Comparing Winter Tires and All-Season Tires
Choosing the right tires for your vehicle makes all the difference when it comes to driving in Wisconsin’s varied seasonal conditions. There’s a difference in performance, suitability, and overall effectiveness of winter tires versus all-season tires.
Understanding Tire Composition and Traction
Tires are not created equal; the differences go beyond the tread pattern. The rubber compound in winter tires is designed to remain flexible in cold temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice. While versatile, all-season tires don’t offer the exact grip in winter due to a more complex compound optimized for a broader range of temperatures, but not for extreme cold.
Handling and Durability
When the mercury drops, winter tires provide improved handling. Their tread design allows for better snow and slush ejection, enhancing control. All-season tires, conversely, are built for longevity and year-round performance in mild conditions but fall short on icy roads. For those commuting into Madison, Middleton, and Fitchburg for work, this distinction is crucial.
Making the Right Choice for Your Vehicle
If you regularly face harsh winter conditions, as we do here, investing in winter tires is wise. For most of us in Wisconsin, winter is pretty brutal, so when you search for used cars near you, be sure to ask your dealership about their available winter tires. Winter tires are always a good choice to consider.
Remember, no matter which tires you choose, ensuring they are in good condition is also essential. When you come to us to purchase preowned cars after your “used car dealership near me” searches, you can consult us about the best tire options for your new-to-you vehicle.
Preparing for Winter: Tire Selection Tips
- Check Tread Depth: Ensure your tires have adequate tread for the upcoming season, whatever it is.
- Consider Local Climate: Madison, WI residents should always at least consider getting winter tires.
- Consult Experts: Looking for used cars in Madison, WI? Your dealership can provide valuable advice on tire selection.
Your Next Steps
For those in Madison, Middleton, or Fitchburg looking to upgrade their tires or find quality preowned cars, Zimbrick Automotive is your trusted destination. Visit our website to explore our inventory and services, and when you’re ready, schedule a visit to discuss your tire needs with our experts.
Whether you need winter tires for icy commutes or all-season tires for general use, our team at Zimbrick Automotive is here to help. Browse our selection of used cars and find the perfect match for your driving needs. Call us or visit our website to get started today: we have parts, including tires, for every make and model of car.
Winter Car Care Tips
Madison car dealers and drivers alike know that winter in Wisconsin changes the driving conditions and can affect the condition of your car. At Zimbrick Automotive, the service technicians at our Madison car dealership can help winterize your vehicle to prepare it for the cold weather and snow and ensure that it’s ready to safely and reliably get you everywhere you need to go.
Winter Car Care Tips
One of the easiest ways to prepare your car for the winter is to keep up with routine maintenance. At your regular service appointments, the technicians can perform all the necessary care and take extra steps to prepare your vehicle for the winter. Make sure your tires are ready to handle the snow, ice, and slippery conditions and your brakes are in the best condition so you can come to a complete stop on those slippery roads.
Doing so is vital to feeling more confident regardless of the forecast. These service appointments are an investment in your vehicle’s condition and safety. Brake and tire service, combined with other routine maintenance aspects like battery service, will ensure your car is ready for the winter weather.
Winterizing Your Vehicle at Your Local Dealership
Aside from routine maintenance, there are other ways the service technicians can winterize your vehicle, so there’s no guesswork, and you don’t need to figure out the DIY process.
Changing your wiper blades is essential in winterizing your vehicle because you’ll need quality wipers to keep your windshield free of snow and precipitation throughout the winter. Additionally, all your fluids must be topped off, from your antifreeze to your wiper fluid and everything in between, to support your engine and promote visibility.
Practicing Safe Driving
Other ways to stay safe while driving during the winter include keeping your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel lines from freezing and completely clearing snow from your windows, lights, and other areas of your car necessary for complete visibility. On icy roads, reduce your speed and always slow to a stop well before you need to to avoid sliding and colliding with the vehicle in front of you.
