EV Service Checklist
Electric vehicles, or EVs, are the future of driving, with more drivers switching to this class of vehicles than ever before. Once you’ve searched “used car lots near me” and “used cars near me” to choose your ideal EV, you’ll need to provide it with adequate maintenance to keep it running right. Here are some maintenance tips from your Madison car dealership on how to keep your EV in good shape.
EV Service Checklist
Battery Service at Your Madison Car Dealership
Because an electric motor runs with less friction than a combustion engine does, it typically requires less maintenance. However, maintaining the battery is essential to the performance of your vehicle. When kept in the right conditions, EV batteries can run for up to 15 years, giving you a stress-free vehicle ownership experience.
There are a few things you can do to extend the lifespan of your EV’s battery. If possible, avoid exposing your vehicle to extreme temperatures. You should also avoid consistently using fast chargers as these can degrade batteries quicker than other chargers will. Avoid fully charging or fully depleting the battery, as this can also degrade it faster than normal.
Brake Service
Your EV needs properly working brakes so that you’re able to slow down or stop in time when vehicles or other obstacles cross your path. Get your brake fluid and brake pads checked out on a regular basis and swap them out as needed.
Tire Service
EVs need tire service slightly more often than other vehicles due to the extra weight of EV batteries. Getting your tires rotated can help to even out the wear and tear each tire faces so they stay in good shape for longer. You’ll also need to get your tires replaced with a new set once the tread has become worn down.
Find Your EV at Our Madison Car Dealership
It’s time to stop searching “used cars near me” for an EV or other vehicles. Our selection of new and used vehicles has something for everybody, and our team will help you find the right option to meet your needs. We also provide first-class service to keep your vehicle running in optimal condition, so shop at Zimbrick Automotive today.
Certified Pre Owned Cars in Madison
Certified pre-owned cars come with many advantages that most used cars don’t. Below are just some of the exceptional benefits that come with certified pre-owned cars.
4 Advantages of Shopping for Certified Pre-Owned Cars
1. Certified Used Cars Have Stringent Inspections
One of the biggest advantages of certified pre-owned cars is that they must pass an extensive manufacturer inspection. In the state of Wisconsin, all used cars sold by a dealer must pass a basic safety inspection. But a certified preowned inspection has much stricter standards.
A service technician, certified by the manufacturer, must inspect the vehicle and any problems that are identified will be corrected by the factory trained technician. Recalls will be completed if any exist per manufacturer guidelines and safety protocols. Any required maintenance necessary will be performed along with necessary replacement parts installed. In the end, you get a safe and reliable vehicle that’s in great condition.
Many of these vehicles have never had any mechanical problems at all. Most commonly, certified
pre-owned vehicles are returned leases or fleet vehicles that were used for a short time, so they tend
to be in good condition already. But the extra level of inspection gives added confidence when you go car shopping.
2. Recent Model Years
Certified pre-owned cars are known for having lower mileage. Certified pre-owned cars are required to be more recent model years and have mileage limits in order to be certified.
Often there is subvented finance rates available from the manufacturer when purchasing a certified pre-owned. This allows you to receive a relatively newer car with lower interest rate options.
3. Certified Cars Come With Detailed Maintenance History
In addition to inspections, certified used vehicles usually have robust maintenance records. These details assist in making a confident purchase. Knowing that your car has been taken care of goes a long way in providing peace of mind that your purchase is going to run great the day you drive it off the lot and for many more miles to come.
When comparing certified pre owned cars to used cars for sale, you’ll see that the certified cars tend to command a higher price. However, that investment is well worth the additional cost based on the condition of the car and the warranty it carries.
4. Certified Cars come with a Manufacturer’s Warranty
Typically certified used cars come with a lengthened warranty from the manufacturer, not the selling dealer. You can also ask your local dealer about extending the warranty even further.
If you’re looking for the best used cars in Madison WI, visit Zimbrick Automotive or browse our used
and certified pre-owned cars for sale.
