Is a transmission service the fix your car needs—or can it make things worse? In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio and John Riggle dive deep into one of the most common questions drivers have: “Will a transmission service fix my car?”We break down:When a transmission service can actually solve issues (like torque converter shudder on Chevy Colorados).When it won’t help—or could even make problems worse.Why modern cars don’t have dipsticks (and why “sealed transmissions” are a myth).The real rule of thumb for how often you should service your transmission.Why a bad service can be worse than no service at all.If you’ve ever wondered about transmission maintenance, fluid changes, or factory service recommendations, this episode is packed with insights that could save you time, money, and frustration.🔧 Key Takeaways:Service intervals: about every 50,000 miles (with exceptions).Signs of bad fluid and what it means for your transmission’s health.How improper service leads to costly mistakes.Why you can’t always trust the factory manual.🚗 Whether you’re a car owner, DIY enthusiast, or just curious about how your vehicle works, this episode helps you understand when to service your transmission—and when not to.
Can your car go 200,000+ miles? Spoiler: yes, if you treat it right. Host Dave Riccio with Tri-City Transmission and Auto Repair sits down with Spencer Doucet, owner of H&I Automotive with 3 locations (Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, AZ), to talk modern vehicle longevity, the “maintenance mindset,” and why a well-cared-for 150k-mile ride can beat a neglected 80k “jalopy.” Dave and Spenser have been long-time friends, starting with their time on Bumper to Bumper Radio on New 92.3 KTAR, Arizona’s number one news talk.
In this episode:
Why the average car age is ~13.5 years and 200k miles is totally achievable.
The real cost comparison: big repair vs. “just buy a different used car”
The transmission failure bell curve (100k–150k–200k) and what that means for you
Arizona-specific maintenance: oil every ~5,000 miles; other key fluids ~30,000 miles
How minor fixes (door handles, dents, trim) keep you proud—and keep you maintaining
Budgeting smart: set aside ~$150–$175/mo per car for maintenance & repairs
Building a relationship with a trustworthy shop vs. chasing coupons
Quick checklist to make your car last:
✅ Follow routine oil & fluid intervals (especially in hot climates)
✅ Fix little issues early—don’t let them snowball
✅ Keep it clean inside & out (you’ll treat it better)
✅ Save monthly for upcoming services
✅ Stick with one reputable shop that knows your car’s history
Guests & Shops Mentioned:
H&I Automotive — Mesa • Gilbert • Queen Creek https://handiautomotive.com/in/
Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair — Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler and the East Valley
If this helped, like, subscribe, and share with a friend who’s deciding between repairing or replacing their car.
om Washing Cars to Owning 3 Shops: Spencer's Journey in the Auto Repair World 🚘
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, host Dave Riccio sits down with Spencer Doucet, Owner of H & I Automotive, to explore his incredible journey from washing cars at a dealership to owning three successful auto repair shops.
Spencer Doucet, a regular guest on the Bumper to Bumper Radio show on 92.3 KTAR Saturdays at 11:00, shares his journey into automotive repair.
Why he laughed at the idea of becoming a mechanic in high school 😆
How initiative and a “beginner’s mind” helped him level up fast
What it was like rebuilding engines as a lube tech at 19 🔧
Why you don’t need a $50K degree to succeed in the industry
Lessons on growth, mentorship, and keeping your ego in check
How the 2008 recession pushed him to open his first shop in Mesa
The power of slowing down to go faster and build a lasting business
If you’re curious about a career in automotive repair or want to hear how grit, humility, and curiosity can turn into a thriving business, this episode is a must-listen. If you are already in the automotive industry, this episode will bring back memories of your journey.
Spencer’s Story is inspirational for anyone wanting to open their own automotive shop. He has proven that patience, passion, and determination are the road to success.