Investing in a Safe and Reliable Vehicle
If you don’t have a safe or reliable vehicle you can count on during the winter weather, it’s time you invest in one that you can. You don’t need to search the car lots in Madison because we have a variety of sedans, SUVs, and trucks with safety features that can help you feel more confident on the road year-round. We can help you find your next new vehicle that will make driving during every season in Wisconsin a safer and more enjoyable experience.
The Wisconsin Winters can be brutal, but when you winterize your vehicle and take steps to practice safe driving, you can get through the winter months safely and with confidence. If your car needs to be prepped for winter weather, or you need a more reliable option, we can help at our car dealership. Contact us today at Zimbrick Automotive to learn more about our inventory and schedule your next service appointment.
Our Favorite Cars of the Year
The favorite cars of the year are those new and pre-owned vehicles that have proved to be the most popular and best-selling. If you’re shopping for new or used cars, you can find these driver-favorite options at your local car dealership in Madison. Madison car dealers will have these popular models in stock, so you don’t have to travel to all the used car lots seeking the perfect option.
The Most Popular Used Vehicles of the Year
At Zimbrick Automotive, we see a lot of inventory, but there are some vehicles that stand out for their reliability, good looks, versatility, and affordable price tag. When shopping for a new vehicle, you can custom order and accessorize or look for a quality pre-owned option. You can go right with all of these popular models.
The Chevy Silverado
Trucks have, and continue to be, the highest-selling vehicles every year at Madison car dealers, and the Chevy Silverado is among the top-selling trucks for a good reason. This aggressive, attractive truck has a powerful 2.7 L turbo high-output engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Drivers will have seven exterior and two interior color choices and other customization options to make the vehicle the perfect extension of their lifestyle. It comes in a regular cab with a standard or extended bed, a double cab, and a crew cab with a short or standard bed option.
The Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue is a popular midsize crossover SUV you may have encountered on your vehicle search for used car lots near me. This SUV can seat up to five passengers and features a 201 hp VC-Turbo® engine with 225 pound-feet of torque. It has excellent fuel economy and will get up to 30 miles per gallon in the city and 37 on the highway.
It has an impressive infotainment system and safety features to improve your confidence on the road. Drivers will have the option of four different packages to customize their vehicle and can style it with various trim options, exterior lighting, and accessories.
The Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a popular sedan that has remained at the top of the favorite lists for years for its reliability and affordability. Not only is it the best-selling non-SUV in the country, but drivers continue to choose this sedan. Choose a used model at your local car dealership in Madison, and you’ll make a good choice and get an affordable, reliable, and attractive vehicle.
The Camry is a four-door sedan with a four-cylinder 2.5 L engine that can seat five passengers. Even the used model can come with all the extra options to make your driving experience more convenient, including automatic temperature control, the driver assist package, heated front seats, perforated leather trim, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a large and powerful vehicle, something smaller, or a midsize option, we have all these used cars and more for you to explore and test drive at our dealership. Visit Zimbrick Automotive today to explore our inventory in person and schedule a test drive.
The Environmental Impact of Buying a Used Car
In our quest for sustainability, the choices we make in our daily lives play a pivotal role, especially when it comes to transportation. Opting for used cars in Middleton isn’t just a financially savvy decision. It’s an environmentally conscious one, too.
Why Choosing a Used Car Matters for the Environment
When you buy pre-owned cars, you’re not just saving money; you’re actively participating in a form of recycling. This choice significantly reduces the demand for new car production, which, in turn, conserves valuable resources and minimizes waste.
Resource Conservation
Manufacturing a new car requires a substantial amount of materials and energy. By looking for used cars for sale near you, you’re effectively cutting down on the consumption of these resources.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
The automotive industry is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions, not just from the vehicles on the road but also from the factories where they are born. Choosing used cars in Madison, WI, erases the need for the considerable emissions generated from the manufacturing of a new vehicle, thereby reducing your carbon footprint.
Local Environmental Benefits for Madison and Middleton Residents
In communities like Madison and Middleton, purchasing a used car goes hand-in-hand with local environmental initiatives to lower emissions and foster a greener lifestyle. It is a decision that reflects the environmental ethos of the region and contributes to our collective effort for cleaner air and less environmental degradation.
