Welcome to the Bumper to Bumper Podcast — your go-to source for real talk about car repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and everything in between. Hosted by Dave Riccio and John Riggle of Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair, this show gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how shops actually work, the truth about repairs, and what you need to know to avoid getting ripped off. Whether you're a car owner who wants to stay informed or just curious about the automotive world, we break it down in simple terms with real stories, expert advice, and the occasional laugh.
🚗 Not sure if your car is worth fixing? Get an honest second opinion from the experts at Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair 👉 https://tricitytransmission.comShould you repair your car or replace it? It's one of the biggest financial decisions most drivers face and the answer isn't always what you think.In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle explain how to determine whether a major repair actually makes financial sense. They break down real-world examples of $3,000, $4,000, and even $6,000 repairs, explain why replacing your vehicle can sometimes cost far more than fixing it, and discuss the hidden risks of buying another used car.Use Our Repair or Replace Calculator 👉 https://tricitytransmission.com/repair-replace-calculator/Follow Bumper to Bumper Podcast:Website: https://bumpertobumperradiopodcast.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bumpertobumperpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumpertobumperpodcast/Subscribe and Listen to Bumper to Bumper Podcast Here!Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55E5tR13DlyeLRy0rfqEWQApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bumper-to-bumper-podcast/id1811679572
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle explain how CV axles (constant velocity axles) fail, the warning signs of a bad axle shaft, and why replacing a quality factory axle with a cheap aftermarket part can create even bigger problems.Whether you drive a Honda CR-V, Ford, Jeep, or virtually any front-wheel-drive vehicle, understanding how CV joints and axle shafts work can help you avoid unnecessary repairs and keep your vehicle driving like new. Follow Bumper to Bumper Podcast:Website: https://bumpertobumperradiopodcast.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bumpertobumperpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumpertobumperpodcast/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55E5tR13DlyeLRy0rfqEWQApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bumper-to-bumper-podcast/id1811679572Ask us a car question! https://forms.gle/h2fJdqEJFcycJTCw5 ABOUT US:Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair - Tempe, Arizona - Arizona's Oldest Transmission ShopVisit us at: https://tricitytransmission.comStarted on KTAR News 92.3, now here on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.The Bumper to Bumper podcast puts you in the know when it comes to your car. For more information about our hosts, Dave Riccio - davericcio.com
Is your car getting worse gas mileage than it used to? Before assuming something is wrong, there are a few things every driver should check.In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle explain what actually causes poor fuel economy, how to accurately calculate your MPG, and when a drop in gas mileage is serious enough to have your vehicle inspected.Follow Bumper to Bumper Podcast:Website: https://bumpertobumperradiopodcast.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bumpertobumperpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumpertobumperpodcast/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55E5tR13DlyeLRy0rfqEWQApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bumper-to-bumper-podcast/id1811679572 ABOUT US:Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair - Tempe, Arizona - Arizona's Oldest Transmission ShopVisit us at: https://tricitytransmission.comStarted on KTAR News 92.3, now here on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts.The Bumper to Bumper podcast puts you in the know when it comes to your car. For more information about our hosts, Dave Riccio - davericcio.com
Is your Ford F-150 10-speed transmission shifting hard, jerking, slipping, or acting strange? Before you approve a $10,000 transmission replacement, watch this episode.In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, transmission experts Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle explain the most common problems with the Ford 10R80 transmission found in the Ford F-150, Ford Mustang, Ford Expedition, and other Ford vehicles. They break down why many 10-speed transmission issues are often misdiagnosed and how some trucks can be repaired without a complete transmission rebuild or replacement. If your Ford truck has transmission problems, this video could save you thousands and help you understand what is actually happening inside your transmission. Check Out Our Case Study:https://tricitytransmission.com/case-study/barraged-by-the-ford-10r80-2019-ford-raptor/ ABOUT US: Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair - Tempe, Arizona - Arizona's Oldest Transmission Shop Visit us at: https://tricitytransmission.com Dave Riccio is the Co-creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio, heard on KTAR News 92.3, every Saturday from 11:00 to noon. Dave has created the Bumper to Bumper Podcast with some of the same themes, just more directed toward a YouTube audience.https://davericcio.com/
Have you ever asked an auto repair shop, "What's your hourly rate?" According to Dave and Jon, that might be the wrong question. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, we break down how most automotive technicians are paid and why it can directly impact the quality of your repair. From flat-rate pay systems to technician incentives, overselling, warranty work, cutting corners, and customer satisfaction, we tap into an industry practice that most drivers never hear about. ABOUT US: Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair - Tempe, Arizona - Arizona's Oldest Transmission Shop Visit us at: https://tricitytransmission.com Dave Riccio is the Co-creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio, heard on KTAR News 92.3, every Saturday from 11:00 to noon. Dave has created the Bumper to Bumper Podcast with some of the same themes, just more directed toward a YouTube audience. https://davericcio.com/
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle break down why many manufacturers claim transmissions have lifetime fluid, why that claim can be misleading, and what transmission builders actually see in the real world. From BMW and ZF transmissions to Toyota marketing tactics and modern CVTs, we cover what every car owner should know before skipping transmission maintenance.Subscribe for real-world automotive advice, repair stories, and honest conversations from inside the shop. ABOUT US:Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair - Tempe, Arizona - Arizona's Oldest Transmission Shop Dave Riccio is the Co-creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio, heard on KTAR News 92.3, every Saturday from 11:00 to noon. Dave has created the Bumper to Bumper Podcast with some of the same themes, just more directed toward a YouTube audience.