Five Tips for Buying Used Cars in Madison, WI
Things to Do Before Buying Used Cars in Madison, WI
If you’re shopping for a used car in Madison at the used car lots, you will come across many pre-owned cars no matter which car dealership you visit. For this reason, you need to know how to narrow down your search to the best options for the best value on a quality used car.
Define What You Need.
What kind of vehicle are you looking for? A small SUV, a sedan, a pickup truck. An EV?
What is your budget?
Check your credit score to determine what kind of financing you qualify for.
Look into the costs of ownership, including auto insurance, gas mileage, and the cost of repairs on the vehicles you are considering. If you are wanting to save money on our used vehicles, browse our used car specials to see what works for you.
Start Online.
Find out which dealers have the vehicles you are interested in at a price you can afford. Dealer websites, like Zimbrick.com, allow you to sort inventory by make, model, price, mileage, and much more.
Call and set up a test drive for the 2 or 3 vehicles that fit your criteria.
Visit the Dealership — Test Drive & Ask Questions.
Make sure you test drive each vehicle you are considering. How does the seat feel? Are there any blind spots? How does the car handle? Is there any visible damage that would concern you?
Check the Mileage of Pre Owned Cars.
High mileage on a vehicle isn’t always a deal breaker, it just depends on how much wear and tear the vehicle has experienced. If the vehicle is in excellent condition and has higher mileage, it could still be a good option. Vehicles with over 100,000 miles may require more maintenance than other pre owned options with fewer miles.
Ask About the Vehicle History.
Hidden damage may be more difficult to detect in-person, which is why the vehicle’s history report is so important. Be sure to review the cars history. Was it a rental car? How many owners has it had? Has it been involved in an accident? If it has been in an accident, how severe was the damage?
All Zimbrick pre owned cars come with a free CARFAX report. Also ask about any maintenance the dealership has completed on the car before it was put on the lot. Ask about oil changes, tires, and if the manufacturer-recommended maintenance for the vehicle’s mileage has been completed.
Learn More About Warranties.
Does the used vehicle come with a remaining factory warranty? Is it a Certified Pre Owned Vehicle that offers a warranty from the manufacturer? What is the warranty offered by the dealer? Remember to ask about what each warranty option covers, and how many months, or miles, you will be covered for.
Ask About Financing & Insurance Options.
A good dealership will work with many lenders to align with your credit situation. Interest rates vary with the length of time you have to repay the loan, as well as credit score. If you are on a tight budget, look at purchasing an extended warranty. With a warranty, you are buying coverage for big ticket fixes that may be needed in the future. Instead of paying the cost of a repair all at once, you are building it into your monthly car payment.
Visit the Service Department.
If you are planning to use the dealership for your maintenance, repairs and service needs, now is the time to check out the Service Department. Does the waiting room look like a place that you would feel comfortable waiting? Is it clean ad comfortable? Do they offer any amenities like a children’s play area, free Wi-Fi, or snacks?
How Was the Overall Shopping Experience?
Did you get all of your questions answered? Did you feel like your salesperson was helping you find the right car for you? Were you treated with respect? Buying a car is a big purchase, so you shouldn’t feel pressured or rushed.
If you’ve been searching for “car dealers near me” or “used car dealerships near Madison”, visit us today at Zimbrick Automotive to explore our used inventory and find your next vehicle. Our expert team is ready to assist you.
Advantages of AWD Driving for Safer Winter Driving
Winter is a time to enjoy the holidays and memorable outings with family and friends. It’s also, sadly, a time for more accidents due to slippery roads and snow. AWD vehicles are an excellent choice for winter conditions. As your trusted car dealership in Madison, WI, we’d like to tell you more about their advantages when you need to drive in winter.
The Advantages of AWD in Winter
How Does AWD Work?
AWD (all-wheel drive) is very different from FWD (front-wheel drive) and RWD (rear-wheel drive) drivetrains. FWD and RWD vehicles are controlled by two wheels, the front wheels in an FWD and the rear wheels in an RWD. Under normal driving conditions, there’s no significant difference between the two drivetrains.
