Director of Operations Ken Laham began his automotive career in 1986 as a tow truck driver but quickly progressed into other areas becoming an ASE Certified Master Technician. He moved to the area in 2006 from Brockton, Massachusetts but the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots are still his teams. Maybe the local Bucs and Rays fans can twist his arm our way! Ken spends his relaxation time completing home remodeling projects and traveling. He and his partner of over 20 years, Linda, have two grown children and two grandchildren.
With the help of Ice Cold Air, you can catch AC Problems Early!
Living in Tampa Bay, we all know the importance of having a functional air conditioning system in our vehicles. The hot and humid weather can be brutal, and it’s crucial to stay cool and comfortable while driving.
But what happens when your air conditioning system fails, and you’re left with no cool air on a scorching day? No one wants that! Don’t let this happen to you, catch AC problems early with your pros here at Ice Cold Air!
We’re more than just Ice Cold Air! Our technicians are also experts in providing routine maintenance services, such as oil changes, brake services, and more! Regular maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs down the road, so don’t put it off. Call Ice Cold Air today!
Sign #1: Reduced Cooling Performance
If you notice that your AC system is not cooling as well as it used to, it’s time to get it checked. A decrease in cooling performance can indicate a range of issues, from a simple fix like a low refrigerant level or a clogged filter to a more complex issue like a faulty compressor.
If your AC’s filter is clogged, it’s being overworked! The sooner you fix the simple problem, the less likely a costly repair will be needed!
Sign #2: Noisy or Smelly AC
If you hear strange noises, such as rattling or clicking, or notice a foul smell coming from the vents, you may have an issue with your car’s AC. Strange noises or odors can indicate a variety of issues, from a loose belt to mold growth in the system.
Sign #3: Visible Leaking
If you notice any puddles of fluid under your vehicle, you should take your car in for an inspection. Leaks can indicate a range of issues, from a cracked hose to a failing compressor.
Not all leaks are related to the AC system, so it’s essential to have a professional diagnose the problem. However, if the fluid is clear and odorless, it’s likely refrigerant leaking from the AC.
Beat the Heat, Call Ice Cold Air!
With hot weather just around the corner, it’s best to get your AC checked early. Ignoring problems with your air conditioning system can lead to a complete breakdown, leaving you without AC in the heat! Plus, preventative maintenance will save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs and extending the lifespan of your vehicle.
Whether you need an AC repair, a routine maintenance service, a complex repair, or a quick diagnostic check, we are here to help! Call Ice Cold Air Today!
Why Preventative Maintenance is Important for Used Cars
So, you’ve bought a used car, and got a great deal on it! There’s nothing wrong with buying a preowned car, but it’s important to take care of it. Depending on the year and mileage, your car is likely not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty anymore.
With no warranty left, and a previous amount of wear and tear, you’ll want to make sure you stay up to date on maintenance so your car doesn’t develop costly issues.
Here at Ice Cold Air, we’ve seen countless vehicles that have suffered from a lack of preventative care, leading to costly repairs and breakdowns. In this blog, we explain why routine maintenance is so necessary for used cars and how it can prolong the lifespan of your vehicle.
Reduce The Likelihood of Breakdowns
Preventive maintenance is crucial in reducing the likelihood of breakdowns in preowned cars. Regular check-ups and oil changes, for instance, help to identify any potential problems early on, before they escalate into more serious issues.
By taking care of your car, you are ensuring that your vehicle is running smoothly and efficiently, reducing the chance of a breakdown or costly repairs down the line.
Prolongs The Lifespan of Your Vehicle
Used cars don’t have the BEST reputation for lifespan, especially if you bought one with a lot of miles on the odometer. Regular check-ups, oil changes, and preventative maintenance can help keep your engine and other mechanical parts in good condition, reducing further wear and tear.
Improves Vehicle Performance
Regular oil changes and check-ups can help maintain the engine’s power, efficiency, and responsiveness, while tire rotations and alignments can help ensure better handling and control.
Routine maintenance can also improve your vehicle’s acceleration and braking, making for a safer drive!
Saves Money in The Long Run
While preventive maintenance may seem like an extra expense in the short term, it can actually save you a LOT of money in the long run. By catching potential problems early, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your vehicle.
Plus, regular care can also improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, reducing the amount of money you spend on gas.
Read More > Save Money on Gas
Schedule an Appointment with Ice Cold Air Today!
Preventive maintenance is a critical aspect of used car ownership. Regular check-ups, oil changes, and other tasks can help reduce the likelihood of breakdowns, prolong the lifespan of your vehicle, improve its performance, and save you money in the long run.
If you are looking for a reliable and experienced mechanic, look no further than Ice Cold Air! At all of our locations, our team of experienced technicians will work with you to ensure that your preowned car is running smoothly and efficiently, so you can enjoy a worry-free driving experience.
