The Best Cars for New Drivers & Teens
Starting out as a driver is a lot easier when you have a vehicle that is good for people not yet comfortable behind the wheel. Are you looking at used cars for sale trying to find the perfect fit for someone who is just beginning as a driver? Look for these models that are ideal for new drivers when you’re searching for used cars in Madison, WI.
2018 Honda Civic
You can get sleek, head-turning style along with everything a new driver needs when you select the 2018 Honda Civic as your ride. This vehicle was engineered with impressive fuel efficiency, making for less frequent stops at the gas station and less money spent on fuel costs.
The 2018 model of the Civic was built with advanced safety features that offer a helping hand towards keeping a teen or new driver safe. One example is the adaptive cruise control, which makes it easier for a beginner driver to feel safe driving on the highway by managing the cruising speed the vehicle is traveling at, keeping a safe separation from the vehicle ahead.
2019 Chevy Equinox
If you’re looking for an SUV that’s perfect for a new driver, you can’t do much better than the 2019 Chevy Equinox. This model is especially a good choice for anyone searching their local car dealership in Madison for a car for a teen in their life. Teen driver technology provides a number of monitoring and control features that will help keep a young driver safe, giving you an extra level of peace of mind.
You might be able to find this vehicle equipped with the available Custom and Convenience Package. This set of features adds a number of systems that will boost a new driver’s confidence on the road, including blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic alert that allows for confident merging and changing lanes.
2023 Hyundai Tucson
One of the best all-around compact SUVs, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson is a great choice for anyone beginning their journey as a driver. The sleek design of this vehicle will immediately grab your attention, while the comfortable, well-designed interior features great noise cancellation that blocks out external noise to let you enjoy some focus on your drive.
Along with offering great entertainment options to make learning how to drive fun instead of intimidating, this vehicle also comes with confidence-boosting safety features. The driver-attention monitoring system helps to instill the importance of focus in a teen or new driver, mitigating the danger that comes from driving while distracted by a phone or other nuisance.
All of these great vehicles for new drivers and more are waiting for you in the inventory we keep in stock at our dealership. Our team will help you find the perfect vehicle for the new driver in your life at a fantastic price. Check out our used cars in Madison, WI today at Zimbrick Automotive.
How to Save Money on Your Car Payments
Everyone shopping for used cars in Middleton wants to get the best value for their money. The financing you get for your vehicle is an important factor in getting a great deal on your ride. Use the tips below to learn how you can save money on your car payments over time and keep your budget under control.
Decide on the Terms of Your Loan
Before you go searching for used cars for sale, it’s important to think about what kind of financing arrangement you want. The length of your auto loan has a big impact on the amount you have to make for your monthly car payment. Having a clear idea of what you can fit into your budget and how the length of your loan will impact the payments you see will let you make an informed decision.
Deciding on the length of your loan is a tradeoff that you should carefully consider before deciding. Taking a shorter car loan will lead to higher monthly payments, but you’ll accrue less interest and will pay less for the vehicle in the long run as a result. On the other hand, a longer loan will give you a reduced monthly payment, but you’ll have to pay more towards interest over time.
Make Extra Payments if Possible
While it may seem counterintuitive at first glance, spending more money on your auto loan can help you save money in the long run. Known as the ‘snowball method’ of approaching debt, this strategy advises that you pay as much as possible to eliminate an existing debt quickly. Doing so will minimize the amount of interest that accumulates from the debt over time.
Paying half of your monthly payment every 2 weeks.This will be the equivalent of making 13 monthly payments instead of 12. This will shave time and interest fees off of your loan. It’s important to remember that this strategy’s effectiveness and viability depends on your financial situation. You shouldn’t neglect other areas of your budget to put money towards the outstanding balance on your auto loan.
Looking for used cars and used trucks for sale and want to get the best deal possible? Shopping at our car dealership in Madison will let you get a quality ride you can depend on without making you spend outside of your budget. Contact Zimbrick Automotive today to get further assistance from one of our financing experts.
