{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"The Car Show with Dane Donovan 12/6/2025","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-car-show-with-dane-donovan-12-6-2025","audioUrl":"https://podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/traffic.omny.fm/d/clips/98a2599f-cd9b-4f2a-9be4-b22c00e585f2/ec45f402-1bd0-4b33-b8fa-b36401192671/e78577d3-f371-4168-a4c5-b3ac00e77bac/audio.mp3?utm_source=Podcast&in_playlist=4e0ab41b-2373-4728-b97c-b36401192677","description":"In this episode of the Car Show, Dane Donovan discusses the importance of winterizing your vehicle. He shares his own experiences with snow and car accidents, emphasizing the need to check your battery, alternator, and starter. Dane also talks about the benefits of regular oil changes, citing a listener's experience with a 2002 Dodge Ram that's still running strong after 342,000 miles. He advises listeners to schedule a vehicle inspection, especially before sending loved ones home for the holidays. Dane also answers questions from listeners, including one about the best oil to use in a 2018 Ford Fusion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information."},"annotations":[{"startTime":388.0,"endTime":391.6,"type":"part","title":"tires","url":"/glossary/tires","quote":"And those are the times when you're like, man, I think I probably need tires. In fact, a friend of mine was like, hey, you guys put new tires on my truck.","canonicalId":"part:tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Tires are crucial components of a vehicle that provide traction, handling, and stability. They are designed to support the weight of the vehicle and ensure safe driving under various conditions, including snow and rain.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tires are the rubber parts that go around the wheels of a car. They help the car grip the road and are especially important for safety, especially in bad weather like snow."}},{"startTime":414.6,"endTime":420.4,"type":"term","title":"batteries","url":"/glossary/batteries","quote":"...we want we need to make sure that we're testing our batteries. And, you know, when I again, when I started in this industry...","canonicalId":"term:batteries","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Car batteries provide the electrical energy needed to start the engine and power electrical systems when the engine is not running. Testing batteries is essential, especially in winter, when cold temperatures can affect their performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Batteries in cars give power to start the engine and run electrical parts like lights and radios. It's important to check them, especially in winter when they can struggle to work properly."}},{"startTime":565.1,"endTime":568.1,"type":"part","title":"battery","url":"/glossary/battery","quote":"I can check your battery today and it's dead tomorrow. I can check your alternator or your starter today and it not work tomorrow.","canonicalId":"part:battery","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A battery is an essential component in a vehicle that stores electrical energy to start the engine and power electrical systems when the engine is off. It can fail unexpectedly, leading to starting issues.","simplifiedExplanation":"A battery is like a big rechargeable power source for your car. It helps start the engine and runs things like the lights and radio when the engine isn't running."}},{"startTime":568.1,"endTime":573.2,"type":"part","title":"alternator","url":"/glossary/alternator","quote":"I can check your alternator or your starter today and it not work tomorrow. And that sometimes frustrates people, right?","canonicalId":"part:alternator","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An alternator is a component that generates electricity to recharge the battery and power the vehicle's electrical systems while the engine is running. If it fails, the battery will not recharge, leading to electrical issues.","simplifiedExplanation":"An alternator is a part of the car that makes electricity while the engine is running. It keeps the battery charged and powers the car's electrical parts, like the lights and radio."}},{"startTime":573.2,"endTime":580.1,"type":"part","title":"starter","url":"/glossary/starter","quote":"I can check your alternator or your starter today and it not work tomorrow. And that sometimes frustrates people, right?","canonicalId":"part:starter","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The starter is an electric motor that initiates the engine's operation by turning it over when you turn the ignition key. A faulty starter can prevent the engine from starting altogether.","simplifiedExplanation":"The starter is a small motor that helps start the car's engine when you turn the key. If it breaks, the engine won't start at all."}},{"startTime":639.7,"endTime":643.3,"type":"term","title":"voltage","url":"/glossary/voltage","quote":"It can tell us the voltage and it can tell us whether or not it's low or it's high. It should be at roughly about 14.1, 14.2 volts when the car is running.","canonicalId":"term:voltage","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Voltage is a measure of the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. In automotive terms, it indicates the electrical power available from the battery and alternator.","simplifiedExplanation":"Voltage is like the pressure of electricity in the car. It tells us how much electrical power is available to run things like lights and the radio."}},{"startTime":734.1,"endTime":740.1,"type":"term","title":"coolant","url":"/glossary/coolant","quote":"And again, coolant. We talked about that. You don't have, again, when I got into this industry, you know, every 30,000 miles, you needed to you need to change your coolant.","canonicalId":"term:coolant","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Coolant is a fluid used in vehicles to regulate engine temperature and prevent overheating. It circulates through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat and dissipating it to maintain optimal operating temperatures.","simplifiedExplanation":"Coolant is a liquid that helps keep your car's engine from getting too hot. It moves around the engine and radiator to keep everything at the right temperature."