Most radiator hoses DON’T need replacing at 80k miles. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave and Jon break down why modern coolant hoses last far longer than most people think and how unnecessary hose replacements can actually create new problems.We explain:Why factory spring clamps matterHow modern hose materials changed everythingWhen hoses actually need replacementWhy shops still recommend them so oftenThe hidden risks of replacing perfectly good OEM partsIf your mechanic recommended radiator hoses, watch this before spending the money.Subscribe for real-world automotive advice, repair stories, and honest conversations from inside the shop.
Does changing your air filter actually improve gas mileage? In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle break down one of the biggest automotive myths and explain why modern fuel-injected vehicles don’t work the way most people think. From fuel economy misconceptions to over-serviced air filters, they explain what actually affects MPG and what shops may be overselling you on.Subscribe for real-world automotive advice, repair stories, and honest conversations from inside the shop.Ask us a question! https://forms.gle/h2fJdqEJFcycJTCw5 Follow Bumper to Bumper:Website: https://bumpertobumperradiopodcast.com/ TikTok: / bumpertobumperpod Instagram: / bumpertobumperpodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/55E5tR1... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... ABOUT US:Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair - Tempe, Arizona - Arizona's Oldest Transmission ShopVisit us at: https://tricitytransmission.com Dave Riccio is the Co-creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio, heard on KTAR News 92.3, every Saturday from 11:00 to noon. Dave has created the Bumper to Bumper Podcast with some of the same themes, just more directed toward a YouTube audience. https://davericcio.com/
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave and John from Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair in Tempe, Arizona break down a costly and often overlooked issue: glycol contamination in automatic transmissions.What happens when your cooling system and transmission system mix? It can lead to serious damage and in many cases, a full transmission replacement We cover:What glycol contamination actually isHow coolant gets into your transmissionWhy it causes irreversible damageThe “strawberry milkshake” warning sign 🍓Real-world cases (including a $13,000 repair 😳)Common vehicles prone to this issue (like certain Nissan models)How to prevent it before it destroys your transmissionIf you drive a car with a transmission cooler built into the radiator, this is something you NEED to know.Don’t forget to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for weekly car advice, diagnostics, and insider tips.Bumper to Bumper Podcast Powered by Tri City Transmission & Auto Repair, Arizona’s Oldest Transmission Shop, Serving Tempe, Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Ahwatukee. Visit us at: https://tricitytransmission.com https://bumpertobumperradiopodcast.com/ Dave Riccio is the Co-creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio, heard on KTAR News 92.3, every Saturday from 11:00 to noon. Dave has created the Bumper to Bumper Podcast with some of the same themes, just more directed toward a YouTube audience. https://davericcio.com/ Tempe auto repair | Phoenix transmission shop | Mesa mechanic | Scottsdale auto repair#CarRepair#TransmissionRepair#AutoRepair#CarMaintenance#MechanicLife#CarProblems#CheckEngineLight#BumperToBumperPodcast#PhoenixAutoRepair#TempeMechanic#ArizonaAutoRepair
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave and Jon break down one of the biggest questions drivers have: Can you actually trust your technician?They dive into the difference between dishonesty vs. lack of competency, why some diagnoses go wrong, and how customers can protect themselves when dealing with auto repair shops. If you’ve ever felt unsure at a shop or worried about getting taken advantage of, this episode is for you.What you’ll learn:Why “not knowing” doesn’t always mean a technician is dishonestThe real reason misdiagnoses happen (and why it’s more common than you think)Why you should NEVER rely on guesses before proper diagnosticsHow specialization (like transmission shops) can make or break a repairThe truth about reviews and why they can be misleadingWhat actually matters when choosing a trustworthy auto shopA car is one of your biggest investments. Understanding how repairs work can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real-world car advice from experienced technicians.Bumper to Bumper Podcast Powered by Tri City Transmission & Auto Repair, Arizona’s Oldest Transmission Shop, Serving Tempe, Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Ahwatukee. Visit us at: https://tricitytransmission.com https://bumpertobumperradiopodcast.com/ Dave Riccio is the Co-creator of Bumper to Bumper Radio, heard on KTAR News 92.3, every Saturday from 11:00 to noon. Dave has created the Bumper to Bumper Podcast with some of the same themes, just more directed toward a YouTube audience. https://davericcio.com/ Tempe auto repair | Phoenix transmission shop | Mesa mechanic | Scottsdale auto repair#CarRepair#TransmissionRepair#AutoRepair#CarMaintenance#MechanicLife#CarProblems#CheckEngineLight#BumperToBumperPodcast#PhoenixAutoRepair#TempeMechanic#ArizonaAutoRepair