Award Winning Vehicles & Brands
When looking for used cars in Middleton, or throughout the surrounding area, there’s no better place to go than a Zimbrick dealership. We stock all the best brands and vehicles in our extensive selection of used vehicles. Want a preview of what we can offer you? Check out some of the most exciting options we highlighted in our guide below, then contact a member of our team to learn more.
Honda
Civic
Of all the used cars in Madison you can choose from, the Honda Civic is one of the best values out there. The great deal you can purchase this car for gives you sporty, reliable performance that will continue to deliver you outstanding value throughout your future drives with exceptional fuel efficiency.
HR-V
You’ll be ready to take on any conditions when you’re behind the wheel of the Honda HR-V. Real-time all-wheel drive activates when needed to give you more stable traction and a safer ride, allowing you to handle adverse driving conditions with ease.
Chevrolet
Silverado
Drivers love the Chevrolet Silverado lineup because these pickup trucks consistently deliver reliable capability. When you drive this truck away from your local car dealership in Madison, you’ll get powerful engineering backed by the latest tech, like the available Super Cruise system, which allows for semi-autonomous driving on compatible roads.
Equinox
Every trip you take will feel like an unforgettable getaway with the exciting performance the Chevrolet Equinox puts you in command of. And with a maximum cargo capacity of 63.9 cubic feet, you won’t need to leave anything behind when you’re packing up what you need in this vehicle’s thoughtfully-designed interior.
Nissan
Pathfinder
The rugged styling of the Nissan Pathfinder immediately sets it apart from other options for your next SUV, but there are plenty of other things to love about this vehicle. Advanced safety features earn this vehicle high marks from the IIHS, giving you a driving experience you can feel confident in.
Rogue
Your busy life needs a versatile SUV that can keep up with it, and the Nissan Rogue has the can-do attitude needed to achieve that. This vehicle leads its class in fuel efficiency, getting up to 37 miles per gallon on the highway, so you can take your adventures further than you ever thought was possible.
These fantastic vehicles consistently earn recognition and awards from the experts, giving you the quality you can count on. These are only a few of the dozens of options for pre owned cars we can show you at our dealerships. Visit your local Zimbrick dealership today to find your next dream ride.
What Is the Best Vehicle Option for Families?
When shopping for a pre-owned vehicle, it’s important to know what models to look for when you’re going through the best used car lots nearby. Read ahead to see the best used cars for sale for families based on features preferred by our customers with children.
1. 2021 Volkswagen Jetta
The sedan is a staple for families for a reason, and the Volkswagen Jetta is one of the best options when searching through the used cars for sale near your location. It’s ideal if you’re in the market for an affordable compact car with plenty of space in the rear seat.
The 2021 model has a brand-new wireless version of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all trims. You’ll also appreciate the impressive gas mileage and expansive cargo space.
2. 2020 Honda Civic
The Honda Civic offers a compact car option for value-conscious families, with a spacious, attractive cabin in several different body styles. The 2020 Honda Civic was upgraded with new exterior styling and offers a choice of three peppy but eco-conscious engines.
Every trim of the 2020 Civic is loaded with safety features, including the Honda Sensing Suite with adaptive cruise control, road departure warning, lane keep assist with lane departure warning and forward collision warning with collision mitigation braking.
3. 2022 Volkswagen Taos
Volkswagen calls the Taos its “city SUV,” so this crossover is perfect for your shortlist if you live in an urban area (or just appreciate agile handling and a smooth ride). It’s one of the best options in the subcompact SUV class, with plenty of space for groceries, luggage, and sports gear.
The Volkswagen Taos offers a high-end interior and available driver assistance tech, including adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert.
4. 2020 Acura MDX
If you’re in the market for a luxury SUV that fits the entire family, we recommend the 2020 Acura MDX. It has three spacious rows of seats with lots of legroom, providing space for six or seven passengers depending on trim.
