries, starters, alternators, wiper blades, door handles. I mean, you name it, when it gets this cold..."
A door lock actuator is a small motor that helps your car doors lock and unlock. If it breaks, you might have trouble getting in or out of your car.
A door lock actuator is an electric motor that locks and unlocks the car doors. It is a common component that can fail, especially in cold weather, leading to issues with locking or unlocking the doors.
battery
"A lot of door lock actuators, batteries, starters, alternators, wiper blades, door handles. I mean, you name it, when it gets this cold..."
The battery in your car gives it the power to start and run. Cold weather can make batteries weaker, which might cause your car not to start.
The battery provides the electrical power needed to start the engine and run electrical systems in the car. Cold weather can significantly reduce battery performance and lead to failures.
wiper blades
"A lot of door lock actuators, batteries, starters, alternators, wiper blades, door handles. I mean, you name it, when it gets this cold..."
Wiper blades help clear rain and snow from your windshield. If they get old or freeze in cold weather, they won't work well, making it hard to see.
Wiper blades are essential for maintaining visibility during rain or snow. In cold weather, they can freeze or wear out, leading to reduced effectiveness.
starter
"A lot of door lock actuators, batteries, starters, alternators, wiper blades, door handles. I mean, you name it, when it gets this cold..."
The starter is a part of your car that helps the engine start. If it breaks, your car won't start, especially in cold weather.
The starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation by turning it over. It can fail in cold weather, making it difficult to start the vehicle.
alternator
"A lot of door lock actuators, batteries, starters, alternators, wiper blades, door handles. I mean, you name it, when it gets this cold..."
The alternator helps keep your car's battery charged while you drive. If it has problems, your battery might not stay charged, especially in cold weather.
The alternator is responsible for charging the car's battery and powering the electrical system while the engine is running. Cold temperatures can affect its performance and reliability.
Ford Bronco
"she bought a brand new Ford Bronco, right? And she came in and she goes, Dan, I just bought this car."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV designed for off-road driving. It has a classic look and is popular among people who like adventure and outdoor activities.
The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and retro styling. It has a strong following among off-road enthusiasts and has been reintroduced with modern features while maintaining its classic appeal.
aftermarket warranty
"they want me to buy this warranty for the car. And what are your thoughts? So, I looked at it and I'm like, okay, this is an aftermarket warranty."
An aftermarket warranty is a type of insurance you can buy to help pay for car repairs after the original warranty from the manufacturer runs out. It's important to be careful with these because they can be expensive and not always worth it.
An aftermarket warranty is a service contract sold by a third party, covering repairs and services for a vehicle after the manufacturer's warranty expires. These warranties can vary widely in coverage and reliability, and many experts advise caution when purchasing them.
extended factory warranty
"And when I was purchasing it, I asked if there was any type of extended factory warranty. Now, this is important. Extended factory warranty. Listen to me here. It's very important."
An extended factory warranty is like extra insurance for your car that covers repairs after the original warranty expires. It helps protect you from expensive repair bills if something goes wrong with your vehicle.
An extended factory warranty is a service contract that provides additional coverage for a vehicle beyond the standard warranty period. It typically covers repairs and replacements for certain components, offering peace of mind for the owner against potential costly repairs.
electronics
"...you want to make sure that if all these vehicles nowadays have all these electronics, they've got all this technology and that's great..."
Electronics in cars are the systems that help with things like navigation, music, and safety features. They make driving easier and safer but can be expensive to fix if they break.
In the context of vehicles, electronics refer to the various electronic systems and components that control functions such as navigation, entertainment, safety features, and engine management. Modern cars rely heavily on electronics for performance and convenience.
Hyundai and Kia
"except for Hyundai and Kia, three years, 36,000 miles, okay?"
Hyundai and Kia are car brands that are known for giving longer warranties than many other car makers, which means they cover repairs for a longer time.
Hyundai and Kia are automotive manufacturers known for offering competitive warranties, often longer than the industry standard. They typically provide a 5-year, 60,000-mile basic warranty.
Honda Pilot
"...great customer Honda pilot purchases it pays, I think $5,000 for this aftermarket warranty and purchases it. And lo and behold, it's a Honda great product..."
The Honda Pilot is a type of SUV that is big enough for families and has lots of space inside. It's known for being reliable and good for everyday use.
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and reliability. It is often praised for its comfortable ride and practicality, making it a popular choice among families.
engine
"...if you open up his little pamphlet, that's covered engine is covered, it says that, right? So I call the warranty company..."