Everything You Need to Know About Oil Changes
If you’re like most drivers, you probably don’t think about getting your car’s oil changed until there’s a problem. But did you know that regular oil changes are one of the most important things you can do to keep your vehicle running in its best condition?
At Ice Cold Air South Dale Mabry, we want to help you keep your car running smoothly for years to come. In this blog, we’ll explain everything you need to know about oil changes: what happens during an oil change, the different types of motor oil available, how often you should get your vehicle’s oil changed, and more!
What Happens During an Oil Change?
An oil change is a routine maintenance procedure that helps keep your vehicle’s engine running smoothly and efficiently. During an oil change, old motor oil is removed from the engine and replaced with fresh, new oil.
This helps to lubricate the engine parts, prevent the buildup of dirt and debris, and cool the engine by removing heat. Every oil change is done using the same process. The only difference is the type of oil being used.
Types of Motor Oil
There are four different types of motor oil, and the type you use will heavily depend on your vehicle’s make and model. The most common types of motor oil are conventional, full synthetic, synthetic blends, and high-mileage oil.
Conventional or Standard Oil
The most basic type of motor oil and is typically the cheapest. It isn’t as refined as other oils, so it won’t be able to give your vehicle the best performance. However, it will still be able to keep your car running smoothly.
Another downside to conventional oil is it will need to be changed sooner than other motor oils as it gets filled with sludge and dirt a lot quicker.
Full-Synthetic Oils
Designed to last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures. It’s highly refined, ensuring the highest level of protection for your engine.
Of course, this means it will be more costly than conventional oil. However, it does last longer as it requires fewer oil changes. In the long run, this saves you money and a trip to the mechanic.
Synthetic Blend Oils
A combination of conventional and full-synthetic oils. It is more refined than standard oil, allowing more time between oil changes and giving your engine better protection.
Since it is mixed with standard oil, it does need to be changed sooner than full-synthetic oil. But overall, it is more affordable in comparison.
High-Mileage Oil
Very similar to synthetic blend oil, but it was designed for vehicles that have a mileage of more than 75,000. It contains additives that are meant to provide extra protection for older engines and prevent oil evaporation, which tends to occur in older vehicles.
So, How Often Should Your Vehicle’s Oil Be Changed?
Most carmakers recommend getting your vehicle’s oil changed every 5000 to 7000 miles, but it’s always best to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Getting your car’s oil changed regularly is one of the best ways to keep it running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Different driving habits can also affect how often you need an oil change. If you find yourself doing a lot of stop-and-go driving or driving in dusty or dirty conditions often, you may need to change your oil more frequently. Whereas, if you do mostly highway driving, you may be able to go a bit longer between changes.
Keep Your Car in Tip-Top Shape with Top-Quality Oil Changes
At Ice Cold Air in South Tampa, our experienced technicians will get the job done quickly and keep your car running smoothly! Don’t put that oil change off any longer – swing by the shop today at 410 S Dale Mabry HWY. Tampa, FL.
Need to visit us at a later date? Give us a call and schedule your next oil change!
5 Reasons Your Check Engine Light May Be On
Your car’s check engine light is on… now what? Don’t panic! Most likely, your engine isn’t completely failing, it could even be something as simple as a loose gas cap. Unfortunately, the check engine light itself doesn’t explain the issue, you’ll need to come by a trusted mechanic to get a diagnostic, like us here at Ice Cold Air on 410 S Dale Mabry!
We know you’re curious though, so we’re here to tell you the 5 most common reasons your check engine light might be on!
A Loose or Missing Gas Cap
This is a surprisingly common reason for your check engine light to come on. If your gas cap is loose or missing, it can throw off the pressure in your fuel system and trigger the check engine light.
Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in your exhaust and sends that information to the computer. If the oxygen sensor is faulty, it can cause the engine to run “lean” or “rich”.
A rich engine has too much fuel and not enough air,
while a lean engine has too much air and not enough fuel.
The proper balance is essential for the engine to work properly.
Catalytic Converter Issues
The catalytic converter is responsible for converting harmful emissions into less harmful emissions. If it fails, it can cause an increase in emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Spark plug or Ignition Coil Failure
The spark plugs ignite the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders. If they are fouled or damaged, it can cause misfires and trigger the check engine light to turn on.
The ignition coils provide the spark plugs with the high voltage needed to ignite the air/fuel mixture. If they fail, it can also cause misfires and trigger the check engine light.
Mass Airflow Sensor Failure
The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of airflow entering the engine. This is extremely important to the operation of the engine, and if it fails, it can cause the engine to run lean or rich and trigger the check engine light.
