Bob & May-The Car Couple

Bob & May-The Car Couple Bob & May – The Car Couple operates with one goal — to do auto repair differently. Services performed independently by appointment only.

Husband-and-wife ASE-certified team providing precision diagnostics, performance tuning, and reliable auto service — thorough, friendly, and by appointment only in Panama City Beach and nearby areas. Bob Patterson, an ASE-Certified Technician and experienced LS-platform tuner, brings over 20 years of hands-on knowledge in precision diagnostics, performance systems, and custom calibration. May Patt

erson, an ASE-Certified Service Consultant, focuses on communication, organization, and customer care — ensuring every job runs smoothly from first message to final test drive. Together, they provide by-appointment automotive care — from general maintenance and diagnostics to specialized performance work across a wide range of applications. Whether it’s a late-model domestic engine, HEMI, LS, or another performance platform, Bob & May combine expertise with integrity to deliver reliable results. Their mission is simple: fix cars the right way, treat people fairly, and build something lasting for their family and community. Independent family mechanics • Not a licensed Motor Vehicle Repair Shop under the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services.

07/11/2026

Technology keeps changing, and so do the tools it takes to properly diagnose today’s vehicles.

Today we wrapped up a 2018 Land Rover Discovery that came in with an SRS (airbag) warning light. Newer vehicles like this use a communication system called DoIP (Diagnostics over Internet Protocol), which requires specialized diagnostic equipment and procedures. In this case, even our professional scan tool had to be connected directly to the vehicle’s communication interface to properly access the modules.

After performing a complete diagnosis, we traced the fault to the passenger-side seat-mounted airbag circuit. Fortunately, the issue turned out to be a poor electrical connection at the seat connector. After inspecting and reconnecting the terminals, the fault cleared and did not return—no parts were needed.

One thing to remember is that modern vehicles are far more complex than they used to be. Even something as simple as a dead battery or improperly communicating with a vehicle can create additional problems if the correct procedures aren’t followed. That’s why proper diagnostics have become more important than ever.

Whether you drive a Land Rover, Chevrolet, Ford, or another make, we’re equipped to diagnose and repair today’s vehicles the right way.

If your vehicle has a warning light on or needs maintenance or repairs, give us a call and get on the schedule!

07/10/2026

Not every repair is the same, but at the end of the day… they’re all just vehicles.

Today we’re wrapping up a 2016 Ford Explorer A/C repair. With an outside temperature over 108°F in the sun, we were able to get the vent temperature down to 42.8°F—that’s the kind of performance you want during a Florida summer!

We also have a Land Rover Discovery in the shop. After correcting a low refrigerant charge, we’re now diagnosing an SRS (airbag) warning light. Luxury vehicles often require specialized diagnostic procedures and equipment, but that’s all part of the job.

Whether it’s your Silverado, Explorer, Land Rover, or even a Lamborghini, every vehicle has a system, a diagnosis, and a proper repair. We enjoy figuring them out and getting our customers safely back on the road.

If your vehicle needs maintenance, diagnostics, or repairs, give us a call. We’d be happy to help!

📞 Bob’s Automotive LLC

07/09/2026

Another busy day in the shop! 🔧❄️

Today I wanted to show a little of what actually goes into an A/C repair on a 2016 Ford Explorer. Replacing the compressor is only part of the job. You also have to replace the receiver/drier and expansion valve, and Ford definitely made one part easier than the other!

The receiver/drier can actually be accessed through a factory opening in the radiator core support, so there’s no need to remove the entire front bumper. That’s a nice bit of engineering. The expansion valve, however, requires removing the intake plenum to gain access.

One of the most important steps that often gets overlooked is flushing the A/C system before installing the new components. Skipping that step can contaminate the new parts and lead to another expensive repair.

We also had a Silverado in the shop that looked like it only needed an A/C hose O-ring. After further testing, we found a tiny crack in the hose that only leaked under full system pressure. That’s exactly why proper diagnosis matters.

And yes… the Escalade came back after trying to seal the A/C drain with Flex Tape. Unfortunately, that $15 experiment didn’t solve the problem! Sometimes there’s just no shortcut to doing the repair correctly.

If your A/C isn’t keeping you cool, or if your vehicle needs maintenance or repairs, give us a call and get on the schedule. We’d be happy to help get you back on the road comfortably!

📞 Call today to schedule your appointment!

07/08/2026

We’ve been a little quiet on social media lately, but it’s because we’ve been staying busy in the shop! 🔧

We just wrapped up a full engine replacement on a Chevy Silverado, and next up is a Ford Explorer getting a complete A/C system overhaul with a new compressor and related components.

I wanted to jump on and give everyone a quick update, say hello, and let you know we do have a few openings later this week and into next week. If your vehicle needs maintenance, diagnostics, or repairs, now is a great time to get on the schedule before those spots fill up.

You’ll also catch a couple of special guest appearances from my kids in this video—they decided to stop by the office for a minute! 😄

Thanks for following along and supporting our family business. If you enjoy our repair videos, be sure to like, follow, and share. It really helps us reach more people!

📞 Need to schedule an appointment? Give us a call today!

07/03/2026

2014 Silverado engine swap update! 🔧

The replacement engine is officially back in the truck. On these Silverado 5.3L engine swaps, I like to remove the passenger-side exhaust manifold, A/C compressor, and engine mount to give myself the clearance needed without removing the entire front clip.