An engine is the part of a car that makes it go. It uses fuel to create power, but sometimes engines can break down or fail.
The engine is a crucial component of a vehicle that converts fuel into mechanical energy to power the car. In this context, the discussion revolves around engine failure and warranty coverage.
technician
"...we're going to send our technician out to look at the vehicle. All right. So now we're waiting three or four days..."
A technician is a person who knows a lot about fixing things, especially cars. They check what's wrong and help make repairs.
A technician is a skilled worker who specializes in repairing and maintaining machinery, including vehicles. Here, the technician is sent to assess the engine's condition.
pistons
"I was trying to disassemble an engine and the pistons were stuck. I remember that, yeah. I managed to get the other two out..."
Pistons are parts inside an engine that move up and down. They help turn the fuel into power that makes the car go.
Pistons are cylindrical components that move up and down within an engine's cylinders, converting the energy from fuel combustion into mechanical work. They play a crucial role in the engine's operation and performance.
cylinders
"It may be more involved in it. It is practical with this engine. It's only in for a pound. So I went 40 over on those."
Cylinders are the spaces in an engine where pistons move. They help burn fuel to create power for the car.
Cylinders are the chambers in which pistons move up and down in an engine. They are essential for the combustion process, as they house the fuel-air mixture that is ignited to produce power.
journals
"I had to take 10 off the journals to clean them up. I got a set of pistons and bearings and everything to..."
Journals are parts of the crankshaft that help it spin inside the engine. They need to be smooth so the engine can work well without problems.
Journals refer to the part of the crankshaft that rotates within the engine's bearings. They are critical for supporting the crankshaft and allowing it to turn smoothly while minimizing friction.
camshaft
"...you said you got used cams? Yeah. The ones that were, like I said, the ones that were in it had one load that was starting to spoil..."
The camshaft is a part of the engine that helps open and close the valves. It controls when air and fuel enter the engine and when exhaust leaves, which is important for how well the engine runs.
The camshaft is a vital engine component that controls the opening and closing of the engine's valves. It has lobes that push against the valves to allow air and fuel in and exhaust out, directly impacting engine performance.
timing chain
"...What about the timing chain and guides? I'm going to put new ones. Okay. All right. I was going to say..."
The timing chain is a part of the engine that keeps everything moving in sync. It makes sure the valves open and close at the right times so the engine runs smoothly.
The timing chain is a critical component that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft in an engine. It ensures that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes.
tensioner
"...you want to make sure you put new guides, new tensioner, new chain..."
A tensioner is a part that keeps the timing chain tight so it can work properly. If it doesn't work well, it can cause the engine to have timing problems.
A tensioner is a component that maintains the proper tension on the timing chain or belt, ensuring that it operates smoothly and prevents slippage. A failing tensioner can lead to timing issues and engine damage.
oil pump
"...debating whether I'll try and check the clearances on the oil pump and I don't know whether I want to go to the extent of putting a new pump in it. Yeah. I mean, I've never seen a Honda pump oil pump fail..."
An oil pump helps move oil around the engine to keep all the parts lubricated. If it stops working, the engine can get damaged because the parts won't be properly lubricated.
The oil pump is a critical component in an engine that circulates oil to lubricate moving parts, ensuring smooth operation and preventing wear. A failing oil pump can lead to serious engine damage due to inadequate lubrication.
Ford Crown Victoria
"What's your opinion on the Panther platform for cars? You said with the pan Vicks and yeah, Crown Vicks and grand marquis and Oh man. If you can get one and find one, I'd buy it all day long."
The Ford Crown Victoria is a big car that many people liked because it lasts a long time and is very reliable. It was often used by police and as a taxi because of how sturdy it is.
The Ford Crown Victoria is a full-size sedan that was popular for its durability and reliability, often used as a police car and taxi. It is known for its spacious interior and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of older vehicles.
Ford Grand Marquis
"If you can get one and find one, I'd buy it all day long. I think, in my opinion, that was probably, I don't know, in my opinion, that was probably the best car Ford ever made."
The Ford Grand Marquis is another big car similar to the Crown Victoria, known for being comfortable and reliable. Many people liked it for long drives and as a family car.
The Ford Grand Marquis is a full-size sedan that shares its platform with the Crown Victoria. It is known for its spaciousness and comfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable used car.
Mercury Grand Marquis
"...said with the pan Vicks and yeah, Crown Vicks and grand marquis and Oh man. If you can get one and find one, I'd..."
The Mercury Grand Marquis is a big, comfortable car that used to be popular for its smooth driving experience. It's known for having a lot of space inside, making it great for long trips.