Thinking about buying a used car? Don’t make a costly mistake. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle (with 75+ years of combined auto experience) break down the real truth about used car shopping.They cover:✅ Why so many used cars end up for sale✅ How to budget for unexpected repairs✅ Certified pre-owned vs private party deals✅ The danger of salvage titles & auction cars✅ Why that “great deal” might be hiding thousands in repairsWhether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned car owner, this episode will help you make smarter, safer, and more cost-effective decisions.👍 Like & Subscribe for more weekly insights on car care and smart ownership.#UsedCarBuying #CarAdvice #AutoRepair #CarShoppingTips #BumperToBumperPodcast
Think your car battery is fine just because your engine starts? Think again. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and John Riggle dive deep into how a seemingly "okay" battery can cause serious problems across your entire vehicle—especially your transmission.From adaptation issues and solenoid failures to corrupted long-term memory in your car’s computer, we explain why battery health is way more important than most drivers realize. We also cover:🔋 How a weak battery affects shift adaptations🧠 What “keepalive memory” is and how it works⚙️ Why throttle bodies, fuel pumps, and alternators adapt over time💡 The real reason you need to register a new battery on modern vehicles🛠️ Real shop stories where a bad battery was the root of major issuesIf you're in a hot climate like Arizona, or just trying to avoid costly repairs, this episode is a must-watch.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, host Dave Riccio sits down with Josh Dana of Dana Brothers Diesel to break down everything you thought you knew about diesel engines—and what you actually need to know.From modern diesel myths and real maintenance tips, to why DEF fluid placement matters (a lot), this episode is packed with must-hear advice for diesel owners new and old. Learn the dos and don'ts of diesel repair, why newer diesels are cleaner and more efficient than ever, and how a simple mistake can cost you thousands.Topics Covered:Common diesel misconceptionsHow long modern diesel engines can lastWhy changing your oil every 5K miles is non-negotiableThe #1 costly mistake diesel owners makeHow fuel additives can save your engineWhy tuning and mods can be a slippery slopeWhat tools can protect your investment while towing👨🔧 Whether you're hauling 15,000 lbs or daily-driving a diesel SUV, this episode will help you make smarter decisions and avoid expensive mistakes.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper podcast, Dave Riccio sits down with Tyler Turdo from Dynamic Tint to talk about everything you didn’t know you needed to know about protecting your car.We cover:✅ What paint protection film (PPF) is and why it's more than just a "clear bra"✅ How ceramic coatings protect your paint, plastics, and even wheels✅ The truth about windshield tinting — is it legal? ✅ Why tinting isn’t just for looks — it protects you and your dashboard✅ Real talk about pricing, quality installs, and what to expect from a legit shop✅ How personalization (like color PPF) is changing the game for new car ownersWhether you drive a Toyota Tacoma or a Tesla, this episode will help you understand how to keep your ride looking showroom-fresh for years.🔗 Learn more: https://dynamictintaz.com/Located near Tempe Marketplace in Tempe, Arizona
It’s getting hot out there — especially in Phoenix, Arizona — and that means auto shops are flooded with air conditioning complaints. But did you know most A/C problems are misdiagnosed because of poor communication?In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle break down:-The #1 reason cars come back to the shop after A/C service-Why “not cold enough” doesn’t always mean low refrigerant-How airflow and cabin filters play a bigger role than you think-Why vague complaints like “my A/C isn’t working” can lead to the wrong repairs-What to say when you call a shop for air conditioning service-Common myths about A/C performance and refrigerant leaks-Real stories from the shop (including a flickering control panel and a missing cabin filter door)🎧 Whether your car blows hot air, weak air, or cool-but-not-cold air, this episode will help you better understand how to communicate the problem and get it fixed right the first time.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle dive deep into one of the most overlooked but critical aspects of car care: engine oil maintenance.You’ll hear about:Why 5,000-mile oil changes are still the gold standardWhat oil monitoring systems can’t tell youHow modern engines are quietly burning oil without warningThe truth about oil consumption and what’s “normal”A real-life case study of oil loss and check engine lightsWhy you should never underestimate the value of a good oil changeHow bad PCV systems and oil leaks sneak up on youWhether you’re a seasoned car owner or just learning the ropes, this episode is packed with practical knowledge to help extend your engine’s life and avoid costly repairs.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle break down one of the most common ways people waste money at the auto shop: confusing maintenance with repairs.They share real stories, expert tips, and practical advice on how to clearly communicate with your technician — and how that can save you money, time, and frustration.Topics Covered:- The difference between maintenance and repairs- Why saying “I need a transmission flush” might be a costly mistake- What to say when calling the shop: symptoms vs assumptions- Why communication is more important than coupons- How test drives and diagnostics work behind the scenes- Real shop examples that saved customers thousandsGoing into a shop and saying “I need a brake job” might sound helpful — but describing what your car is doing (like “the brakes squeal when I stop”) will lead to better results, faster fixes, and less money wasted.Brought to you by Tri-City Transmission and Auto Repair
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle break down what really happens when you skip or cheap out on your oil change — and why that “$39.99 deal” might cost you a $30,000 engine.With 75+ years of combined experience, they uncover:- How often you should change your oil (and why 5,000 miles is the magic number)- The danger of waiting for your oil life monitor to warn you- Why high heat, short trips, and oil consumption can kill your engine- What to ask before accepting a cheap oil change deal- The big difference between quality vs. cheap oil and filters- Real-world case: a Mustang with a $30K engine failure from neglected oilGot a car question you’d like answered on the podcast? Drop it in the comments or use the link in the description!Powered by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair#oilchange #carmaintenance #autorepair #bumpertobumperradio #bumpertobumperpodcast #autoshop
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle uncover the real role your car’s battery plays — and why even a battery that “starts the car just fine” could be causing serious, hidden issues.From erratic transmission shifting to electrical gremlins and memory loss in your vehicle's systems, this episode reveals how a weak or corroded battery can lead to major (and expensive) problems.What you'll learn in this episode:- Why a car that starts might still have a bad battery- How low battery voltage causes hard shifts, no-starts, or false transmission diagnoses- The truth about battery lifespan in hot climates (like Arizona)- OEM vs. cheap aftermarket batteries: what's the difference?- How corrosion destroys wiring — and how to prevent it- Real shop stories where a simple battery fix saved thousands in unnecessary repairsGot a car question you want featured? Tap the link below!Brought to you by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair#carbattery #carmaintenance #autorepair #bumpertobumperradio #bumpertobumperpodcast
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle break down one of the most common — and most misunderstood — reasons your check engine light might be on: the P0420 code.