The engine goes in at an angle, rotated counterclockwise, then gets carefully maneuvered into position. Once it’s far enough into the engine bay, I can install the mount, continue lowering it, rotate it back straight, and slide it into its final position before setting it down and installing the motor mount bolts.

It’s a slow process, but taking your time helps prevent damage and makes the installation go much smoother.

Tomorrow’s goal is to get everything hooked back up, get the transmission bolted in place, and hopefully hear this truck run again!

As always, thank you for following along with the repair process. If your vehicle needs service, give us a call and let’s get you back on the road.

07/02/2026

Used engine installs are about more than just bolting another engine in and sending it down the road.

Before this replacement engine goes back into this 2014 Silverado, I’m taking care of the hard-to-reach seals that can cause major headaches later. The rear main seal, rear cover gasket, oil pan seals, oil pickup tube seals, and oil filter adapter seals are all being replaced while the engine is out.

Could I install it as-is? Sure. But if one of those seals starts leaking later, the labor required to get back to them is substantial. I’d rather take care of it now while everything is accessible and save the customer from future problems.

I also dropped the oil pan to inspect the condition of the replacement engine. There was a small amount of sludge in the bottom of the pan, but the pickup tube was clean and unrestricted. Everything was thoroughly cleaned, resealed, and inspected before reassembly.

The goal isn’t just getting the truck running—it’s giving this replacement engine the best chance at a long, reliable life.

Still shooting to have this Silverado back together by Friday if the truck cooperates!

If your vehicle needs repairs, diagnostics, maintenance, or an engine replacement, give us a call and let’s get you back on the road.

07/02/2026

🚗 Shop Update from Bob & May The Car Couple 🇺🇸

Welcome back to the shop!

The replacement engine for the Silverado has finally arrived, and we’re working hard to get this truck back on the road as quickly as possible. A big thank you to LKQ for helping us out and allowing us to keep the original engine so we can make sure we have everything needed to complete this repair correctly.

We also have the ‘97 Jeep back in the shop. We’re replacing a window switch and door lock actuator, but we’re still chasing an intermittent electrical issue that only shows up occasionally. The vehicle will sometimes start with gauges acting up and a rough-running condition. Previous ground wire repairs helped significantly, but we’re continuing our testing and currently suspect low battery voltage may be contributing to the problem.

Another vehicle in the shop is a 2005 Toyota 4Runner with a confirmed evaporator core refrigerant leak. Unfortunately, the customer has decided to postpone that repair for now, so we’ll be getting that vehicle back to them shortly.

As we head into the Fourth of July weekend, we want to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday. If you’re traveling, give yourself extra time, stay patient, and make smart decisions on the road. Your safety is more important than arriving a few minutes earlier.

If you need repairs, maintenance, diagnostics, or a second opinion before or after the holiday, give us a call. We’ll do everything we can to help keep you on the road.

🇺🇸 From our family to yours, Happy Fourth of July and stay safe!

📞 Bob & May The Car Couple
🔧 Honest Diagnostics • Quality Repairs • Real Solutions

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07/01/2026

🚨 Got a ticking noise from your truck? Don’t assume you need an engine.

This small roller lifter can cause thousands of dollars in damage when it fails, and it’s one of the most common issues we see on GM LS, GM LT, and Chrysler Hemi engines.

In this video, I explain:
✔️ What a lifter does
✔️ Why these failures happen
✔️ Common warning signs to watch for
✔️ Why “Hemi Tick” should never be ignored
✔️ When an engine can be repaired instead of replaced

Many owners are told they need a complete engine replacement when the actual problem may be isolated to the camshaft and lifters. The key is proper diagnosis and catching the issue before additional damage occurs.

If your truck has a ticking noise, misfire, check engine light, or you’ve been told you need an engine, give us a call. We can help determine the cause and discuss the best repair options to keep you on the road.

📞 Call today to schedule an appointment.

Bob & May | The Car Couple

06/30/2026

Today’s project was this 2014 Silverado engine replacement, and we’ve officially got the old engine out and on the ground.

There are several ways to remove one of these LS-based engines, but over the years I’ve found a method that allows me to get the engine out without removing the entire front clip. It takes a little planning, but it saves time and reduces the amount of disassembly required.

With the engine now removed, the next step is transferring components and preparing everything for the replacement engine when it arrives. Then it’ll be time to get this truck back together and back on the road for its owner.

Every repair has its own challenges, and that’s why proper diagnosis, planning, and experience matter before turning the first wrench.

If your vehicle needs an engine replacement, diagnosis, maintenance, or repairs, give us a call and let’s get you on the schedule. We’re here to help keep you moving.




















06/30/2026

Busy day at the shop today! We knocked out a water pump on a 2020 Toyota Corolla, diagnosed an A/C drain issue on a 2016 Cadillac Escalade, and continued planning for a Silverado engine swap that has to be completed by Thursday.

Sometimes repairs aren’t what they first appear to be. In the Escalade’s case, what looked like a clogged drain turned out to be damage inside the HVAC box from a previous repair attempt. We’ll get the owner a quote and help him make the best decision moving forward.

I also talked about AFM/DOD lifter failures on GM trucks. In many cases, a camshaft and lifter repair is a solid option and can save customers money compared to replacing the entire engine.

As always, if you need automotive advice, diagnostics, maintenance, or repairs, give us a call and get on the schedule. Even if you’re outside our area, I’m happy to point you in the right direction when I can.

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Panama City Beach, FL

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+18506877758

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