The powerful V6 gets some of the best non-electric fuel economy in the class. Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning with lane keep assist all come standard on the 2020 MDX.
5. 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
Just one step up in size from the Taos, the 2021 Tiguan is one of the few compact SUVs you can get with an optional third row. It also provides outstanding fuel economy whether you go for front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive.
Your crew will stay connected with the standard wireless hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Zimbrick Automotive is your source for quality used cars in Madison, WI. Reach out today to schedule your test drive of any of these outstanding family vehicles.
While many people know to change their oil or replace their tires, it’s easy to forget about suspension in used cars in Madison, WI. As we celebrate Car Care Month, remember that suspension maintenance is crucial for the safety and longevity of your car. The suspension system is responsible for a smooth ride and stability on the road, so it’s essential to understand how it works and how to keep it in good condition.
Suspension: How Does It Work?
The suspension system is made up of components that support the weight of the car, absorb bumps, and keep the wheels in contact with the road. The springs, shocks, struts, and control arms work together to provide a comfortable ride. When your car goes over a bump or a pothole, the suspension system takes the impact, compressing and rebounding to keep the wheels where they belong.
Why Is Suspension Maintenance Important?
Over time, the various parts of the suspension system can wear out or become damaged, resulting in a bumpy ride, poor handling, and even a loss of control. Regular suspension maintenance can help to prevent these issues and help your vehicle remain safe and reliable.
What Are the Signs of Suspension Problems?
Aging or damaged suspension will usually signal that it’s time for repair, but you must know what to look for. So, if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time for a qualified professional to take a closer look at your suspension system.
Bumpy Ride
If you’re feeling every bump in the road, it could be a sign that your suspension system isn’t properly absorbing the shocks anymore.
Pulling or Drifting
If your car is pulling to one side or drifting, it could mean a problem with the suspension system.
Noisy Suspension
Clunking or knocking noises when going over bumps may be a sign that your suspension system needs attention.
Leaking Fluids
If you notice fluid leaking from your shocks or struts, it’s a sign that they may need to be replaced.
Uneven Tire Wear
Suspension problems can cause your tires to wear unevenly, affecting handling and performance.
How Can You Maintain Your Suspension System?
Have your suspension system inspected by a professional technician on a regular basis to identify any issues early on. Another way to keep your suspension system in good condition is to check your tires frequently. Proper tire pressure and alignment can help to reduce wear on your suspension system.
If your suspension system is showing signs of wear or damage, it’s time to have the worn components replaced. Avoid driving over potholes, speed bumps, or other obstacles that can damage your suspension system. Don’t overload your car, either. Overloading your vehicle can strain the suspension system, causing premature wear and damage.
Suspension in Used Cars for Sale Near Me
If you’re looking for a used car, make sure to have the suspension checked before your purchase. An expert technician can inspect the suspension to spot worn-out components or leaks. All of our used inventory has been thoroughly inspected, saving you money and giving you peace of mind down the road.
The suspension system is a major component that affects the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Regular maintenance can help to prevent problems before they occur, helping your car remain in good condition for years to come. If you notice any signs of suspension problems, take advantage of our service coupons. It’s time to schedule service at Zimbrick Automotive today.
Why You Should Consider Buying a Used Car
Want to upgrade from your current ride? Choosing one of the quality used cars available in Madison, WI, is a great way to get the most value for your money. Here are some reasons to check out the used vehicles available at local Madison car dealers before deciding on your next purchase.