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle break down one of the most feared (and expensive) car problems: transmission issues. But there’s good news. Many drivers assume their transmission is failing when the problem might actually be something much simpler.Dave and Jon share real shop experiences explaining why 70% of the time people think they need a transmission, they actually don’t. From fluid issues to computer adaptations and even weak batteries, there are several common problems that can cause symptoms similar to major transmission failure.In this episode we cover:Why a transmission service won’t always fix a problemThe myth about servicing transmissions after 100,000 milesHow torque converter shudder can sometimes be fixed with fluidWhy bad batteries can cause harsh shifting in modern vehiclesWhat shift adaptations are and how they affect your transmissionWhen a cheap fix might save you thousands on repairsModern transmissions are incredibly complex with computers, sensors, and adaptive learning systems. Understanding how they work can help you avoid unnecessary repairs and make smarter decisions when diagnosing transmission problems.Like, comment, and subscribe for more automotive insights from the Bumper to Bumper Podcast.Powered by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair, Arizona’s Oldest Transmission Shop, Serving Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Ahwatukee.
Many cars today have plastic belly pans and undercovers protecting the underside of the vehicle. Most drivers don’t realize how important they actually are. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle break down why these plastic shields exist, what happens when they’re missing, and how something as small as a $45 piece of plastic can cause major problems if ignored. For many vehicles, a missing splash shield, chin spoiler, or air dam can disrupt airflow and lead to engine overheating.From airflow management and engine cooling to protecting critical components from road debris, snow, and water, these underbody panels play a bigger role than most people think. Dave and Jon also share a real shop story where a car received cooling fans, a radiator, and even a head gasket, only to discover the overheating issue was caused by a missing chin spoiler. This is a perfect example of how a small missing underbody panel can lead to a misdiagnosed overheating problem.In This Episode We Cover:Why modern cars use belly pans and underbody shieldsHow missing splash shields or air dams can cause overheating issuesWhy manufacturers spend money adding these partsThe real reason some oil leaks never reach your drivewayHow parking over curbs damages underbody panelsWhy some shops struggle to reinstall them during serviceDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast.Powered by Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair, Arizona’s Oldest Transmission Shop, Serving Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Ahwatukee.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle from Tri-City Transmission & Auto Repair break down the real signs of transmission problems and the common symptoms people misinterpret.Before you assume you need a brand-new transmission (and a massive bill), this episode explains what to watch and listen for.We Cover:What does it mean if your car won’t move when put in gearWhining, growling, rattling,“squawk” noises, and what they indicateThe difference between engine-speed noise vs. vehicle-speed noiseDelayed engagement when shifting into Drive or ReverseWhat “morning sickness” is in older transmissionsHow low transmission fluid can mimic serious problemsWhy “my transmission is slipping” means 10 different thingsThe difference between slipping, shuddering, misfires, and harsh shiftsWhy proper diagnosis (including a road test) mattersKeep in mind:70–80% of the time, people think they need a transmission and they don’t. It could be fluid level, a sensor, a misfire, or another repair entirely. Don’t guess. Diagnose.If you're experiencing unusual shifting, noises, delays, or vibrations, this episode will help you understand what might actually be happening before calling for a replacement.Don’t forget to LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for more real-world automotive advice from experienced technicians.Bumper to Bumper Radio - Powered by Tri City Transmission & Auto Repair, Arizona’s Oldest Transmission Shop, Serving Tempe, Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Ahwatukee. Visit us at: https://tricitytransmission.com/
In this episode, Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle break down one of the most common (and frustrating) problems drivers face: mysterious car noises. From wheel bearing hums and brake squeals to suspension pops, motor mount vibrations, and drivetrain howls. We explain what these sounds usually mean, how to describe them to your mechanic, and when a noise is just annoying versus when it’s a serious safety issue.If your car is squeaking, rattling, grinding, popping, or vibrating, this episode will help you understand what’s happening and what to do next.