Emissions and Efficiency: The Pre-Owned Advantage
Modern vehicles are designed to last, and today’s used cars are more efficient and longer-lasting than ever before. This means you can enjoy the benefits of a car that’s already passed its most significant depreciation and emission-producing phase.
Opting for a used car is a stand for sustainability. It’s a conscious choice that favors ecological balance over the fleeting allure of new car ownership. Every pre-owned car purchase is a silent vote for a greener planet.
Join the Movement: Embrace Eco-Friendly Driving
Take a look at our extensive selection of used cars in Middleton and used cars for sale near Madison, WI, to find the perfect blend of reliability, affordability, and environmental responsibility.
By choosing a pre-owned vehicle, you are not just taking home a car; you are taking a stand for the environment. Explore our diverse inventory of pre-owned cars at Zimbrick Automotive and drive away with a vehicle that suits your lifestyle and supports your values. Talk to our finance department about getting a loan that works for you, and enjoy a transparent buying process that prioritizes your needs.
You’ve made your list and you’re checking it twice…but you’re getting ready for something better than Christmas. That’s right—if you’re here, you’re likely prepping for deer hunting season in Wisconsin (and you’re probably hoping to haul away a huge load.)
Here’s how you can score big this hunting season and enjoy fresh venison all year-round.
1. Clean out your outpost
You very well might have cleaned it out last season—but the forest and local bug populations can make themselves at home in record time. Be sure to take a trip out there to clean up your outpost and set pest traps to keep bites at bay. You’ll thank us later.
2. Invest in your equipment
The best outposts seem to be miles from home or the general population. That’s quite a way. Be sure to give your vehicle and equipment a look-over to ensure it’s ready for the snowy hunting season. If it’s not, shop Zimbrick Automotive for the best used cars in Madison and used trucks for sale, and walk away with your best deal yet.
3. Clean your gear (and lay it out)
Prepare your gear and outfit, cleaning it out from the staleness of the closet shelf. However, be sure to dry it out on your fence post or clothesline far away from human “scents.” These smells can hang onto your fabrics and can deter deer from coming by.
4. Get a physical
It can be easy to push yourself too hard in the cold with hopes of bagging a buck. Before you hit the trail, be sure to get a physical exam to check that your blood pressure, mental and general health are in good working order.
5. Make Zimbrick Your Home For Any Upgrades
We’ll save you the trouble of Googling used cars dealers near me and direct you to the best used cars in Madison, WI—located conveniently at your local Zimbrick Automotive. We’re committed to getting you the most bang for your buck, helping you drive off the lot with personalized payment plans and a ride you love. For more information and to get started today, please connect with us online or in-store. It’s our pleasure to serve you.
As football season kicks off, fans all over Wisconsin are gearing up to show their support, not only in the stands but in the parking lots. Tailgating is an iconic pre-game ritual. The right vehicle can take your tailgating game to the next level. Whether you’re searching through used cars for sale near you or browsing the selections of used car dealers, you’ll want to know the best models for your game-day festivities.
Why The Vehicle Matters
Beyond transportation, the vehicle is a centerpiece for your gathering. It provides shade, seating, and sometimes even entertainment with built-in sound systems. And as much as it’s about function, it’s also about showing up in style.
Hyundai Elantra: Compact and Convenient
For those who prefer a sedan, the Hyundai Elantra stands out. This car, which is usually easy to find among used cars in Madison, offers a particularly spacious trunk for a compact car. With its split-fold rear seatback, there’s plenty of room for coolers and chairs. Plus, its fuel efficiency means you can afford to drive to those away games more easily.
Chevrolet Equinox: A Versatile SUV
When you’re scanning through the list of used cars for sale near me, don’t overlook the Chevrolet Equinox. This SUV offers a ton of space without being too bulky. It features a hands-free liftgate, which is convenient for when your hands are full of grilling supplies. The Equinox is a top contender for the ultimate tailgating vehicle for the family or a party of friends too big for a sedan.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500: The Truck for True Tailgaters
For those who think big when it comes to tailgating, trucks are at the top of the list. Among used trucks for sale, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 reigns supreme. Its vast bed can hold large grills, tents, and tables with ease. The MultiFlex tailgate makes unloading your gear a hassle-free experience, too. The 120-volt, bed mounted power outlet gives you 400 watts of power for whatever you need to bring along to make the event special.