}},{"startTime":1174.6,"endTime":1180.5,"type":"term","title":"AGM","url":"/glossary/agm","quote":"And the AG, you know, the new batteries are AGM and they're a lot more expensive and there's no fluid in them. So you they technically are supposed to last longer.","canonicalId":"term:agm","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"AGM stands for Absorbent Glass Mat, a type of lead-acid battery that is designed to be more durable and efficient than traditional flooded batteries. AGM batteries are sealed and do not contain liquid electrolyte, making them safer and less prone to leakage.","simplifiedExplanation":"AGM is a special kind of battery that doesn't spill and is made to last longer than regular batteries. It's often used in cars with advanced features like stop-start systems."}},{"startTime":1201.1,"endTime":1204.6,"type":"term","title":"stop-start feature","url":"/glossary/stop-start-feature","quote":"...especially if you have the stop, if you have the stop, start feature. Now, I personally do not like that feature.","canonicalId":"term:stop-start-feature","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The stop-start feature in vehicles automatically shuts off the engine when the car is idling, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it when the driver releases the brake. This technology helps improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"The stop-start feature is a system in some cars that turns off the engine when you're not moving, like at a red light, to save gas. It starts the engine again when you want to go."}},{"startTime":1248.2,"endTime":1252.6,"type":"term","title":"start-stop feature","url":"/glossary/start-stop-feature","quote":"...if you have that auto start and that start stop feature and you're going from, you know, here to work, but you're in traffic and it starts and stops 15 times on the way there...","canonicalId":"term:start-stop-feature","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The start-stop feature automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is idling, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it when the driver presses the accelerator. This technology aims to improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary engine running time.","simplifiedExplanation":"The start-stop feature helps save gas by turning off the engine when you're not moving, like when you're stopped in traffic. It starts the engine again when you want to go, which can help save fuel."}},{"startTime":1315.88,"endTime":1319.76,"type":"car","title":"Ford Fusion","url":"/cars/ford/fusion","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d8/2006_Ford_Fusion_--_NHTSA.jpg","quote":"I have a 2018 Ford Fusion. It has about 60,000 miles on the car...","canonicalId":"car:ford:fusion","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Fusion is a mid-size sedan that was produced by Ford from 2005 to 2020. It is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a variety of engine options.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Fusion is a type of car that is larger than a compact car but smaller than an SUV. It is designed for everyday use and is known for being comfortable and practical.","imageAttribution":"U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1353.6,"endTime":1357.0,"type":"term","title":"5W20","url":"/glossary/5w20","quote":"Ford suggests 5W20 in it.","canonicalId":"term:5w20","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"5W20 is a type of motor oil that indicates its viscosity. The '5' refers to the oil's flow at low temperatures, while '20' indicates its flow at high temperatures. This oil is commonly recommended for many modern vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"5W20 is a kind of oil used in cars. The numbers tell you how thick the oil is when it's cold and when it's hot, which helps the engine run smoothly."}},{"startTime":1358.2,"endTime":1363.8,"type":"term","title":"5W30","url":"/glossary/5w30","quote":"And they insist on using 5W30. They think that's going to give a little more protection.","canonicalId":"term:5w30","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"5W30 is a type of motor oil that indicates its viscosity. The '5W' refers to the oil's viscosity at low temperatures, while '30' refers to its viscosity at high temperatures. This oil is commonly used for better engine protection and performance in various conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"5W30 is a type of oil used in cars. The numbers tell you how thick the oil is when it's cold and when it's hot. It's important for keeping the engine running smoothly."}},{"startTime":1404.6,"endTime":1410.0,"type":"term","title":"manufacturer recommended oil","url":"/glossary/manufacturer-recommended-oil","quote":"However, we typically will just stick with what the manufacturer recommends simply because of, you know, liability issues.","canonicalId":"term:manufacturer-recommended-oil","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Manufacturer recommended oil refers to the specific type and viscosity of oil that a vehicle manufacturer suggests for optimal performance and protection of the engine. Using the recommended oil helps ensure the engine runs efficiently and maintains warranty coverage.","simplifiedExplanation":"Manufacturer recommended oil is the type of oil that the car maker says you should use in your vehicle. It's important to use this oil to keep the engine working well and to avoid problems."