The Overall Cost of EV Ownership
There are many benefits to entering the world of EV ownership. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle and are considering switching from gas-powered to electric, you’re probably wondering about the cost differences and how they’ll affect you long term. If you’re ready to shop the different used cars for sale, we have plenty of electric cars for sale in Madison, WI, at our dealership: cars that will save you money long-term.
The Tax Benefits
Unlike gas-powered vehicles, electric vehicles qualify owners for a significant tax credit. Most popular electric vehicle models qualify for this incentive, and the total tax credit ultimately depends on the vehicle’s battery size. Drivers who choose hybrid models will receive a lower tax credit than those who choose fully electric vehicles, in which case you can expect several thousand dollars in federal incentives.
Fuel Savings
Buying an electric vehicle means you’ll no longer have to plan regular trips to the gas station, search for the cheapest or least crowded station, and fight over pumps when the prices rise or there’s yet another gas shortage. You’ll save thousands of dollars yearly in fuel costs because you won’t have to rely on gas to power your vehicle.
Plus, you can take advantage of the many free public charging stations at restaurants, universities, gas stations, and other locations all over the country. Whether driving around your local area or heading out on a road trip, you can search for free charging stations online with an interactive map that will give you links to locations throughout the country.
You’ll Save Money on Vehicle Maintenance
Because electric vehicles require fewer parts than traditional vehicles, the maintenance costs are far cheaper than gas-powered vehicles. Drivers who choose electric vehicles may spend 40% less on maintenance costs than those who own gas-powered vehicles.
Shopping for Used Cars for Sale? Consider an EV
If you’re in the market for a pre-owned vehicle, you can’t go wrong with an electric option. In the long run, you’ll benefit from tax incentives, save money on fuel and maintenance, and help the environment.
At Zimbrick Automotive, we have electric vehicles that can meet the needs of drivers with all different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for an economical or luxury vehicle, we have plenty of options. The most popular automotive brands, like BMW, Porsche, Audi, GMC, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz, and more, have designed some incredible electric options, and we carry them here at our dealership.
If you want to enter the electric vehicle world, our expert team can help you choose the right option at the right price. Visit us today at Zimbrick Automotive to browse our new and pre-owned electric vehicle inventory, learn more about the advantages of driving an EV, and test drive your favorite model.
Surging gas prices may have you thinking about an electric, hybrid or plug-in vehicle for your next purchase. But in the automobile era of alternative energy technologies, it can be hard to differentiate between the many options to determine which type of car might be right for you.
Below is a look at EVs, hybrids and plug-in hybrids to explain the key differences and help you decide which option may be best suited for your driving and spending styles.
What is an EV?
“EV” is short for “electric vehicle” and applies to cars with no gas tank or engine. Electric vehicles use a large battery that is charged by plugging it into a standard wall outlet, wall charger or roadside plug-in station.
Many EVs can be driven around 250 miles on a single charge, while some models can travel more than twice that distance before needing a charge.
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What is a Hybrid?
A hybrid car has a gas engine as well as at least one electric motor. Sometimes the gas engine is propelling the car, sometimes the electric motor is doing all the work and at other times the two systems are teaming up together. Unlike an EV, the battery in a hybrid is not plugged in to charge. Instead, it’s charged by regenerative braking and internal combustion of the engine.
When the gas engine is engaged, the electric motor supplements the powertrain to improve gas mileage. Many hybrid cars get more than 50 miles per gallon of fuel economy.
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What is a plug-in hybrid?
A plug-in hybrid is a mix between a gas-powered hybrid and an EV. Like an EV, the battery can be charged by plugging in and serves as the primary energy source. And like a hybrid, a gas engine can work in tandem with the electric motor or take over completely when the battery dies.
Which type of car is right for you?
Now that you understand the basic difference between an EV, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, which type of car is right for you?
Test drive all three at Zimbrick Automotive and let our team of experts help you further understand each type of car so you can decide which one fits your needs. Shop our new and used car selection online or visit one of our many Madison, WI locations.
EV Charging Station Guide
Buying your first electric vehicle (EV) can be really exciting. Not only can EVs help you curb your environmental footprint, but they can also spare you the need to spend big bucks at the gas pump.
As exciting as electric cars can be, they may take some getting used to. Specifically, you’ll need to learn your way around an EV charging station. Here are a few general pointers.
Where Do Most People Charge Their EVs?
First and foremost, it should be pointed out that a majority of EV owners do their charging at home; in fact, about 80 percent of all EV charging happens at home. But for those who are traveling or who are unable to charge at home, the nation has a vast and growing network of public charging stations.
What Type of Charger Should I Use?
