How to Protect Your Car During the Summer
Constant exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, and the occasional hail storm can wreak havoc on your car’s exterior. Follow these simple steps to maintain the look and quality of your car as long as possible, and make them part of your summer car care routine.
Tips to Protect Your Car From the Elements
Head for cover
The best way to protect your car from the elements is to store it in a garage. A garage provides a sanctuary away from all the elements, including sunlight, freezing temperatures, heavy rain, debris, and hail.
While a garage is ideal, not everyone has that luxury. The next best option is to seek out a suitable cover for the car to provide respite from sunlight, tree foliage, and heavy rain. If you live in an area where hail is a common nuisance, a cover specifically designed to prevent hail damage could save you hundreds of dollars over the years.
Wash, wax, repeat
Dirt, grime, and debris can wreak havoc on your paint. The easiest way to maintain your car’s exterior is to wash it using soap that is free of detergents because those can remove the protective wax layer or even cause staining to your vehicle. Always opt for the wax treatment after getting your car washed. Wax is your first line of defense when protecting your vehicle’s paint.
While it’s important to wash your car regularly, pay careful attention during the winter months as many city roads are salted to combat slick conditions. This salt can erode and rust your car’s exterior.
Avoid unnecessary exposure
When out and about, aim to park your car in a location where there is minimal opportunity for damage. Whenever possible, seek out a parking garage or covered parking deck in case the weather turns south while you’re shopping.
Seek out shade but avoid parking under trees, which could either cover your car in sap, debris, and bird droppings or cause damage from a fallen limb. If you experience a hail storm while you’re driving, seek shelter immediately. Look for a parking garage or return home if possible.
Schedule Repair Services in Madison, WI
Aim to correct any issues like broken paint, a cracked windshield, or dents as soon as possible to avoid further damage. At Zimbrick Body Shops, we offer dent removal in Madison, Wisconsin, and can help you get your car back to its former glory. We can also help with glass repair if your windshield is damaged.
For more information about how to maintain your vehicle or our auto repair services, contact our service department or visit our dealership.
4 Tips for Safe Summer Driving
There’s no better time for a road trip than summer. The weather is gorgeous, you’re more likely to be available for long stretches of time, and everyone appears to be in better spirits. But before you dash down the road on that epic trip, remember that driving in the summer requires a certain type of diligence, both on the road and off.
There are more drivers on the road, more chances to get distracted, and certain types of maintenance that are necessary to guarantee your safety. With so much to consider, our team at Zimbrick Body Shop decided to put together a small guide of things to keep in mind when you’re on the road this summer.
Safe Driving Tips For the Summer
Get your car serviced
Make sure you’ve gotten car vehicle tuned-up, had its oil changed, its tires rotated, and its battery checked. Each of these can go a long way to preventing breakdowns on longer road trips. If you’ve gotten your vehicle serviced according to its manufacturer’s specs, then it should be good to go.
Go over your vehicle’s more definitive safety checklist — things like checking tire pressure, adjusting coolant levels, topping off fluid levels like brake fluid and power steering, and replacing worn down belts and hoses.
Watch out for other drivers
Since school is out of session, summer is the time of year when the most teens are on the road. Unfortunately, this can also become a recipe for more accidents. Their inexperience behind the wheel can lead to precarious, and sometimes dangerous, situations.
Summer also means more people will be on vacation. This can lead to roads becoming congested with travelers who are unfamiliar with their surroundings, which can result in unpredictable and erratic driving.
Keep yourself and your passengers hydrated
Long drives in the summer heat can lead to you and your passengers becoming dehydrated. Dehydration can result in you making impaired or impulsive decisions behind the wheel, which can result in an accident. If your passengers are also dehydrated for an extended period of time, it can make your road trip far less enjoyable. To combat this, make sure to keep two bottles of water handy for each person in the car.
Be extra cautious when towing large loads
Summer is a perfect time to go camping, take a day trip to the beach, or go fishing. With that said, many outdoor summer activities require people to tow large items, such as trailers or boats. If this applies to you, make sure to adjust what your concept of appropriate speed is.
You’ll also want to continuously check your mirrors for other vehicles while you’re in transit. Remember that your tires must be in pristine condition to effectively haul heavier loads. Be sure to check your tires’ pressure, as well as their rubber condition, before hauling anything.
Have a Safe Summer in Madison, WI
If something unforeseen should happen, schedule collision repair at Zimbrick Body Shops in Madison, Wisconsin. Our specialists will have your back all summer long.