These are just a few of the reasons your check engine light may be on, so it’s always best to bring your car into a trusted mechanic for a diagnostic.
Here at Ice Cold Air, we’re always happy to help, so give us a call today and let us take a look! We’ll have you back on the road in no time!
What is a Car Diagnostic Test?
What is a Car Diagnostic Test?
So let’s say you take your car in for a tune-up regularly, always get your oil changed, and make minor repairs before they become worse. If that’s you, congrats on being a perfectly proactive car owner! Even if you’re on the other side of the car maintenance spectrum (it’s okay, you’re on the right track now), you may have wondered what exactly our car diagnostic test shows us, or what it is even looking for in the first place.
Well, say goodbye to sleepless nights wondering these important questions, as our pros here at Ice Cold Air are going to break the diagnostic test down for you. Ready for your own diagnostic test? Give Ice Cold Air a call today, or swing by the shop at 410 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa!
What Even is a Diagnostic Test?
Simply put, a diagnostic test inspects all the vehicle’s computer systems and ensures nothing is causing issues. Many people seem to underestimate how computerized a modern car is compared to older vehicles.
The test scans through all the systems to look for any reported issue for any vital part of the vehicle. This includes the:
Engine
Transmission
Throttle
Oil Tank
Exhaust System
Electronics
+ Other signs of wear & tear
When Should I Run a Diagnostic Test?
A diagnostic test is not required maintenance but is a great tool to spot any problems before they get worse (and more visible).
The most common reason a diagnostic test is given is when the check engine light comes on.
With the diagnostic test, we can review the codes that are causing your check engine light to be on, properly diagnosing the underlying issues of the car.
Come to Ice Cold Air For a Quick Check-Up & Diagnostic!
Diagnostic tests help you detect small issues that may have gone unnoticed, even to the best technician! By catching errors early, you can save a lot of money that would have been spent on surprising vehicle repairs.
Have a check engine light on your dashboard? Ice Cold Air South Tampa on Dale Mabry is here to help! We’re more than just ice-cold air; you can trust us with anything your car needs. Call us today at (813) 879-0600 to book an appointment, or swing by the shop over at 410 S Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa.
Our 16th Year! Free Oil Change for Toys to Support the Marine’s Toys for Tots
Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair is giving away a free oil-change including a tire rotation to any customer who brings in a new, unwrapped toy for the Marines’ “Toys for Tots” program from now until December 11th. This is the Pinellas-based auto repair franchise’s 16th year giving away oil changes to those who donate toys. Customers have the option of trading the new toy for an oil change and tire rotation on the spot or exchanging the toy for a voucher for a free future oil change and tire rotation or $20 off any service. There are 17 Ice Cold Air locations throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. “We are very proud to join the Marines and their exceptional program for our 16th year. It is an honor to help facilitate our customer’s support and making positive impacts in the lives of children in our community,” said Tina M. Denham, President of Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair. “Our customers and community have been very good to us for 50 years, and acting as a drop off location for Toys for Tots is an excellent way for us to give back to the community and our customers for their support.” Over the years, it is estimated that Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair customers have donated 28,000 toys. This year Denham says they aspire to donate over 2000 more, “our loyal customers have a proven history, and I know they are eager to support the program again this year. We are asking for even more community members to take advantage of this offer and help us meet our goal.” The toys should be of similar value, in the original packaging and unwrapped. Donations will be accepted at almost all of the 17 Ice Cold Air locations. Those interested in taking advantage of the promotion should call or stop by their local Ice Cold Air location to ensure participation. Visit www.icecoldair.com for a list of locations. # # #
The Perks of Becoming an Automotive Technician
Becoming an automotive technician is a rewarding path for anyone looking in the trades or to change careers. Getting to work with your hands all day and knowing that you finished your day with a job well done is a huge positive on its own.
If you’re looking to start a new, exciting career as an automotive technician, we’d like to share some of the perks of the job!
Stability
Variety
Advancement Opportunities (plus, great pay and a signing bonus!)
Satisfaction
These are just a few of the perks that come with becoming an automotive tech! We are constantly looking for new talent and unique individuals to join our team. If a new career is something you’re interested in, let’s look at what’s in it for you in your career as an automotive tech:
#1. Stability
There will always be a need for good automotive mechanics. You can choose to live anywhere and there will always be a way to find steady employment. You never have to wonder where your next paycheck is coming from, you will always have security for you and your family.
#2. Variety
Every day is a little bit different in the life of an automotive technician. Different cars, different parts, and always a new thing to learn! Trust us, there is a steady stream of change that keeps you active and prevents boredom in the day-to-day work.
#3. Advancement Opportunities
Becoming an automotive technician also opens you up to a world of opportunities. You can advance your career and eventually become a master in the field. This guarantees higher pay (Master Technicians in the US make an average of 123,527 per year) and more opportunities to do the type of work that you want to do.