Zimbrick Automotive: Your Go-To Dealership
If you’re on the hunt for the best vehicles for tailgating, visit us at Zimbrick Automotive: your used car dealership in Madison. We have a wide variety of models to suit every tailgater’s needs. Our sales team, with their commitment to our legendary Loving Care Service Guarantee, can help you find the perfect match for your tailgating ambitions as well as your budget.
Whether you’re rooting for the Packers, the Badgers, or anyone else, enjoy the community, camaraderie, and the joy of gathering with fellow fans with the right tailgating vehicle from Zimbrick Automotive. Don’t let this football season pass without making it memorable.
Buying a used car is smart, given the immediate depreciation new cars face as soon as they roll off the lot. With the countless options in used cars for sale, though, you as a prospective buyer need to be fully informed about a vehicle’s past before you buy. Vehicle history reports, such as the CARFAX® Vehicle History Report, are the key to being confident that used cars and used trucks for sale are all they’re cracked up to be.
What a Vehicle History Report Will Tell You
Past Accidents and Damages
When considering used cars in Madison, the first thing you want to know is if the car has been in any accidents. A vehicle’s structural integrity can be compromised after a major accident, and there are ways that unscrupulous mechanics can sometimes cover this up.
Through a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report, you can find details about past accidents, the nature of the damage, and subsequent repairs.
Ownership History
The number of previous owners, and how long each owner had a car, can give some insight into the vehicle’s condition. Cars that have had a single owner are sometimes better cared for than those that have changed hands multiple times, though that’s not a hard and fast rule. Combine this info with the service history to get a complete view.
Used Cars and Trucks for Sale: Madison’s Best Selection
With various options popping up for ‘used car dealers near me’ searches and lots of options available, it’s vital to have a strategy before you go to your used car dealership in Madison.
Focus on Reputable Dealers
Always prioritize working with established, reputable dealers. A reputable car dealership in Madison will not only offer a selection of quality vehicles but also be transparent about vehicle histories.
Ask for the Report
Before finalizing any deal, always ask for the CARFAX® Vehicle History Report. This trusted, third-party evaluation will let you know what a car has really been through.
Are you on the hunt for used cars for sale near me or a trusted car dealership in Madison? Look no further. At Zimbrick Automotive, we offer a comprehensive CARFAX® Vehicle History Report with every used purchase. Explore our selection today and drive home with confidence.
Drive Safe For Back To School
We’ve all seen the signs that tell us to stay safe on the road or to “slow for the school zone” — but what does that really mean?
While it might seem inconvenient on those extra-busy mornings, slowing down and taking special care can save lives — including your own.
Read on to learn more from your experts at Zimbrick Automotive — the best car dealership in Madison.
Back To School Driving Tips You Won’t Want To Miss
Here are our top tips for staying safe on the road this back to school season.
Follow posted limits.
School zones are slower than your average road for a reason. Small children, distracted parents and siblings can run into the road at inopportune or unsafe moments. By controlling your speed, you’re committing to creating a safer tomorrow — and you’ll be saving money you’d otherwise spend on a replacement new or used cars for sale if you were to get in an accident.
You’ll also be saving money on potential fines and fees. Depending on state and local codes, police can fine heavily for violations related to speed in a school zone.
Check twice. Then, check again.
We know that it sounds basic — but always triple check your mirrors in a school zone. Many children have been injured walking or biking in a car’s blind spot, during a merge or trying to complete viral challenges on the road. Don’t let a simple check stand between a safe experience for both you and the students!
Stay consistent
It doesn’t matter if school’s out or if it’s after hours. Clubs and sports can go into the afternoon — and many children may stay there into the evening (or might go quite late at night with their peers). It’s always best to follow posted signs, no matter what time of day it is (or if you visually see students there).