The Mercury Grand Marquis is a full-size sedan that was produced until 2011, known for its spacious interior and smooth ride. It has a loyal following due to its classic design and comfort, often associated with older luxury vehicles.
used car inspection
"...if you've got a car that's been sitting outside its entire life, I wouldn't recommend probably buying it. And if, and if you do, you make sure that you get it inspected before you buy it."
A used car inspection is when a mechanic checks a car to see if it's in good shape before you buy it. They look for problems that might not be obvious at first glance.
A used car inspection is a thorough examination of a pre-owned vehicle to assess its condition, including mechanical, structural, and cosmetic aspects. This process helps potential buyers identify any issues before making a purchase.
rust
"...I can get a car and look at it, do a used car inspection on it, get it, and it's just covered in rust. And it's like, man, on the outside, it looked great..."
Rust is what happens when metal gets wet and starts to break down. It can make a car weak and is something to look out for when buying a used car.
Rust is a form of corrosion that occurs when iron or its alloys are exposed to moisture and oxygen over time. It can significantly weaken the structural integrity of a vehicle and is often a major concern for used car buyers, especially in regions with harsh weather.
Jensen Interceptor
"...s opposed to the Grand Marquis is that the police interceptor versions, that kind of scares me a little bit be..."
The Jensen Interceptor is a rare and stylish sports car from the past that many car enthusiasts admire. It's known for being fast and having a cool design, but it's not very common to see on the road today.
The Jensen Interceptor is a classic British sports car produced from the 1960s to the 1970s, known for its unique styling and powerful performance. It combines luxury with sporty handling, making it a sought-after collector's item.
idle hours
"...if you buy, you know, if you buy an old, you know, police cruiser, that yes, it does have a lot of idle hours..."
Idle hours are the time a car's engine runs while it's not being driven. If a car has a lot of idle hours, it might have more wear and tear, which can be a concern for buyers.
Idle hours refer to the amount of time an engine runs while the vehicle is not in motion. High idle hours can lead to increased wear and tear on the engine and other components, especially in vehicles like police cruisers that may sit and run for extended periods.
Kia K5
"...he Car Show. How can I help? Oh, I've got a 2021 Kia K5. And I don't know if you're familiar with the oi..."
The Kia K5 is a newer car that looks really sleek and has lots of cool tech features. It's designed to be comfortable and safe, making it a good choice for everyday driving.
The Kia K5 is a midsize sedan that replaced the Kia Optima in 2020, featuring a bold design and a range of modern technology and safety features. It has gained attention for its stylish looks and value for money.
oil filter
"...I don't know if you're familiar with the oil filter and the plastic cup that holds it on the bottom..."
An oil filter is a part of the car that cleans the oil as it circulates through the engine. This helps keep the engine running smoothly and prevents damage from dirt and debris.
The oil filter is a crucial component in an engine that removes contaminants from engine oil. It helps maintain engine performance and longevity by ensuring that the oil circulating through the engine is clean.
O-ring
"...I changed the filter out again, I guess, an O-ring. There's an O-ring on the cup and an O-ring in that drain..."
An O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps seal parts together to stop oil or other fluids from leaking out. It's important for keeping everything tight and working properly.
An O-ring is a circular rubber seal used to prevent leaks between two parts, such as the oil filter and the engine. It is essential for maintaining a tight seal and ensuring that fluids do not escape.
drain plug
"The drain plug at the bottom. You're talking on the oil pan."
The drain plug is a small part at the bottom of the oil pan that you unscrew to let old oil out when changing the oil in your car.
The drain plug is a component located at the bottom of the oil pan that allows for the removal of old oil during an oil change. It's essential for maintaining proper oil levels and ensuring the engine operates efficiently.
Toyota Camry
"...o Car Show. How can I help? Hello. I have a 2013 Camry with 156,000 miles on it. And when I bought it, I..."
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that is known for being dependable and easy to drive. Many people like it because it gets good gas mileage and has a comfortable interior.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States for decades, making it a popular choice for families and commuters alike.
Gmc Terrains
"...st itself. Now, what I will tell you is yes, the GMC terrains, most vehicles nowadays and terrain is a pretty b..."
The GMC Terrain is a small SUV that has plenty of room inside for passengers and cargo. It's a good option for people who want a vehicle that can handle different types of driving and has a lot of features.
The GMC Terrain is a compact SUV that offers a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a comfortable ride. It is designed for those who need versatility and practicality in their vehicle.
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