You Can Find Used Cars for Sale at Great Prices
Getting a great deal is essential when shopping for your next vehicle. Older model-year vehicles, even those from as few as one or two years ago, sell for much less than what you’d see on a brand-new model. With good service, these vehicles will provide reliable performance for years to come, so you don’t need to worry about compromising on quality when choosing a used car. Used vehicles also depreciate much less than new vehicles, protecting the investment you made and affording you better value.Lower Insurance Costs
Along with an excellent initial deal on the price of your used vehicle, you’ll also continue to save money after your purchase. Insurers will typically cover used vehicles for less than a new vehicle, which helps decrease the amount in your monthly budget that goes towards insurance premiums.Wide Variety to Choose from at Zimbrick Automotive
Another benefit of choosing used vehicles is that you’ll have a wide selection available. Shopping at used car dealerships lets you find vehicles of all different makes, models, and years. These vehicles might also include optional features that you can get cheaper than if you added the same feature to a new vehicle.Find Used Cars in Madison, WI
Looking for a used vehicle that you can trust? Our guarantee of quality backs every vehicle in our inventory. Come in today, and our knowledgeable team will help you find the perfect used vehicle for your needs. Shop at Zimbrick Automotive today.How to Shop for Used SUVs
It’s time to stop searching “used car dealers near me” trying to find pre owned cars and used trucks for sale that give you what you’re after — Our guide is here to help. Use these tips to help you find reliable used cars in Madison, WI.
Tips for Finding a Great Vehicle
Do Research in Advance
Before going out to find a used vehicle, take some time to do your homework. Research what models offer what you’re looking for in every detail, whether that be fuel efficiency, towing capacity, safety features, or other features. Then, check the average price of whichever pre owned cars catch your eye so that you can ensure you get a great deal.Buy from a Trusted Source
While you could look for private sellers when buying a used vehicle, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and stress by going to a trustworthy dealership instead. You’ll get help finding the best vehicle for your needs with a better selection while also being confident you’re getting a great price.Great SUVs to Consider
Kia Telluride
Adaptable enough to handle all of life’s challenges and stylish enough to look good doing them in, the Kia Telluride is an SUV that gives you the best of both worlds. Kia Drive Wise safety features bolster your sense of security on the road so you can drive with confidence.Chevrolet Equinox
When it comes to robust SUVs, you may not find a better option than the Equinox. Sporting all-wheel drive (AWD) and a turbo engine, this sleek beast will have you and your passengers cruising the open road in luxurious comfort, ready to perform on or off the road. Spacious seating, ample cargo space, and exceptional safety features make the Equinox an explorer’s dream.Honda CR-V
With a brawny exterior and powerful engine, the Honda CR-V is ready for adventure. Whether you’re headed to the mountains or the market, the CR-V has adaptable seating, easily transformed for ample cargo space. Despite the power, you won’t compromise on fuel efficiency, making the CR-V a favorite among adventurous drivers.Choose Zimbrick Automotive Today
When you’re looking to buy a used vehicle, we’re standing by to help. Our expert team and the convenient online tools we offer will make your car-buying experience easy. Visit Zimbrick Automotive today, and we’ll set you up for success on the road ahead.Top Searched Used Cars in Madison, WI
Stop searching “used cars for sale near me” and “used car dealers near me” while trying to find the ride of your dreams because Zimbrick Automotive of Madison already has the top-searched used cars. These five models are the most popular options in our vast inventory of used cars, SUVs, and used trucks for sale.
Nissan Altima
With sleek sedan style and impressive capability, the Nissan Altima is an excellent all-around choice for your next vehicle. Winning multiple awards in 2019 such as, IIHS Top Safety pick, Motorweek Driver’s Choice, and Automobile Allstars. Available with intelligent all-wheel drive, this vehicle takes on difficult conditions that competitors in its class can’t handle.Chevrolet Equinox
Receiving a 5 star safety rating from the NHTSA in 2023 and highest ranked SUV of 2022 by JD power, the Chevrolet Equinox is a no brainer for your next car. As attractive as it is versatile, the Equinox will help you tackle everything on your to-do list while looking your best. Different trim levels, color schemes, and optional features let you find the Equinox that best matches your unique style.Honda Fit
Awarded the “Best Car for Teens under $20,000” in 2019 by U.S News and World Report, the Honda Fit is one eye-catching compact car that you won’t want to pass up. The hatchback design gives you a spacious cargo area to work with, so you don’t need to leave anything behind on your next outing.Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Kelly Blue Book’s best mid sized SUV is earning accolades across the board. Winning the IIHS Top Safety Pick for the past 11 years, the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport will have everybody taking notice from the moment you arrive on the scene. Along with great looks, this vehicle features a cabin with plenty of legroom and all the amenities that you and your passengers could ask for.GMC Terrain
Luxury can be yours for a great price when you choose a used GMC Terrain for your next vehicle. Newer models come with high-tech features, like built-in Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa, for you to enjoy a more convenient, intuitive ride.Get in Touch Today
Shop at Zimbrick Automotive today to get behind the wheel of one of our excellent used cars for sale. Stop in today because our top searched cars will be gone in the blink of an eye. Contact us to get started, and we’ll get you your vehicle at the best price possible.What Are the Three Types of Electric Vehicles?