An AWD drivetrain provides different levels of power to all four wheels. If one of the wheels is struggling on ice or mud, the transmission computer transfers extra power to the other three wheels to help get you moving again. If you regularly drive through the winter, invest in an AWD by checking out our used cars for sale in Madison, WI.
Advantages of AWD
The AWD transmission scores over FWD and RWD in winter conditions as its ability to shift power automatically allows you to drive safely and comfortably. Sensors in the wheels report to your car’s computer, which then adjusts the pressure and power of the wheels. In winter, poor driving conditions can mean you must react quickly, and an AWD does this for you.
These are two ways an AWD drivetrain can make driving easier and less stressful this winter:
Safer on Slippery Surfaces
Snow, mud, and ice are slippery, particularly if traveling over rough terrain. Even with good snow tires, FWD and RWD vehicles are at a disadvantage as they only have two wheels to move and grip the surface. The other two wheels on FWD and RWD just spin. An AWD drivetrain compensates for the surface by providing traction with all four wheels.
No Spinning on a Corner
When you corner and the road is covered in snow or ice, an FWD or RWD vehicle has only two wheels to keep you moving. If those wheels lose traction, you’ll start to spin. An AWD from our used cars and trucks for sale will get you safely around that corner as all four wheels are pushing you ahead.
Now you know more about AWD, come in and see our fantastic range of vehicles today at Zimbrick Automotive.
Car Care Month: Prepping for Fall
Your search began with “used cars for sale near me,” which landed you behind the wheel of your dream vehicle. What next? Now is the time to prepare your vehicle for the season’s challenges. Here are some tips for protecting used cars in Madison, WI, during the fall.
Car Care Month: Prepping for Fall
Steps to Take Before Fall Arrives to Protect Used Cars in Madison, WI
Cover Your Vehicle
Leaves falling onto your vehicle can cause damage to the paint job. Ideally, you can keep your vehicle in a garage to protect it from falling leaves, but this may not be possible for all drivers. If you don’t have a garage for your vehicle, consider investing in a cover for when it’s parked.
Apply a Fresh Coat of Wax
Another way to protect your vehicle’s paint job from falling leaves is to apply a coat of wax over the paint. This provides a protective seal over the paint to prevent damage from occurring. There are several types of wax out there, so asking a professional can help determine which is best for your needs.
Get Your Tires Checked
Wet leaves on the road surface can make it difficult for your vehicle to get the traction needed to avoid losing control. If your tires don’t have the proper amount of tread to grip the road, that becomes even more of a risk. Get your tires checked to ensure they’re in adequate condition to handle the coming season.
Keep Up on Routine Maintenance
Along with taking steps to prepare for the season ahead, you mustn’t overlook the normal maintenance routine your vehicle requires. Make sure you’re keeping up on oil changes and tire rotations to keep your vehicle in the best condition. A service technician can tell you everything you need to know about maintaining your vehicle.
Find Used Cars Near Madison, WI.
If you have not yet found your ideal vehicle and are looking for the perfect used car for the fall season, Zimbrick Automotive has you covered. Do you need your vehicle serviced before the season arrives? We’re ready to help you prepare for the road ahead.
Visit our team of professionals at Zimbrick Automotive for all your vehicle sales and service needs.
10 Tailgating Essentials You Need in Your Car
The only thing better than the big game is the tailgating party leading up to it. There are a few classic home essential supplies, but we’re here to show you what you need for the genuine vehicle tailgating experience.
10 Tailgating Essentials You Need in Your Car
1. Portable Power Station
Need to keep everyone’s devices up and running so you can get updates about the upcoming game? Bring a portable power station to ensure your batteries have the necessary juice.
2. Bluetooth Speaker
Any tailgating event needs a soundtrack to go with it. Pack a Bluetooth-capable speaker so you can easily play your favorite songs from your smartphone’s music library.
3. Decent-Sized Cooler
Of course, no tailgating event is complete without plenty of tasty beverages and snacks. Get a good-sized cooler or two to bring enough to share with all your guests.