Every electric vehicle in the country is compatible with U.S. standard level 2 chargers, which are more technically known as SAE J1772. The only quasi-exception is Tesla; you actually can charge Teslas with a SAE J1772, you’ll just need to take a moment to plug in the adapter that came with your car.
How Can I Find the Nearest EV Charging Station?
Finding an EV charging station is surprisingly easy. There are a number of online directories you can connect with, including PlugShare, Open Charge Map, and ChargeHub, to name three of the most widely-used.
What Should I Expect at the Charging Station?
The charging units at these power stations are weatherproof and suitable for all conditions. The handles are lightweight and easy to lift. As for charging time, a good rule of thumb is about 35 miles of range per hour. (There are also some DC fast-charging stations, many of them Tesla-specific, where you can get a much faster charge; these are not as common, but you can find info on any of the EV directory sites.
Find Your Electric Car at Zimbrick Automotive
If you have any additional questions about EV charging or about EVs for sale in Madison, WI, we invite you to visit Zimbrick Automotive. We’d be happy to show you our extensive inventory of electric cars for sale and simply talk with you about the advantages of EV ownership. Our team will be happy to assist you.
Should I Buy an EV Over a Gas-Powered Car?
As you shop for your next vehicle, you’ll need to sort through a number of important decisions. For example, you’ll face choices over make and model, the size of the car, the color, the trim level, and more. But there’s an even more fundamental decision that all buyers need to contend with, and that’s the decision between buying an electric vehicle (EV) or a gas-powered car.
Even 20 years ago, this decision may have been a lot easier to make, simply because EVs were still relatively rare and generally not as advanced. But electric vehicle engineering has progressed considerably, which means there are limitless options today, including EVs that are just as robust and state-of-the-art as their gas-powered counterparts.
Buying an EV: Pros and Cons
Even so, buying an EV comes with some pros and some cons. Let’s consider both angles.
The Pros of Buying an EV
- With an EV you won’t have to fill up at the gas pump, which means you can potentially save a great deal of money.
- For drivers who are concerned with sustainability and lowering their emissions, EVs are by far the eco-friendlier option.
- Buying EVs may also entitle you to certain tax credits, another great economic incentive.
- Generally speaking, EVs require less maintenance than gas-powered cars do.
The Cons of Buying an EV
- Historically, EVs have been a little pricier, though this has started to change. And they can still be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Charging an all-electric vehicle can be a time-consuming process.
- In some parts of the country, finding a charging station may be more challenging.
- EVs often bring higher car insurance premiums.
Ultimately, those who do end up buying EVs are almost always satisfied with their purchase. If you’re still on the fence, a good next step would be test driving an EV at a local dealership.
Learn More About EVs at Zimbrick Automotive
Interested in learning more about the advantages of purchasing used EVs for sale in Madison WI? Zimbrick Automotive is here to help. Our experts can answer your questions about these vehicles and even show you our wide selection of electric vehicles for sale.
Automotive Accessories for Every Lifestyle
Taking a vehicle that you love and adding accessories is a great way to make your driving experience perfect. Here at Zimbrick Automotive, we want to help you with every aspect of your vehicle whether that means helping you find the best cars for sale or adding on a great roof rack to store your luggage. Our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Accessories Add Functionality
If you would like to add some type of functionality to your vehicle, we are here to help. We are passionate about cars and keep up with all the latest trends and options when it comes to OEM and aftermarket accessories. Whether you are looking to add a bike rack, trailer hitch, truck bed liner, roof rack, window tinting, or any other accessory, our team will make it happen. These types of accessories really help to add the functionality that you need to ensure your vehicle will meet your requirements today and long into the future.
Fun Accessories
Of course, not all accessories are meant to add some type of functionality to your vehicle. Some of them are just for fun. We sell things like keychains, t-shirts, and much more to add some fun to your driving experience. These options are branded with things like manufacturer logos, car quotes, and much more. If you love cars as much as we do, these fun accessories are a perfect option to consider.
We are Here for You
No matter what type of accessories you are looking for, our team is here to help. Visit our dealership in Madison, WI to see our wide selection of cars for sale or to get a needed add-on item. For accessories – visit or call the parts department to get an accessory installed onto your vehicle. We look forward to serving you soon.
Why Should You Buy an Electric Vehicle?
In the past, electric cars were seen as a rare commodity that you’d only see once in a blue moon. In recent years, more and more have made their way into the mainstream, so it’s no longer uncommon to spot them on your daily commute. But why has there been such a surge in the number of electric vehicles on the road, and why is it a good time to invest in your own electric vehicle? Read on to find out.
Why Electric Vehicles are the Way to Go
Here are just a few reasons as to why an electric car may be the ideal choice for your next vehicle.
- Ubiquitous charging stations. Electric car charging stations are becoming increasingly common, and finding one at your local gas station is getting much easier. In addition to this, many large retailers have charging stations right in their parking lots.
