The Car Show with Dale and Dane Donovan

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 5/30/2026

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May 31, 2026 43 min 51 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 5/23/2026

As the unofficial start of summer approaches, car owners are gearing up for road trips and long drives. But before hitting the open road, it's essential to make sure your vehicle is ready for the heat. This week on the Car Show, host Dane Donovan emphasizes the importance of getting your car inspected and prepared for the summer season. He shares stories of customers who've experienced car troubles on the road, including a young couple stranded in Cincinnati after their transmission failed, and a woman who needed all four brake pads replaced before her road trip to New York.Dane discusses the need to check and maintain essential components like air conditioning, tires, and fluids, and warns listeners about the dangers of neglecting routine maintenance. He also shares tips on how to prepare for emergencies, such as carrying a roadside emergency kit and knowing how to jump-start a dead battery. Additionally, Dane addresses common issues like software glitches in new cars and the importance of using original equipment manufacturer parts.The episode also features a Q&A session with listeners, including a caller who's experiencing a software issue with his car's start-stop feature and another who's concerned about oil consumption in his Kia. Dane offers advice and guidance on how to troubleshoot and resolve these issues.If you're planning a road trip or just want to ensure your car is running smoothly, tune in to this episode of the Car Show to learn more about the importance of summer car maintenance and how to prepare for any unexpected car troubles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 24, 2026 41 min 38 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 5/16/2026

This week on the car show, Dane Donovan from Donovan's Auto Care is sharing some valuable insights on car maintenance and repair. He's also giving away a free AC service to listeners who bring their vehicles in for an inspection. But that's not all - Dane is also talking about the importance of understanding how your car's AC system works, and how it can be a complex and frustrating process to diagnose and repair. Dane is joined by several callers who have questions about their own car issues, including a gentleman who wants to replace just the AC clutch on his compressor, and a woman who's concerned about her Kia Soul's oil consumption. Dane offers some sage advice on how to maintain your car's engine and prevent costly repairs down the line. He also recommends checking your oil level regularly, especially if you have a Kia or Hyundai, as these vehicles are prone to oil consumption. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of understanding how your car's AC system works. Dane explains that it's not just a matter of filling up the system with freon, but rather a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. He also talks about the common issue of oil consumption in newer vehicles, and how it can lead to costly repairs if not addressed. If you're a car owner who's ever wondered why your AC isn't working, or why your oil light is on, this episode is a must-listen. Dane offers some practical advice and insights that will help you understand your car's systems and prevent costly repairs. Tune in to hear the full episode and learn how to keep your car running smoothly all summer long.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 17, 2026 43 min 57 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 5/9/2026

Dane Donovan takes your car questions and shares a special promotion at Donovan's Auto Center. He talks about a customer's loyalty and how it's a testament to the business's commitment to customer satisfaction. Dane also discusses a caller's issue with a leaky sunroof drain and recommends a local expert, Jerry, who specializes in water-related car problems. Additionally, he answers questions about tire dry rot and engine issues, offering advice on when to replace tires and how to diagnose engine problems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 10, 2026 42 min 53 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 5/2/2026

Dane Donovan answers questions from listeners, including Jim, who's got a spark issue with his 88 Chevy Silverado, and Rob, who's dealing with a stubborn auto window on his 2005 Honda Accord. Dane shares some valuable tips and tricks, from checking fuses to replacing the distributor assembly. He also talks about the importance of regular maintenance, like brake fluid checks and transmission flushes. With his expertise and friendly demeanor, Dane makes car repair less intimidating and more accessible.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 03, 2026 37 min 68 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 4/25/2026

Dane Donovan discusses car maintenance and repair. He talks about the importance of checking tire pressure and fluids, especially with the upcoming warmer weather. Dane also shares a personal story about his own car troubles and how he learned to replace his drive shaft. He answers listener questions, including one about a Honda CRV with a vibration issue and another about a Toyota Tacoma's potential maintenance needs. Additionally, Dane recommends a local business, Water Doctor Cincinnati, for fixing water leaks in vehicles.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 26, 2026 43 min 71 annotations

THE Car Show with Dane Donovan - 4/18/2026

This episode of the Car Show features Dane Donovan answering listener questions and sharing his expertise on various car-related topics. He discusses the importance of regular oil changes, recommending to change oil every 5,000 to 6,000 miles, and warns against waiting until the oil life percentage drops to 15%. Dane also talks about hybrid cars, recommending the Toyota Prius as a reliable option, and shares his experience with a customer who had issues with a Honda Pilot's oil change schedule. Additionally, he offers advice on battery maintenance and discusses the benefits of using a glass mat battery.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 19, 2026 45 min 69 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 4/11/2026

This episode of the car show covers a range of topics, from a caller's concern about a 1987 Chevrolet El Camino with a mysterious gas smell to a discussion about the importance of proper tire rotation. Host Dane Donovan also chats with a caller about a 2006 Porsche Boxter, sharing his expertise on maintenance and repair. Additionally, he addresses a listener's question about a 2015 Nissan Rogue's all-wheel drive issue and offers advice on how to navigate a dispute with a tire store. The episode wraps up with a conversation about the benefits of visiting a local, independent repair shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 11, 2026 45 min 29 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 4/4/2026