4. Portable Grill
Coolers are great, but sometimes the season calls for fresh, hot food. A portable grill enables you to get that tasty-flamed flavor no matter where you are.
5. Pop-Up Canopy
You never know when the weather will interfere with your tailgating plans. Be prepared for anything the elements can throw at you by having a pop-up canopy ready to provide shelter.
6. Condiment Caddy
You’ve got your essentials as far as food goes, but now you need all the fixings for your meal. A condiment caddy makes it easy to keep all your toppings and extras organized.
7. Crock Pot
The slow-cooked deliciousness of a crock pot is perfect for serving up a hot tailgate. Just make sure the one you choose is easily portable for maximum convenience.
8. Cornhole
Every tailgate party needs fun activities to pass the time. Cornhole is an excellent choice because it’s easy to pack and set up..
9. Paper Plates
You don’t want your guests eating out of their hands, so for an added touch, get plates branded with your favorite team to show your support from the moment your tailgating party begins.
10. Outdoor Blanket
Want to lay around for a while after you’ve eaten your fill? An outdoor blanket spread out nearby will provide a place to lounge comfortably.
Once you have everything on our list, you’ll only need the perfect tailgating vehicle. Stop searching “used car lots near me” and visit our dealership to view our selection of used cars for sale. Contact Zimbrick Automotive to find your ideal tailgating machine!
Check Engine Light – Your Questions Answered
You’re driving along in your vehicle, and suddenly a light illuminates on your dash. Like most drivers, you may be unsure how you should react. The check engine light is the most misunderstood indicator on your dashboard: It can mean many different things. Known technically as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), this warning light in your instrument cluster is in the shape of a car engine. Depending on your vehicle, the light can be orange, red, or yellow. Some models display “check engine” with the engine outline or “service engine soon.” It is not to be confused with your vehicle’s maintenance or service required light, which alerts you that an oil change or other scheduled maintenance is due.
The check engine light signals that the onboard diagnostics system has detected a malfunction in one of the vehicle’s systems. Read on, and we’ll explore some possible issues that can cause this alert to show so you can get to the bottom of the issue.
Why Is My Check Engine Light On?
If the check engine light is on steady, the problem is likely not an emergency. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure, overheating, and other critical system failures. If there are no other indicators or performance issues, you should schedule a service appointment at your earliest convenience. Today’s automotive computers often try to compensate when there’s a problem, so you might not notice deterioration in performance. Ignore that warning, and you could end up damaging expensive components. It can also signify that your car is getting poor fuel economy and emitting higher levels of pollutants.
If the check engine light is flashing or blinking, this indicates an issue severe enough to cause damage to critical systems. If the check engine light is blinking or you notice any serious performance problems, such as a loss of power, reduce your speed and try to reduce the demands on the engine. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so.
Some specific issues may be:
Loose or Faulty Gas Cap
One possible cause for your check engine light activating is an issue with the gas cap. Fortunately, this can often easily be remedied by simply tightening the cap more firmly in place. If you tighten the gas cap as per instructions in your vehicle’s owner manual and still see the check engine light, the gas cap might need replacing.
Spark Plugs Need Replacing
To ignite the fuel in your vehicle and kick off the combustion process that powers the engine, your vehicle needs to spark the plugs. If the spark plugs begin to become worn, this could cause the check engine light could activate. Bring your vehicle in for service to have the spark plugs replaced. If the light goes off, the problem is solved.
Malfunction in the Oxygen Sensor
Your vehicle monitors the engine’s airflow to determine how much fuel needs to be used to power the engine. If the monitoring sensor isn’t working correctly, your engine won’t perform as efficiently. If you see your check engine light on, it may be time to replace the oxygen sensor.
Catalytic Converter Issues
The catalytic converter helps to minimize the environmental impact of your vehicle’s emissions. If there’s an issue with this component, it might cause your check engine light to come on. In addition to replacing the catalytic converter, you should also figure out what caused the issue in the first place so you can take care of the problem at its source.
What should you do next?
