This week on Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron takes a closer look at one of the biggest questions facing drivers today: What does it really cost to own a vehicle? Inspired by listener reaction to last week's discussion of a $16,000 transmission replacement, Ron explores the difficult decisions vehicle owners face when major repairs collide with rising new-car prices, extended warranties, and long-term ownership plans.
Along the way, Ron explains why proper diagnosis matters more than ever, using a real-world air conditioning repair story to highlight the difference between simply adding refrigerant and actually finding the root cause of a problem. He also discusses the growing complexity of modern vehicles, the rising cost of repair equipment and technology, and why choosing the right repair shop has become just as important as choosing the right vehicle.
Ron then helps listeners solve a variety of automotive issues, including a Chevrolet Silverado with an ignition key that won't release, questions about GM's Active Fuel Management system and whether it's worth deleting, and advice for a listener considering a new vehicle purchase.
If you've ever wondered whether to repair, replace, or keep driving what you have, this episode is for you.
Car Advice Done Right.
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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Classic Car Doctor - October 10, 2015 - Hour 2 - You Love Your Car More Than You ThinkFrom the Car Doctor archives — originally aired October 2015. In this classic episode of Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor, Ron opens the hour with a thoughtful discussion about the emotional connection we develop with our vehicles—often without realizing just how attached we've become. Whether it's the family car that's been through years of memories or the vehicle that always seems to get us home, cars become more than machines. Ron then helps a caller diagnose cooling system problems on a 2007 Mercury Mountaineer and takes a call from a 2013 Toyota Highlander owner whose wheels were nearly left loose after a routine oil change, leading to an important conversation about trust, quality workmanship, and paying attention after service. Also featured is an interview with Derek Miller from ALLDATA, discussing vehicle repair information, diagnostic resources, and the growing complexity of modern automobiles. Ron rounds out the hour by answering listener emails about choosing the right OBD-II scan tool and diagnosing hesitation and rough idle concerns on a Toyota. A great mix of automotive advice, consumer awareness, and a reminder that our relationship with our cars is often more personal than we think.
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Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - Classic Car Doctor - October 10, 2015 - Hour 1 - Audi Codes, Airbags & Frozen Custard
36:38

Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - May 30, 2026 - Hour 2 - Maintenance, Diagnostics & 110 MPH at Wall Stadium
34:48