Dane Donovan shares valuable insights on car maintenance and ownership. He discusses the importance of regular oil changes, citing a personal experience where switching to synthetic oil affected his fuel economy. Dane also addresses a caller's question about whether to use synthetic or conventional oil in their Subaru engine, recommending sticking to what the manufacturer designed the car to use. Additionally, he offers advice on choosing a new car, highlighting the benefits of Honda and Toyota models.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 05, 2026 44 min 31 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 3/28/2026

Dane Donovan shares tips on how to prepare your vehicle for spring break and summer trips. He emphasizes the importance of checking your air conditioning, tire pressure, and brake fluid levels. Dane also discusses the benefits of regular maintenance, citing a personal experience where a friend's car had multiple issues due to neglected maintenance. The episode also features a caller, Wayne, who asks for advice on a brake issue with his 2014 Chevrolet Camaro.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 29, 2026 42 min 32 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 3/21/2026

Dane Donovan tackles the challenges of resurrecting old cars. He shares a personal story about a customer who tried to revive an eighty-five Mazda RX, highlighting the importance of inspecting a vehicle before purchasing. Dane also discusses the risks of leaving cars parked outside, where they can be damaged by rodents and moisture. He advises listeners to drive their vehicles regularly or store them in a garage to prevent costly repairs. Dane takes calls from listeners, offering expert advice on car maintenance and repair.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 22, 2026 44 min 30 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 3/14/2026

Dane Donovan takes your car questions. He shares a story about a customer's car that had been sitting for a month, and how he helped her get back on the road. Dane also discusses the importance of regular oil changes and the benefits of using seafoam to prevent engine issues. He also talks about the difference between older and newer cars, including the use of AGM batteries and the challenges of working with complex computer systems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 21, 2026 40 min 29 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 2/15/2026

In this episode of the Car Show, Dane Donovan tackles the importance of protecting your vehicle from the harsh winter elements. He shares a personal story about his own experience with rust on his 2007 Ford F-150, which highlights the dangers of neglecting to remove salt and brine from your vehicle's underbody. Dane emphasizes the need to prioritize underbody washing, especially during the winter months, to prevent rust from forming and prolong the life of your vehicle. He also discusses the importance of checking for recalls on used vehicles and offers advice on how to diagnose and fix issues with your car's power steering system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 15, 2026 44 min 28 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 2/7/2026

Dane Donovan tackles common car issues and shares expert advice. He discusses software glitches in modern vehicles, explaining how to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the problem. Dane also shares a personal anecdote about buying a new vehicle and the importance of regular oil changes. He emphasizes that changing oil every 5,000 miles can extend a car's lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Additionally, Dane answers listener questions, offering solutions to issues with a Honda Odyssey's power steering and a Kia Optima's oil consumption.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 08, 2026 43 min 33 annotations

THE Car Show with Dane Donovan - 1/24/2026

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.

Jan 25, 2026 42 min 33 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 1/17/2026

In this episode of the car show, host Dane Donovan dives into the importance of inspecting a used vehicle before purchasing. He shares a personal story about a friend who bought a pre-owned Lexus with a clean Carfax report but still had significant front-end damage. Dane emphasizes the need to go beyond just checking the Carfax report and to have a professional inspection done. He also discusses the risks of buying a vehicle with a turbocharged engine, citing issues with oil consumption and the importance of regular oil checks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 18, 2026 44 min 33 annotations

THE Car Show with Dane Donovan - 1/10/2026

Dane Donovan discusses the importance of prolonging the life of your vehicle. He shares a personal story about his own experience with a Honda Odyssey in Florida, highlighting the need to stay on top of maintenance tasks like oil changes and tire rotations. Dane also talks about the rising cost of new cars and the need to make smart decisions to save money and protect your investment. He takes calls from listeners, offering advice on how to keep your car running smoothly and shares tips on how to identify potential issues before they become major problems.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 11, 2026 43 min 33 annotations

THE Car Show with Dane Donovan 1/3/2026

Dane talks about car batteries and their typical lifespan. He shares a personal experience with his wife's dead battery, which got him thinking about the importance of getting batteries tested. Dan explains that batteries in this region usually last around three to four years, and it's crucial to get them checked before they die. He also announces exciting news about the expansion of Donovan's Auto Repair, with a new location opening in the Montgomery Road area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan 04, 2026 18 min 25 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 12/27/2025

In this episode of the car show, Dane shares his expertise on used car inspections and the importance of getting a mechanic's opinion before making a purchase. He shares a personal story about a customer who bought a certified pre-owned Lexus with low miles, only to discover hidden damage. He emphasizes the need to inspect a used vehicle thoroughly, especially when buying from out-of-state. He also discusses the pros and cons of buying an extended factory warranty and warns against after-market warranties. Dane takes calls from listeners, answering questions on oil consumption, rust protection, and brake fluid maintenance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 28, 2025 46 min 33 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan - 12/20/2025