Whether you've been quoted $3,000 for a new catalytic converter or you're wondering if a $69 aftermarket part from Amazon will do the trick, this episode dives deep into:
What a catalytic converter actually does (and how it works)
- Why the P0420 "catalyst efficiency" code is so common
- The difference between OEM vs. aftermarket converters
- The role of precious metals like platinum and rhodium (and why they drive theft)- When it’s worth paying more — and when it’s not
- How emissions testing and onboard diagnostics have changed
If you've ever heard "your cat is bad" and didn't know what that meant (or why it's so pricey), this episode will give you the clarity you need to make a smart, informed decision.
#catalyticconverter #p0420 #checkenginelight #bumpertobumperradio
Powered by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper radio and Jon Riggle dive deep into one of the most misunderstood components in your car: the oxygen sensor (O2 sensor).
If your check engine light’s ever come on and the parts store told you it’s “just an O2 sensor,” you’ll want to hear this. The guys break down:
- What an O2 sensor actually does (and doesn’t do)
- The difference between O2 sensors and air-fuel ratio sensors
- Why replacing one might not fix your check engine light
- What "lean codes" (P0171, P0174) actually mean
- How false O2 sensor diagnosis cost drivers money
Get a clearer understanding of your car's emissions system, and why a simple parts scan at the auto parts store might be giving you the wrong idea. With real-world examples and expert insight, this episode will help you make smarter decisions when you're hit with an O2 sensor code.
Brought to you by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair
#checkenginelight #autorepairpodcast #carrepair #p0171
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio - Co Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle explore one of the most misunderstood topics in auto repair: transmission diagnostics and the art of the targeted repair.
From Hyundai Genesis cases with no reverse, to bad check balls and spun bushings, Dave and Jon share real-world examples where deep diagnostic work saved customers thousands — avoiding unnecessary replacements or rebuilds. If you've ever been told "you need a new transmission," this episode will open your eyes.
What you'll learn in this episode:
- What a targeted transmission repair really is
- Why most transmission quotes over the phone are misleading
- The difference between general repair and transmission expertise
- How to spot and prevent misdiagnoses
- What really goes into a proper transmission diagnostic process
- The importance of TSBs, road testing, and verifying the real root cause
This podcast is for car owners, mechanics, and shop owners alike who want to save time, money, and frustration when it comes to one of the most expensive parts of the car.
Want your car question featured?
Tap the link below to send us a message — we might answer it on the next episode!
#transmissionrepair #autorepairtips #carmaintenance #BumperToBumperPodcast
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, hosts Dave Riccio, Co-Creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio and Jon Riggle pull back the curtain on what actually goes into a transmission diagnostic — and why it's one of the most misunderstood parts of auto repair.
From road tests and scan tools to technical service bulletins (TSBs) and fluid checks, this episode breaks down the real diagnostic process step-by-step — saving customers from unnecessary transmission replacements that could cost thousands.
In this episode, we cover:
- Why most transmission quotes are guesses without a proper diagnostic- The danger of misdiagnosing complex transmission issues
- Real stories from the shop (including a $10K fix that only cost $1K!)
- How we use TSBs, scan tools, and real-time road testing
- Why asking the right questions is key to fixing your vehicle
Powered by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair
#carrepairtips #autorepair #bumpertobumperpodcast