5 Ways to Take Care of Your Car’s Paint Job
Nothing sparks confidence in a driver like a sparkling paint job on the body of the car. But in order for your car to retain its shine long after it leaves the car paint shop, it must be taken care of just like the rest of the vehicle.
Below are 5 ways to take care of your car’s paint job to keep your ride looking shiny and new.
Turn Your Driveway Into a Car Paint Shop
Follow these tips and your car will stay looking new for miles down the road.
1. Wash regularly
Regularly washing your car is perhaps the best way to protect the paint job. Use a high-quality automotive soap and apply it with a foam sponge using straight lines, not circular motions. Rinse with clean water.
Properly drying your car after a wash is vital to taking care of the paint job. Allowing the car to air dry leaves behind minerals from the water, which can be harmful to the paint. Dry your car with a microfiber towel. Bathroom towels, paper towels, and rags can leave behind tiny scratches that over time cause paint to erode.
2. Wax
Wax provides a protective seal on top of the paint that guards against dirt, dust, pollution, water, and other harmful substances. Wax can also cover up small scratches and other minor blemishes.
Wax your car every few months using the recommended techniques.
3. Keep it out of the sun
Ultraviolet rays from the sun are not only dangerous for your skin, but also for your car’s paint job. Sunlight can oxidize and fade the paint on your car, making it look much older than it actually is.
Whenever possible, park your car in the shade or under a covered space. Doing so will add years to the life of your paint job.
4. Use synthetic coating
Synthetic coating, or paint sealant, is an alternative to wax that bonds and permeates to the pores of your car’s paint to form a protective seal. Synthetic coating lasts longer than wax and can be applied just as easily.
5. Get help from a car paint shop
Go the extra mile for the protection of your car’s exterior by leaning on the professionals at the Zimbrick body shop. Our auto body services take care of the dings, dents, and other cosmetic damage to restore your car back to its original look. We can even give your car a whole new custom paint job. Schedule an appointment at your nearest Zimbrick body shop location and put the sparkle back in your ride.
What’s the Right Way to Wash Your Car?
Spring is a particularly taxing time for your car’s appearance. Between rainwater stains, pollen, and grit leftover from winter, there are plenty of factors standing in the way of your vehicle’s perfect shine. Luckily, car washes provide an easy fix. But there’s also a science to them.
Let’s break it down below.
5 Tips for Washing Your Car
Taking your car to a drive-thru washer can be risky. Here’s how you can do it yourself.
Let the car cool down before you begin.
Washing your car after you’ve been driving it all day is ill-advised. So is hitting it with the soap after it’s been exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time. Hot surfaces cause sudsy water to dry quickly and leave deposits. For a stain-free shine, it’s best to wash your car while it’s cool to the touch.
Rinse well before you start.
It might be tempting to jump right into the bucket, but you’ll want to start with a water-only rinse. Loose dirt and debris accumulate on your car, and if you start sponging the body before they’re properly removed, you could run the risk of scratching your paint job.
Always use a car-specific cleaner.
You’ll see all sorts of random recommendations on do-it-yourself blogs, but for your vehicle, a car-specific cleaner is the only smart move. Household cleaners like hand soap and dishwashing detergent aren’t mild enough for your car’s body, and if you’re not careful, they could strip the finish.
Use a towel or non-abrasive sponge.
You want to remove dirt and grime from your car, not its vibrant paint. Washing section by section in a lengthwise motion with a soft sponge or towel reduces the likelihood of unsightly scratches.
Hand-dry when finished.
Many drivers assume that a quick spin around the block will dry their car more quickly after a wash. Unfortunately, all this does is create unwanted watermarks. For the same reason, air-drying is not advised. Hand-drying your car with a chamois or terry towel is the only way to preserve its new shine.
See How Zimbrick Can Help
Of course, if you have cosmetic damage that a car wash won’t solve, schedule an appointment at Zimbrick Body Shops. We handle everything from paintless dent removal to glass and windshield repair at our collision centers in the Madison, Wisconsin, area.
3 Important Steps To Take After a Car Accident
We’ve all been there. One moment, you’re going about your day, and the next, someone has bumped into your fender. Car accidents can be frustrating because they take us out of our routine, but they need to be handled properly in order to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Read on to see the simple steps you can take to make sure you’re prepared should you get into an accident.
What to Do After a Car Accident
Don’t panic
While your first thought might be to stress out about the damage or get angry at the other driver, it’s important to make sure you keep a level head and move your car away from traffic if possible.