Find Used Cars Near Me At Zimbrick Automotive
It’s never been easier to find your perfect ride. Connect with the team today to discover our wide catalog of new and used cars for sale, and inquire about personalized payment plans to make your dreams a reality. We’re here to help.
5 of the Best Vehicles for College Students
Choosing the right car for a college student requires balancing different factors, such as budget, reliability, safety, and fuel efficiency. Here’s some of our most popular and reliable options we frequently have on-lot.
Hyundai Elantra: A Cost-Efficient Option
The Hyundai Elantra is a favorite among budget-conscious students. Its impressive fuel efficiency and affordable maintenance costs make it an excellent choice. With its modern design and high safety ratings, Elantra models deliver a comfortable ride with sleek styling, along with high safety and reliability. Even those looking exclusively for used cars for sale have the Elantra in mind as a top option.
Hyundai Sonata: Safety and Comfort in One Package
The Hyundai Sonata offers a blend of comfort and safety, perfect for long commutes back home or weekend road trips. It has many of the same benefits as the Elantra, but in a slightly larger package. If you still want to enjoy safety and great fuel efficiency while having better cargo space and performance, it’s worthwhile to check out a Sonata when you’re browsing through our new and used cars in Middleton.
Acura TLX: Luxury and Performance
For students who desire a bit more luxury without breaking the bank, the Acura TLX is a compelling choice. Boasting a comfortable cabin and superior performance, it’s an excellent pick for students wanting a more upscaled drive through their college town. The Acura TLX provides the best of both worlds, being both luxurious and affordable when you get one used.
Honda Civic: The Reliable Choice
Be looking for the Honda Civic at your car dealership in Madison. This one has always been a go-to choice for students due to its rock-solid dependability. It’s hard to beat in terms of fuel efficiency, and its excellent safety ratings mean it is always a smart pick.
Volkswagen Jetta: German Engineering at Its Best
If you appreciate refined handling and European styling, the Volkswagen Jetta offers an impressive package. Known for its steady ride and fuel efficiency, the Jetta is an excellent choice for students looking for a stylish, efficient ride.
When it comes to trusting new and used car dealers in the area, rely on Zimbrick Automotive to offer the best selection, service, and financing. Whether you’re after the perfect ride for a college student, used trucks for sale, or the best vehicle maintenance and service option, contact us today. We look forward to helping you.
Should I Finance My Used Car Purchase?
You want to get a great vehicle you love to drive, but you also want to make sure the financing process is the best you can have. Since most of us don’t have the financial resources to buy a vehicle on the spot, knowing how to get the best options for financing before visiting your local car dealership in Madison is a valuable asset.
Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Financing Agreement
Cost of the Vehicle
The first factor usually influencing whether a financing agreement is feasible enough for you is the cost of the car. The overall price will impact the total amount you pay, along with your monthly payments. Shopping for used cars in Madison is a great way to get a quality vehicle at a lower price than what you’d see if you were buying new.
Your Credit
Having a good credit score will show lenders you are trustworthy and responsible with debt payments, giving you access to more favorable rates and terms for your agreement. Building your credit by making payments on your utilities, credit cards, and other regular expenses can open up more favorable automotive financing options when you start looking for used cars for sale.
Cashflow
Consider the amount of money in your monthly budget you can put towards making payments on your vehicle. You can adjust the length of the loan to reduce these payments, but that will increase the amount of interest you pay in the long run. The financing experts used car dealers employ can help you fine-tune the terms of your agreement to suit your unique financial situation.
Financial Goals
Another consideration to factor in when deciding whether to finance is your long-term financial plan. Make sure the financing agreement fits in with the other expenses and obligations in your budget. You should also plan for how the financing agreement will impact your credit, as well as planning for the future when you may wish to sell or trade-in the vehicle.
If you’re considering financing your next vehicle purchase, we’re standing by to assist you. The used cars and used trucks for sale you’ll find at our lot are the best you can get in the area, and our financing experts will help get you behind the wheel faster for a great price. Come to Zimbrick Automotive today and we’ll help you out.
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