In this episode of the car show, Dane Donovan answers listener questions and shares expert advice on car maintenance and repair. He discusses how to prolong the life of wiper blades, recommending the use of Rain X and proper cleaning techniques. Dane also helps a caller with a noisy engine, suggesting the use of Lucas oil treatment and Bars Leak products to potentially extend the life of the engine. Additionally, he addresses a caller's issue with a drifting vehicle, attributing the problem to a radial tire pull and recommending tire replacement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 21, 2025 42 min 27 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 12/13/2025

On this episode of the car show, host Dame Donovan takes calls from listeners with car-related questions. Bill shares a shocking story about buying a used truck with a mileage discrepancy, and Dame offers advice on how to handle the situation. Meanwhile, Larry suggests a creative solution to Bill's problem, and Dame discusses the importance of getting a car inspected before buying. The conversation also touches on car maintenance, including mufflers and fuel injectors, and Dame shares a personal story about a customer's positive experience at his shop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dec 14, 2025 45 min 30 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 12/6/2025

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.

Dec 07, 2025 45 min 30 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 11/29/2025

# Car Talk with Dane Donovan: Winter Prep & Holiday Car TipsAre your wheels ready for winter? In this episode, Dane Donovan shares essential advice for preparing your vehicle for the cold months ahead. From the importance of timely inspections to why those wiper blades you've been ignoring might leave you stranded in a snowstorm, Dane offers practical wisdom from his 25 years in the auto repair business.The automotive landscape has changed dramatically since Donovan's Auto & Tire Center opened 66 years ago. Remember when everyone rushed to put on snow tires the day after Thanksgiving? Today's vehicles have different needs, but winter preparation remains crucial. Dane explains why the sudden temperature drops we experience can wreak havoc on cars and why waiting until the first snowfall for new tires might leave you stuck in a long queue.## Timestamps:- 3:45 - Winter car preparation essentials and how maintenance needs have evolved- 11:30 - Trailer tire problems and why they don't last- 18:20 - Solving gas tank pressure issues in a 2008 Chevy Silverado- 27:15 - Electronics troubleshooting in an '06 Escalade- 33:40 - Fuse problems and upgrading amperage safely- 36:15 - Bizarre starter issue in a '98 4Runner that starts without a key## Key Takeaways:- Don't wait for the first snowfall to check your tires and other winter-critical systems- Modern cars need different maintenance than older vehicles, but winter checks remain essential- When doing DIY repairs, invest in quality OEM parts to avoid repeated failures- Trailer tires typically don't last long - consider light truck tires as an alternative- Rodents can cause extensive electrical damage to vehicles, especially those that sit unusedIs your college student home for the holidays? Schedule their car maintenance now before the rush. Remember that Donovan's offers shuttle services and sometimes even loaner vehicles to make the process as convenient as possible.Ready to get your vehicle winter-ready? Visit donovantire.com to find the location nearest you and schedule your winter inspection today!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 30, 2025 45 min 34 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 11/22/2025

# Car Talk with Dane Donovan: Preparing Your Vehicle for Holiday TravelAre you ready for holiday road trips? In this episode, Dane Donovan from Donovan's Auto & Tire Center tackles crucial winter maintenance issues just in time for Thanksgiving travel. From ensuring your heating system works properly to understanding those persistent check engine lights, Dane shares practical advice that could save you from roadside emergencies. He also debunks common maintenance myths, addresses headlight problems, and reveals the truth about oil change intervals that manufacturers won't tell you.The episode opens with Dane urging listeners to test their car's heating system now, before temperatures plummet. "Just turn the heat on and make sure it's working," he advises, noting that modern vehicles have complex climate control systems with multiple potential failure points. With winter approaching, this simple check could prevent a freezing emergency later.## Timestamps and Key Takeaways:**5:30** - Check Engine Light Reality: Dane confesses that every vehicle he owns currently has or has had a check engine light on, proving these warnings are common across all vehicle ages.**12:45** - Water Pump Replacement: Caller Scott asks about a $1,500 water pump replacement recommendation for his Honda. Dane explains why this preventative maintenance isn't necessary unless there's an actual leak.**28:20** - Headlight Socket Issues: Ray calls about his daughter's Buick headlight problems. Dane identifies GM socket failures as a common issue rather than the bulb itself.**38:15** - Oil Filter Pre-filling Myth: Randy asks if oil filters should be filled before installation. Dane explains why this old practice isn't necessary with modern engines.**45:30** - Oil Change Intervals: The most passionate segment where Dane recommends 5,000-mile oil changes regardless of manufacturer recommendations, explaining how this simple maintenance can help vehicles reach 300,000+ miles.Whether you're planning a cross-country journey or just visiting family across town this holiday season, this episode provides essential maintenance tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Listen now to ensure your car is ready for whatever winter throws your way!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nov 23, 2025 44 min 30 annotations

The Car Show with Dane Donovan 11/15/2025