In fact, the Ice Cold Air® Discount Auto Repair franchise makes a bit of a habit of turning former shop employees into successful entrepreneurs and business owners. Many of our franchise owners include both former managers and former technicians. We pride ourselves in our ability to offer a chance for those who’ve always dreamed of owning their own shop.
#4. Satisfaction
After a long day of work, you have the satisfaction of knowing you’re doing good work for your local community. You are keeping people safe in their cars, you are making their transportation more reliable, and you are spending every day doing the best work that you possibly can.
Plus, we care about giving back wherever we can to others in Tampa Bay. As a team, we conduct back-to-school and food drives, Toys for Tots for 15 years now, and so much more.
Join Our Team as an Automotive Technician
We have the BEST job! Every day is as different as the cars we work on. Become an automotive technician, diagnose and solve problems, and make repairs to keep cars on the road longer and keep our customers safe.
If you’re a seasoned automotive mechanic or just getting started, consider joining our team. We would love to hear from you; tell us why you’d be a good fit for our car care team. We are always interested in meeting and hiring new talent in the Tampa area. Send in your resume here!
Our 15th Year! Free Oil Change for Toys to Support the Marine’s Toys for Tots
Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair is giving away a free oil-change including a tire rotation to any customer who brings in a new, unwrapped toy for the Marines’ “Toys for Tots” program from now until December 12th. This is the Pinellas-based auto repair franchise’s 15th year giving away oil changes to those who donate toys. Customers have the option of trading the new toy for an oil change and tire rotation on the spot or exchanging the toy for a voucher for a free future oil change and tire rotation or $20 off any service. There are 17 Ice Cold Air locations throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. “We are very proud to join the Marines and their exceptional program for our 15th year. It is an honor to help facilitate our customer’s support and making positive impacts in the lives of children in our community,” said Tina M. Denham, President of Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair. “Our customers and community have been very good to us for 50 years, and acting as a drop off location for Toys for Tots is an excellent way for us to give back to the community and our customers for their support.” Over the years, it is estimated that Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair customers have donated 25,000 toys. This year Denham says they aspire to donate over 2000 more, “our loyal customers have a proven history, and I know they are eager to support the program again this year. We are asking for even more community members to take advantage of this offer and help us meet our goal.” The toys should be of similar value, in the original packaging and unwrapped. Donations will be accepted at almost all of the 17 Ice Cold Air locations. Those interested in taking advantage of the promotion should call or stop by their local Ice Cold Air location to ensure participation. Visit www.icecoldair.com for a list of locations. # # #
Manager Buys His Shop’s Franchise and Goes into Business for Himself, not by Himself
Seven months after joining the Ice Cold Air® family as a manager, Nick Zammit is now the owner of the Port Richey location (11930 US Hwy 19N @ SR 52).
Nick has always loved cars, especially fast cars and racing, so it’s no surprise he ended up in the auto industry. He has made cars his living for 13 years now. He originally graduated from the Police Academy and was a sworn officer for six months but didn’t care for the job. “I wanted to help people but it wasn’t for me. Now I help people everyday and they’re always happy their car is fixed. Not everyone was happy when I was a cop trying to help them.”
Originally born in Buffalo, Nick moved to the Clearwater area in 1994 and graduated from Dunedin High School.
He likes spending his free time with his family and his fur babies, Pedro (a Dachshund) and Reese (Boston Terrier-Chihuahua) and his daughter who he says, “is the light of my life.”
Stuff the Bus
FREE OIL CHANGE & COURTESY CHECK!
(Oil Change up to 5 qts, standard weight oil-synthetic, high mileage, or special requests extra)
Don’t need an Oil Change now? NO PROBLEM!
How about a $20 Gift Certificate toward any Repair or Maintenance?
Donate $15 Worth of School Supplies!
WE ARE COLLECTING DONATIONS FOR STUFF THE BUS!
All great offers come with a catch! Here’s the deal: All you have to do is purchase new school supplies (worth $15 or more please), and donate them to our Stuff the Bus School Supplies Drive and we will give you a FREE OIL CHANGE or $20 Off Your Next Repair or Service. It’s that Simple!
Proceeds Benefit the
HURRY! Limited Time Offer on a FREE OIL CHANGE with Donations!!!
Donations accepted June 24th thru July 30th
Call for your appointment, as our schedule is sure to fill up.
11930 US 19, Port Richey
727-863-6105
**Offer Valid at Port Richey Location Only and oil change only by appointment
Seven months after joining the Ice Cold Air® family as a manager, Nick Zammit is now the owner of the Port Richey location (11930 US Hwy 19N @ SR 52).