A customer brought in a 2012 Mini Cooper with wind noise. In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle break down how professional technicians diagnose hard-to-find vehicle noises and what drivers should realistically expect from the repair process.They cover:Why noise diagnostics are some of the hardest problems in auto repairHow tools like smoke machines and thermal cameras are used to track down air leaksWhy previous windshield or body work can create hidden problemsThe difference between nuisance noises vs. serious mechanical issuesHow shops decide what’s worth diagnosing and what it costsSubscribe for more intriguing conversations about car repair, diagnostics, and what's reasonable at the shop. #autorepair #minicooper #windnoise #carnoise #automotivechannel #carrepair
Confused about new vs remanufactured vs rebuilt transmissions ? You’re not alone — and this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast clears it all up. In this episode, Dave Riccio and John Riggle break down the real differences between new, rebuilt, remanufactured, reconditioned, and recycled transmissions , and explain why these terms are often misleading or loosely defined in the automotive industry. If you’ve ever been told you need a “new transmission” and were quoted $8,000–$10,000, this conversation is a must-watch. We cover: What remanufactured transmissions really are (and who actually builds them) When a used or recycled transmission can be a smart, cost-effective option Why there is no true industry standard for rebuild terminology The risks of cheap online transmissions and aftermarket parts Real-world examples involving dealerships, salvage yards, alternators, AC components, and electronics How to protect yourself by choosing a reputable, integrity-driven repair shop Whether you’re deciding if it’s worth fixing your car, questioning a dealership quote, or just want to be a more informed consumer, this episode gives you the knowledge to make confident decisions before stepping into a repair shop.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, professional mechanics Dave Riccio and Jon Riggle break down the top 5 do-it-yourself car maintenance projects and explain which repairs actually make sense to tackle at home and which ones can get you into trouble.We cover common DIY auto repairs like oil changes, brake jobs, sensors, wiper blades, bulbs, and air & cabin filters, while sharing real-world shop experience, safety tips, and costly mistakes we see every day. If you’re trying to save money on car repairs or wondering “Can I fix this myself?” - this episode is for you.Topics Covered:Oil changes: Are they really worth doing yourself?Brake jobs: When DIY brakes become dangerous.Sensors & check engine lights explained.Wiper blades & light bulbs: Easy wins.Engine air filters & cabin filters done right.When DIY car repairs actually cost MORE.Why scan tools matter more than ever.Common mistakes mechanics see from DIY repairs.Whether you’re a weekend DIYer, car enthusiast, or just trying to avoid getting ripped off at the shop, this episode gives you honest, mechanic-approved advice you won’t get from most YouTube tutorials.
In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast, Dave Riccio and John Riggle break down one of the most misunderstood topics in auto repair: OEM vs aftermarket parts.From shocks and struts to belts, hoses, mounts, and more, we explain:Why replacing parts too early can actually hurt your carHow “quick struts” and one-size-fits-all parts ruin ride qualityThe real differences between OEM, OES, genuine, and aftermarket partsWhy cheaper parts often cost you more in the long runWhen aftermarket parts make sense and when they absolutely don’tIf you’ve ever wondered whether a repair shop is selling you something you don’t actually need, or why your car doesn’t feel the same after a repair, this episode is a must-watch.👍 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications to stay informed and avoid getting “snowed” at the repair shop.
Are CVT transmissions really as bad as the internet says? 🤔 In this episode of the Bumper to Bumper Podcast , Dave and John break down the truth behind CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) failures - especially in vehicles like Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, and Honda. From misunderstood driving feel to misdiagnoses that lead to unnecessary $8,000 transmission replacements , the guys explain how CVTs actually work, why they feel different than traditional automatics, and why many issues come down to fluid level, valve bodies, sensors, or even something as simple as a tail light bulb . You’ll learn: What a CVT transmission really is (and isn’t) Why CVTs often get misdiagnosed Which brands see the most CVT issues and why How dealerships sometimes skip proper diagnostics When a CVT can be repaired vs. replaced Why correct fluid, service intervals, and heat matter If you drive a car with a CVT or are shopping for one, this episode will help you avoid panic, save money, and ask better questions when you’re at the shop.
In this episode of Bumper to Bumper , Dave and John break down the most common—and most misunderstood—diagnostic trouble code in modern vehicles: EVAP system faults. From gross leaks and small leaks to why replacing the gas cap often doesn’t fix the problem, we explain how evaporative emissions systems actually work, why these codes get ignored, and what drivers (and DIYers) should know before clearing that light. If you’ve ever been told “it’s just an emissions thing,” this episode is for you.