If all vehicles in the accident can make it to a side street or the side of the road, turn them off and turn on the hazard lights. If you can, surround the vehicles with cones or warning triangles, that can help other drivers avoid the area.
Think safe
Now that you’re out of harm’s way, it’s important to check yourself and your passengers for injuries. These can be scrapes, cuts, sores, or even burns. You should also check with those in other vehicles involved if possible. If someone is seriously hurt, call an ambulance right away.
Once everyone has been examined, notify the police. Even if the accident was minor, a police report can help insurance companies when it comes to filing claims.
Jot down information
At this point, you’ll need to start collecting information for insurance purposes. You’ll need names and contact information from the other driver(s), as well as their license number(s) and insurance information.
It’s helpful to also write down the scene of the accident and get the names and numbers of any potential witnesses. When the police show up, get the officer’s name and badge number as well.
Now you should be ready to file a claim, which should be done as soon as possible. Call your insurance company and let them walk you through the process, providing whatever information you’ve gained when asked. Many companies even allow you to file a claim using an app on your phone.
Had an Accident? Zimbrick Body Shops Can Help
At Zimbrick Body Shops, we offer towing services and collision repair in Madison, Wisconsin. If you need your vehicle repaired after an accident, give us a call today.
What Is a Low-Impact Collision?
Not all traffic accidents happen at high speeds. In fact, three-quarters of all fatal accidents are not speed-related. These accidents that occur at low speeds are typically described as “low impact collisions.”
A low impact collision is when a car collides with another car or an object at a low speed, typically under 15 mph. A low impact collision can be thought of as a minor fender bender. Some examples of low impact collisions include:
- Bumping the car in front of you during stop-and-go traffic.
- Side-swiping a parked vehicle, guard rail, or another object.
- Backing up into a car while leaving a parking spot.
Common Causes of Low Impact Collisions
Low-impact collisions can occur for any number of reasons, including:
- Distracted driving.
- Poor visibility.
- “Tailgating,” or following too closely behind a car.
- Laziness, such as failing to check a blind spot before changing lanes.
- Miscommunication, such as two cars both thinking they have the right of way at a stop sign or in a crowded parking lot.
- Wet or slippery driving conditions.
Consequences of Low Impact Collisions
Just because an accident occurs at small speed doesn’t mean it can’t come with big consequences.
Whiplash and neck injuries are common in low impact collisions because the head and neck move quicker than the cars colliding. A collision happening at 8 mph produces two G’s of force on the cars involved but 5 G’s of force on the neck.
Sometimes people are in awkward and vulnerable positions when a low-impact collision occurs. An example would be a driver who has their body turned to look out the rear window while backing out of a parking spot. If a collision occurs, this person is at an increased risk of injury due to the positioning of their body at the point of impact.
The consequences of low-impact collisions can be just as bad on your car itself. It doesn’t take much force for a vehicle to suffer significant damage to the body, bumpers, lights, and windows. And sometimes the body damage is only masking underlying structural damage or broken parts that can make driving unsafe.
Where to Repair in Madison, WI
If you’re in need of collision repair, the Zimbrick Body Shop in Madison, WI, has you covered. Read about our organized and efficient repair process that can have your car in and out and back on the road in no time.
We’ve all been there: You’re driving down the road when you hear a tiny stone hit your windshield. It seems like it’s nothing at first, but over time the tiny chip turns into a growing crack. Before the crack expands even more — possibly causing the windshield to break completely — it’s important to get the glass repaired or replaced.
When you need auto glass service, you can rely on Zimbrick Body Shops to get the job done.
Why is the Glass So Important to My Vehicle?
From the windshield to the rear glass and every side window in between, the glass components of your car contribute to its structural integrity. The glass provides visibility to the vehicles around you, while also protecting you from the wind, insects, and the elements.
There are several ways that the glass on your vehicle becomes chipped, cracked, or broken, including errant rocks on the highway, bad weather, and more.
What Auto Glass Services Does Zimbrick Offer?
At the Zimbrick Body Shops, we offer a variety of auto glass services to get your car back on the road. Our technicians are certified to use the training and parts needed to perform everything from a small chip fix to a complete windshield repair.
We know how important your vehicle is to your life, from running errands to driving the kids to school. That’s why we take the utmost care in ensuring each repair or replacement is done right the first time.