- Better mileage. As gas prices continue to rise, many people are looking for alternative options for vehicles. Electric cars can ultimately help you save money when it comes to “refueling,” because of lower charging fees and better mileage.
- Improved technology. Electric cars were once thought to be a science fiction concept. But thanks to modern technological improvements, they’re becoming much easier to manufacture, maintain, and repair. When you buy an electric car, you don’t need to worry about having trouble finding a reputable service center to handle repairs.
- Increased options. As mentioned earlier, electric cars were a rarity not too long ago, and if you wanted to buy one, your choices were limited. Nowadays, you’ll have a wide selection to choose from, so you can get an electric car that is right for you.
Which Electric Vehicle is Right for You?
Ready to take the leap and purchase an electric vehicle? Our comprehensive EV buying guide, available at our car dealership in Madison, will help you figure out which electric car is ideal for you. Contact us today with any other questions you may have, and we’ll be sure to help put your mind at ease.
Tips for New Car Owners
Shopping for your first vehicle can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a little bit nerve-wracking. For many people, this will be the first major purchase of their lives, and can have a big impact on their financial future for years to come. When getting ready for this step, you want to make sure that you do everything that you can to make sure that it goes smoothly. Here at Zimbrick Automotive, we have helped hundreds of people purchase their first vehicles, and thousands more with buying additional cars throughout their life. Check out some of the most important tips for first-time car buyers to help you get started.
Know What You are Looking For
Make a list of the various features and other things that you want in your first vehicle. This will include things like what type of vehicle (car, truck, SUV, etc), whether you want 2- or 4-wheel drive, the colors you desire, and your desired price range. Having this information ready to go will help you to narrow down your search so you can look only at vehicles that will meet your needs.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Nobody knows everything about every vehicle out there, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. Our sales team works hard to learn about every car on our lot and we would love to share this information with you to help ensure you get the proper vehicle based on your specific situation.
Consider New and Used
Most people will have a used car as their first vehicle because it is more affordable. Depending on your situation, however, a new car might be a good option as well. There are often great deals and excellent financing options that can make it a reality for you to drive something new. Don’t assume that anything is out of reach before first discussing it with an experienced sales and financing professional.
Financing is Essential
When shopping for your first car, you will undoubtedly be focused on the vehicle’s features, how it feels when you drive, and other important things. While it is not as exciting, the financing that you secure for your vehicle is almost as important as the car itself. Our finance department can help to secure you a good loan that will help to ensure your first vehicle fits perfectly in your budget.
Let Zimbrick Automotive Help You Find Your First Car Today
Zimbrick Automotive has many used cars for sale in Madison and the surrounding area. Contact our sales team to discuss your situation and get the help you need to find your first car. We will be more than happy to help you to find the perfect vehicle, set up test drives, and get your financing in order right away. Contact us to schedule an appointment or stop into our dealership today.
What to Look for in a Used Truck
When shopping for a used truck, you will find that there are a lot of different options available. Most trucks are built to be quite rugged, which means that they often last for many years. You can find great used trucks in Madison, WI that range from just a year old all the way up to a decade (or more) since they originally rolled off the line. Knowing what to look for in a used truck will help to make your shopping experience easier and a lot more fun.
Examine the Truck in Full Daylight
When buying a used truck, you want to make sure that it looks great and drives well. If it is dark out, it can be difficult to spot little dings and other issues that may be present. Make sure that you take the time to go over the truck, inside and out, in full daylight so you are aware of anything that may be wrong.
Check for Leaks
Here at Zimbrick Automotive, we inspect every vehicle before it goes on our lot to ensure there are no leaks or other problems. If you are buying from a private party or other lot, however, that may not be the case. Always look closely under the vehicle and in the engine compartment for any sign of leaks. This could be oil leaks, brake fluid, transmission fluid, engine coolant, or any number of other things.
Look for Rust or Other Damage
In Wisconsin, rust on vehicles is hard to avoid. When buying a truck you want to make sure it is going to last you for years to come. Ideally, you should look for a truck that is completely free from rust and other defects. If there is any rust on it, you need to be aware of it so it can be treated and it can be factored into the price you pay.
Know the Hauling Capacity
Not all trucks are created equally when it comes to power and hauling capacity. If you plan on using the truck to tow something, or even just to transport things in the bed of the truck, you need to know its limits. If you aren’t sure, ask our sales professionals about the towing capacity to ensure you get a truck that meets your needs.
Take a Test Drive
Whether buying a used truck or a used car, there is really no substitute for taking it out on the road for a test drive. Make sure you take the test drive on both city and highway roads to get a good feel for the car.