}},{"startTime":1440.3,"endTime":1446.6,"type":"term","title":"15W40","url":"/glossary/15w40","quote":"it was 10W30, 1540, maybe five, you know, I can't remember.","canonicalId":"term:15w40","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"15W40 is another multi-viscosity engine oil, suitable for warmer climates or heavy-duty applications. The '15W' indicates its viscosity at low temperatures, while '40' indicates its viscosity at high temperatures, providing good protection for engines under load.","simplifiedExplanation":"15W40 is a type of oil that helps car engines work well, especially in warmer weather. It keeps the engine safe when it's running hard."}},{"startTime":1440.3,"endTime":1446.6,"type":"term","title":"10W30","url":"/glossary/10w30","quote":"it was 10W30, 1540, maybe five, you know, I can't remember.","canonicalId":"term:10w30","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"10W30 is a multi-viscosity engine oil that performs well in a range of temperatures, providing adequate protection and lubrication for engines. The '10W' indicates its viscosity at low temperatures, while '30' indicates its viscosity at high temperatures.","simplifiedExplanation":"10W30 is a type of oil that helps keep car engines running smoothly in different temperatures. It works well when it's cold and when it's hot."}},{"startTime":1447.8,"endTime":1451.4,"type":"term","title":"0W8","url":"/glossary/0w8","quote":"I mean, now we're down to 0W8. The newer Toyotas are taking 0W.","canonicalId":"term:0w8","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"0W8 is a type of engine oil that has a low viscosity rating, indicating it flows easily at low temperatures, which can improve fuel efficiency. This oil is designed for modern engines that require thinner oils to reduce friction and improve performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"0W8 is a kind of oil used in cars that helps them run better, especially in cold weather. It's thinner than older oils, which helps save fuel."}},{"startTime":1477.2,"endTime":1480.2,"type":"term","title":"white smoke","url":"/glossary/white-smoke","quote":"...they have the prenotation that, oh, I'm not seeing any white smoke.","canonicalId":"term:white-smoke","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"White smoke from the exhaust can indicate that coolant is entering the combustion chamber, often due to a blown head gasket or other engine issues. This can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed promptly.","simplifiedExplanation":"If you notice white smoke coming from a car's exhaust, it could mean that something is wrong with the engine, like coolant leaking into it. This is usually a bad sign and should be checked out."}},{"startTime":1482.7,"endTime":1486.3,"type":"term","title":"black smoke","url":"/glossary/black-smoke","quote":"...you see a big puff of black smoke that that's that's carbon and some oil build up and they're kind of.","canonicalId":"term:black-smoke","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Black smoke from a vehicle's exhaust typically indicates that the engine is burning too much fuel, often due to a rich fuel mixture or incomplete combustion. This can be a sign of various issues, including problems with the fuel injectors or air intake system.","simplifiedExplanation":"If you see black smoke coming from a car's exhaust, it means the engine is using too much fuel. This can happen for a few reasons, and it's usually a sign that something might be wrong with the engine."}},{"startTime":1600.5,"endTime":1605.0,"type":"company","title":"GM","url":"/glossary/gm","quote":"...the most of your UPS trucks are GM engines, GM chassis, transmissions engines.","canonicalId":"company:gm","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"GM, or General Motors, is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, known for producing a wide range of vehicles under various brands, including Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac. They are also known for their innovations in automotive technology.","simplifiedExplanation":"GM stands for General Motors, a big company that makes many different cars and trucks. They are well-known for brands like Chevrolet and GMC."}},{"startTime":1969.9199999999998,"endTime":1977.5,"type":"car","title":"Ram 1500","url":"/cars/ram/1500","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3a/2025_RAM_1500_REV%2C_front_NYIAS_2023.jpg","quote":"...are you?  Good. My, my buddy has a 2016 Dodge Ram 1500.  And he's got heat that comes out the passenger ...","canonicalId":"car:ram:1500","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"imageAttribution":"Kevauto (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1969.9199999999998,"endTime":1977.5,"type":"car","title":"Dodge Ram","url":"/cars/dodge/ram","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e5/1999_Dodge_Ram_Cab_2500_4x4_stakebed.jpg","quote":"...my buddy has a 2016 Dodge Ram 1500. And he's got heat that comes out the passenger side, but not out of the driver's side...","canonicalId":"car:dodge:ram","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and versatile capabilities. It is popular among both work and recreational users due to its towing capacity and spacious interior.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Dodge Ram 1500 is a big truck that people use for work or to carry things. It's known for being strong and comfortable to drive.","imageAttribution":"Mr.choppers (CC BY-SA 3.0)"}},{"startTime":2043.1,"endTime":2049.4,"type":"part","title":"blend door actuator","url":"/glossary/blend-door-actuator","quote":"So the blend or motor or blend or actuator is bad on that vehicle. The problem is sometimes and Dodge is notorious for this.","canonicalId":"part:blend-door-actuator","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A blend door actuator is an electronic component in a vehicle's heating and air conditioning system that controls the flow of air through the system. It adjusts the position of the blend door, which mixes hot and cold air to achieve the desired cabin temperature.","simplifiedExplanation":"The blend door actuator is a small part that helps control the temperature inside your car by mixing hot and cold air. If it breaks, you might not be able to get the right temperature in your car."