- Many modern vehicles have integrated remote diagnostic capabilities, with the ability to report on trouble codes, advise on the next steps, arrange for towing and schedule a service appointment. Use these built-in diagnostic services if available.
- Contact Roadside Assistance. Your vehicle may have roadside assistance through its manufacturer. It is also usually offered through your auto insurance provider or available through third-party providers. When you’re stranded on the side of the road, a roadside assistance program will connect you with the right professionals to get you back on the road safely.
- Call your dealership Automotive professionals can guide you through the next steps, whether that means bringing the vehicle in for diagnostics, organizing a tow service, or arranging alternate transportation.
Every driver should understand the meaning of warning lights that signal problems with their vehicles. Your owner’s manual will illustrate where the symbols appear on your instrument panel and help you interpret their meaning. Take this information seriously and pay attention to any warning light that comes on.
Remember that many vehicle breakdowns are avoidable with preventative maintenance. Preventative maintenance is often neglected as it can seem expensive or unnecessary, but you’ll appreciate the investment when an issue is identified before causing a breakdown. If something unavoidable happens despite all your efforts, you now know what to do should that check engine light come on.
Whether you’re looking to take care of your service needs, like getting to the bottom of a check engine light or upgrading to your next ride, our dealership is the place to go. Find used cars for sale and used trucks for sale at Zimbrick Automotive! Stop by today or contact us online.
If you’re looking for used cars for sale and want to upgrade to something new, you have plenty of options. If you’re trading in an older vehicle for something more recent, that vehicle will probably come with a key fob in place of the traditional key you’re accustomed to using. If that’s the case, you may have some questions. The good news is that key fobs are upgrades from the keys of the past, and most of the used cars in Madison, WI, will have one, which will simplify your life.
What Happens If My Key Dies?
Key fobs are battery-operated and send a wireless signal to your vehicle so that you don’t have to manually unlock your car when you’re ready to go. While these batteries are long-lasting, they won’t last forever, but they are simple to replace. If your key fob dies, you don’t have to worry about being locked out of your car since key fobs have a removable metal key inside to unlock the vehicle until you replace your battery.
How Do I Keep a Spare Key in My Car?
Newer cars have the technology to immediately recognize and respond to key fobs when in range, which can pose a problem for those who want to store an extra key fob in their vehicle. There’s a simple solution: wrap your spare key fob in aluminum foil. Doing so will block the key fob signal so you can lock your car without risk.
What If I Lose My Key Fob?
Whether you lose your key fob or need an extra one for some reason, you will need to go to the dealer. The dealership doesn’t just hand out key fobs to anyone; they must be programmed for your specific vehicle. Whether you need a spare to keep at home just in case, or you’ve lost or damaged yours, the dealer will provide you with a spare.
Are There Used Cars for Sale With Key Fob Insurance?
At Zimbrick Automotive, we know that you’re not going far without your key, which is why we offer key fob insurance. When you buy your vehicle, you can add our Complete Titanium Plus Protection plan to secure key fob insurance, which covers up to $800 in new keys annually. Whether you need an additional key fob or lost or damaged yours, we’ve got you covered. Additionally, this plan will give you peace of mind as it includes:
- Windshield repair
- Dent and ding repair
- Tire and wheel service
- Roadside assistance
If you’re looking for a quality pre-owned vehicle you can trust, we have an extensive selection of options that will meet the needs of all different drivers. Contact us today at Zimbrick Automotive, to learn more about our selection and the Complete Titanium Plus Protection plan.
How To Prepare Your Car For Summer Weather
Summertime means more road trips, travel, and increased AC use, all of which require a well-maintained vehicle. To prepare your car for summer, you need to find a reputable car service center in Madison that you can trust. At Zimbrick Automotive, we not only offer excellent service and a variety of options, but also provide a wide range of service coupons to help you save money. Our experienced service technicians perform battery service, tire service, brake service, and oil changes in Madison, WI, plus so much more — ensuring you can always feel confident in your vehicle.