Find The Right Used Truck at Zimbrick Automotive Today
If you are looking for an extensive lineup of used trucks for sale, you have come to the right place. In addition, our sales and finance teams are ready to help you throughout the process. Contact us to speak with us about the type of truck you want and learn how we can help you every step of the way.
5 Car Noises You Shouldn’t Ignore
There are lots of moving parts in a car, so it’s not uncommon to hear an unexpected noise every now and then. While some sudden noises are no big deal and don’t require any immediate action, there are others that might signal something being wrong with your vehicle. If you hear any of the following five sounds, you’ll want to investigate them as soon as possible.
Hissing from the Engine Compartment
If you hear a hissing sound coming from under the hood, it’s often indicative of an engine problem, likely a hose that has come loose or become broken. Hoses within your engine are used to maintain pressure for certain components and/or circulate various fluids. If there is a leak or other problem, it could cause the engine or other essential components to suffer damage quite quickly. You’ll want to stop and have these sorts of issues checked out right away.
Squeaking or Squealing While Braking
Brake pads are actually designed to start making a high-pitched squealing noise once they’ve become heavily worn. Most of the time, hearing this noise simply means you need to have your brake pads replaced. Thankfully, our award-winning vehicle service centers in Madison, WI are easily capable of performing this maintenance for you as well as a number of other services, ranging from simple upkeep to complex repairs.
Knocking from the Engine
If you hear a loud knocking sound coming from the engine, it could indicate a very serious problem. This type of noise can be caused by a number of different issues, some of which can quickly damage the engine if not fixed soon. Take your vehicle to a service center immediately if you ever hear a knocking noise emanating from your engine.
Rattling when Driving
It’s difficult to diagnose what causes a rattling noise when driving, but in some cases rattling means big trouble so you should always have it checked out by a professional. One of the more common causes of rattling has to do with your wheel bearings. If these go out while you’re driving, you could lose control of the vehicle. Depending on the issue you’re facing, if you ignore this type of rattling it can also result in damaging other areas of the car.
Clicking while Turning
Hearing a clicking sound when trying to turn your car is commonly a sign of an issue with the CV joints. These are important components that help to transfer power to the wheels, so getting this type of noise diagnosed as soon as you can is critical for safe driving.
Keep Your Car in Good Shape with Zimbrick Automotive
If you hear any one of these sounds while driving, or just need to stop by for an automotive checkup, we’re here to help. Zimbrick Automotive will always provide you with the award-winning service we’re known for. We also feature a wide variety of service specials and coupons at all times to ensure you get low-cost car service for whatever preventative or routine maintenance you need. Contact us online with any questions or go ahead and set up an appointment today.
5 Reasons Why Used Cars are Perfect for Teen Drivers
When your teenager gets their license, they will undoubtedly be excited about all that entails. Of course, as a parent, you’ll also have to think about what type of car they’ll be driving and how to pay for it. The last thing you want is for them to constantly be taking your car out, leaving you stranded at home.
While it can be tempting to buy them a brand-new vehicle right away so they get something reliable with all the most advanced safety features, all teen drivers will benefit most from having a good used car that’ll get them where they need to go without breaking your budget. Check out the following key reasons why used cars are the perfect options for teen drivers:
More Affordable
Obviously, used cars are far more affordable than brand-new rides. With Zimbrick Automotive, you can easily check out all our used cars for sale in Madison, WI. You’ll quickly see that you can easily save tens of thousands of dollars when you shop for a used vehicle instead of buying new.
Keep Insurance Costs Down
Another money-related reason for why buying a used vehicle makes sense is that you’ll be able to save money on your car insurance. Adding a teen driver to your insurance policy is often quite expensive, but if you have to insure them on a brand-new car, the rates can be extremely high. Whether you pay cash for a used car or finance it, the insurance coverage is going to be much more affordable.
You Don’t Have to Worry About Small Cosmetic Problems
With used cars, you often don’t need to worry about small cosmetic issues on a used car like you would with something new. If your young driver accidentally bumps into a mailbox and/or gets a ding in the paintwork, it’s less of a major issue and more a matter of added character when it happens to a used car.
Still Very Safe
The advancements made in vehicle safety over the past couple decades have been nothing short of astonishing. While today’s brand-new cars may feature certain extra benefits, even used cars today are far safer than anything on the road generations ago.
Huge Range of Options Available
When shopping for something new, the number of options in your price range may be somewhat limited. When looking at used cars for sale, however, you can find many more options. This is largely because most used car dealerships feature a huge variety of used vehicles from all the world’s most trusted brands.
We’re Here for You at Zimbrick Automotive
If you’re searching for “used car dealers near me” and you’re in or near Madison, WI, look no further. Visit Zimbrick to speak with one of the members of our team and we’ll help you find the perfect used vehicle to suit your needs.
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