}},{"startTime":2263.46,"endTime":2266.5,"type":"car","title":"GMC Safari","url":"/cars/gmc/safari","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/09/1986_GMC_Safari.jpg","quote":"... you know, changing the oil,  I've got a 2002 GMC safari.  I change your oil every 3,000 miles.","canonicalId":"car:gmc:safari","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The GMC Safari is a mid-size van that was produced from 1985 to 2005, known for its utility and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families and commercial use. Discussions about the Safari often revolve around its practicality and the longevity of its design.","simplifiedExplanation":"The GMC Safari is a van that can fit a lot of people and cargo, making it great for families or work. It's built to be tough and last a long time, which is why some people still use it today.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2476.9,"endTime":2479.98,"type":"car","title":"Honda Civic","url":"/cars/honda/civic","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/23/2022_Honda_Civic_LX_Sedan%2C_front_right%2C_11-02-2022.jpg","quote":"...hat,  you know, I mean, my my I have a 2000 Honda Civic.  It still takes conventional oil, right?","canonicalId":"car:honda:civic","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"imageAttribution":"MercurySable99 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2476.9,"endTime":2479.98,"type":"car","title":"Honda 2000 Honda","url":"/cars/honda/s2000","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5a/Honda_S2000%2C_Pau_2015.jpg","quote":"...re people that,  you know, I mean, my my I have a 2000 Honda Civic.  It still takes conventional oil, right?","canonicalId":"car:honda:s2000","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda S2000 is a two-seat roadster that was produced from 1999 to 2009, known for its high-revving engine and exceptional handling. It has gained a cult following due to its performance and driving experience, often discussed among enthusiasts for its balance and agility.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda S2000 is a small sports car that people love for how fun it is to drive. It has a powerful engine that can go really fast and is known for being very responsive on the road.","imageAttribution":"Handelsgeselschaft (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2555.0,"endTime":2556.9,"type":"term","title":"depreciating asset","url":"/glossary/depreciating-asset","quote":"...it's a depreciating asset rate. It's going to go down. You're going to lose value in it.","canonicalId":"term:depreciating-asset","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A depreciating asset is an item whose value decreases over time, often due to wear and tear or market conditions. In the context of vehicles, this means that as you use your car, its resale value will typically drop.","simplifiedExplanation":"A depreciating asset is something that loses value as time goes on. For cars, this means that the longer you own it, the less it's worth when you try to sell it later."}},{"startTime":2685.12,"endTime":2688.22,"type":"car","title":"GMC Yukon","url":"/cars/gmc/yukon","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d0/GMC_Yukon_Denali_%28GMTK2UG%29_Washington_DC_Metro_Area%2C_USA.jpg","quote":"...I'm kind of afraid.  I've got a five year old GMC Yukon.  OK, I've got 73,000 miles on it.","canonicalId":"car:gmc:yukon","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that offers a spacious interior, powerful engine options, and a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for families and those needing towing capacity. Its reputation for reliability and versatility often leads to discussions about its performance over time.","simplifiedExplanation":"The GMC Yukon is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's known for being strong and good for families, but some people worry about how it will hold up as it gets older.","imageAttribution":"OWS Photography (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2740.1,"endTime":2744.4,"type":"term","title":"main bearing issue","url":"/glossary/main-bearing-issue","quote":"But right, the new Yukon's, and this is no lie, the newer Yukon's are the engines are failing before they even leave the dealership lot. We had one not too long.","canonicalId":"term:main-bearing-issue","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A main bearing issue refers to a failure in the bearings that support the crankshaft in an engine. This can lead to severe engine damage, including complete engine failure if not addressed promptly.","simplifiedExplanation":"A main bearing issue happens when the part that helps the engine's moving parts turn smoothly fails. This can cause serious problems and might even stop the engine from working."}},{"startTime":2925.6,"endTime":2930.0,"type":"brand","title":"Toyota","url":"/glossary/toyota","quote":"...as long as what this one does? Toyota's or are they having trouble with with all all the other cars? Oh, um, no. Toyotas are not. I like toyotas.","canonicalId":"brand:toyota","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Toyota is a well-known automotive brand recognized for its reliability and longevity. Many Toyota models are praised for their durability and lower maintenance issues compared to other brands.","simplifiedExplanation":"Toyota is a car company famous for making reliable cars that last a long time without many problems."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"55KRC (WKRC-AM)","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-car-show-with-dane-donovan-12-6-2025/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}