The Car Show with Dale and Dane Donovan

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