It’s time to stop searching “used car dealership near me” and “car dealerships near me” trying to look for that dream electric vehicle that you’ve been imagining. Doing your research before going to your local car dealership in Madison is vital to getting an EV that has what you’re looking for. Check out our guide on the different types of EVs below so you have a better understanding when you go shopping for used cars in Madison, WI.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles
The first category of EV is hybrid electric vehicles. These vehicles use a combination of the power generated by a conventional fuel-powered engine and supplemental power from electric sources to get around. This allows drivers to enjoy greater fuel efficiency than gas combustion vehicles can achieve.
Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Another type of EV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. These are differentiated from other hybrid vehicles because they are designed to be charged from an external source. With charging stations all over the country to use, this makes the driving experience that much more convenient while providing the same efficiency as other hybrids.
Battery Electric Vehicles
Moving beyond hybrid vehicles to fully-electric vehicles, we first have battery electric vehicles. These EVs run only on electric energy and can be plugged into an external source to recharge their batteries. This allows drivers to cut out their gas station bill completely, leading to big savings on energy costs.
Find the Best Used Cars in Madison, WI
Buying a used electric vehicle lets you in on the cutting edge of what’s new in the automotive world for a lower price. Find your nearest Zimbrick dealership and see our team today if you want to see the EV options we have waiting for you.
The Zimbrick Technician Apprenticeship in Madison, W
By 2024, there will be a shortage of approximately 642,000 technicians (automotive, diesel, and collision) in the industry. To take care of our valued customers, the Zimbrick Service and Parts Director team came to a unanimous conclusion. We need to “grow our own”. The antiquated version of automotive apprenticeship was not going to cut it. We needed a new model and began implementation in early 2022.
The goal was to launch a program that will attract and retain potential apprentices to Zimbrick by offering tuition reimbursement and a tool program. We are invested in leading the next generation of aspiring technicians through our Apprentice Program. The Apprentice Program is designed to combine brand specific, hands-on technical education and real world work experience. Zimbrick features a blended learning model, which combines Technician Mentor/Educator led training with hands-on application and online manufacturer courses. Should an apprentice be enrolled in a high school or technical college automotive program, our goal is to mirror the dealership training to their academic curriculum.
Apprentices explore a variety of techniques to maintain vehicles. In addition, they study diagnostics and repair procedures for engines, transmissions, fuel, brakes, electrical, steering/suspension, exhaust, and advanced technology systems as well as hybrid, diesel and EV systems. This foundation builds their base knowledge from the ground up, allowing for Certification options with all of our manufacturers.
Our ideal apprentice has a strong work ethic, the desire to learn, with the discipline and drive to succeed. They are trustworthy, dependable, and looking for a career with endless potential. They will have excellent problem-solving abilities, mechanical and technical aptitude. They must also have the ability to effectively communicate one-on-one with customers or employees within our organization.
There is no better way to grow our business than to invest in apprenticeships, to invest in the skills that can make a difference to our apprentice’s careers. We are very proud to see this career path growing and we are looking forward to make it an even more essential part of our future.