Summer Travel 101
Summer travel requires a reliable, well-working vehicle, which means you need your oil changed and your brakes, battery, and tires checked to ensure your vehicle is running smoothly. Once you get the green light from an experienced service technician, you can drive with confidence on all your trips and commutes, from grocery runs to cross-country road trips.
The Importance of an Oil Change in Madison
Regular oil changes are important for summer travel and year-round car maintenance because they maintain engine health. Clean oil helps keep the engine lubricated so that it doesn’t have to work as hard to run efficiently. Not scheduling regular oil changes can cause your engine to produce more heat, and when excess engine heat combines with excess environmental heat, your vehicle is put at risk.
Battery Service
A dead battery will not only interfere with road trips and summer plans, but also put all of your commutes on hold. It’s important that you have a technician examine and service your battery before hitting the road to make sure it’s ready for any length of a trip.
Brake Service and Tire Service
Servicing your brakes is especially important given their role in keeping both you and your vehicle safe. It’s always helpful to have a service technician check the quality of your brakes because sometimes the symptoms of brake wear can be easy to miss. You should also have your tires checked so that you aren’t at risk of getting stranded on your road trip due to a sudden tire puncture.
Don’t Forget the Service Coupons
Servicing your vehicle doesn’t have to be expensive. At Zimbrick Automotive, we make quality car service affordable and accessible for drivers of all different budgets. We offer plenty of service coupons you can use to save money on the services you need the most and keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
Don’t embark on a road trip without making sure your vehicle is working at its best. Our experts will evaluate your vehicle to ensure that its tires, brakes, and battery are in prime condition, make repairs and replacements as needed, and perform an oil change so you can hit the road. Contact us today at Zimbrick Automotive to schedule your service appointment.
What To Look For in Your First EV
If you’re shopping for used cars in Madison, there are many benefits to making your next car an EV. Each electric vehicle has advantages to accommodate your budget, taste, and preferences. When looking for electric cars for sale in Madison, WI, you can choose from quality used and preowned EV models, but first, you must know what to look for when shopping for each so that you end up with the vehicle that’s right for you.
Choosing From the New Electric Vehicles for Sale
One of the benefits of shopping for a brand new electric vehicle is that you’ll have a wide selection. Brands that didn’t make electric vehicles now have one or more options, including luxury brands like BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche. Now, even the GMC Hummer is an electric vehicle, so if you want the aggression of a large vehicle run by electric power, it’s an excellent option.
New car shoppers are increasingly tech-savvy as the options expand yearly, so exploring the technology package is definitely on the checklist for your new EV.
Do you want a car that charges quickly, or can you afford the time for a slower one? Learning about charge levels will help you narrow down your choices.
Another consideration is range. How far do you drive as a routine? Will you be using your new EV for road trips? EVs are more efficient in the city than on the interstate, so understanding an EV’s projected range will also help pin down your best options for an EV model that best suits your lifestyle.
How much power or ground clearance do you need? Do you need an EV truck because you use it for worksites? Do you need an EV work van for your company? Do you need an EV SUV with space for the whole family? All considerations to discuss with your sales professional.
When you purchase a new electric vehicle, you’ll want to know its specific charging requirements as well as the charging station locations within a radius of your home. You also need to know what kind of charging station you’ll need for your garage so that you don’t have to depend on charging stations for all your power needs.
Electric Used Cars in Madison: Finding the Best Options
If you determine a pre-owned electric vehicle is the best option for you and your budget, there are some specifics you’ll need to look for to ensure you get a quality option. First, you must learn about the vehicle’s history, including its maintenance history. Electric vehicles typically require less maintenance than traditional vehicles, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require regular service.
When shopping for a used EV, ensure the vehicle has the range you need and sufficient life left in the battery.
Find Your First EV at Zimbrick Automotive Group
If you’re in the market for an EV or other quality new or used cars in Madison, we have incredible options from multiple brands at varying price points. Whether you want a luxury electric vehicle or something more economical, our sales experts will help you find the perfect car. Visit us today at one of our Zimbrick Automotive Group locations to see our electric vehicle selection in person and let’s get you behind the wheel of your first EV.
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