Our glass services include:
- Rock chip repair
- Front windshield replacement
- Rearview mirror replacement
- Door/quarter glass replacement
- Back glass replacement
We’re also happy to help with your glass insurance claim so that you can rest easy knowing the whole job will be taken care of. Whether you’re just seeking a minor auto glass repair, or it’s part of a larger collision repair project, Zimbrick Body Shops are ready to handle your job.
Make an Appointment Today in the Madison, WI, Area
Does your car need auto glass service and repair? Schedule an appointment with our certified technicians today. Call us at (608) 441-3475 with any questions about the collision repair process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Collision Repair
Dealing with injuries, insurance, and transportation in the aftermath of a collision can be stressful. That’s why at Zimbrick Body Shops in Madison, Wisconsin, we want to help make the collision repair process as smooth as possible.
If you have any questions regarding your car, check out some of the most frequently asked questions about collision repair below. Don’t see your question? Contact the shop nearest you today.
Common Collision Repair FAQs
Can I choose which shop repairs my vehicle?
Yes. Your insurance company may recommend certain shops, but as the owner of the car, you have the right to decide where, when, and how your vehicle is repaired.
Do I need to get more than one estimate?
No. You only need one estimate of damage report from the repair facility of your choice. However, the insurance company may want to have their claims adjuster inspect the damage prior to repair. This is done to make sure everything is accurate and fair.
Tip: If your vehicle is not safe to drive, you can have it towed to the repair shop of your choice. When you notify your insurance company about the accident, tell them the vehicle is not drivable and where it is located so that it may be inspected.
Who is responsible for paying the collision repair bill?
You are. The vehicle owner must arrange for payment of the repair bill. Insurance policies state that the insurer will reimburse you for the cost of repairs, depending on your deductible situation. You can instruct your insurance company to pay the repair shop directly.
How long will the repairs take?
The length of time it takes to repair your vehicle depends on the extent of the damage. Once the repair estimate is made, your advisor can give you an estimated time of completion. A more accurate date can be given once the vehicle has been disassembled and the repair plan completed.
Do I get a loaner car?
We make every attempt to help you with your alternative transportation needs. Your advisor can discuss those options once we have completed a repair plan. If you have rental coverage on your insurance policy or are a third party claimant, we can help secure a rental replacement vehicle for you.
Contact Us Today in Madison, WI
Whether you were just in a collision or your car is currently being repaired, give us a call if you have any questions. The technicians at Zimbrick Body Shops want you to feel confident and comfortable with every repair being made. Contact us for more information about our auto body repair services or to schedule an appointment today.
A Step by Step Guide to Our Repair Process
If you have been involved in a collision, turn to the Zimbrick Body Shops to restore your vehicle to its former glory. Continue reading to learn about our auto body repair process.
Walking Through the Repair Process at Zimbrick
Preliminary Estimate and Approval
Our technicians perform a visual inspection of the damage, while we also gather relevant customer and vehicle information. Once our findings are entered into a computer, a preliminary cost estimate is produced.
After the preliminary estimate is completed and we determine that your vehicle can be repaired, we’ll move forward with your authorization. Your insurer may also need to agree to the estimate.
Schedule the Repair
Based on the preliminary estimate, an initial parts order is placed while we schedule an appointment for the work to be made.
Break It Down
Our repair technicians will disassemble the areas where your vehicle needs work. At this time, they will document any previously undiscovered damage and add it to the preliminary estimate. We will contact you, and your insurance provider if needed, to approve the new repairs.
Structural and Body Repairs
Using OEM-approved tools and equipment, our technicians will measure and return your vehicle to the manufacturer-specified dimensions. 70% of vehicles suffering collision damage show some signs of structural misalignment, which is why diagnosing and repairing the structure is vital to ensuring safety.
Depending on the extent of the damage to the body of your car, truck, or SUV, the body repair step is when we straighten or replace exterior panels. Each panel is carefully aligned and fitted to ensure everything looks just right.
Paint
Getting your vehicle to look just right is crucial to the repair process. Our technicians carefully prep, prime, and seal each panel before applying the eco-friendly waterborne color and polyurethane clear coat. We precisely mix each color in order to deliver a picture-perfect match.
Reassembly
During the reassembly phase, everything is inspected and adjusted, so your vehicle is returned to its pre-accident condition.
Among the services conducted during the reassembly phase include:
- Installation of lights, moldings, trim, and hardware
- Electrical and mechanical systems checks
- Wheel alignments
- Air conditioning recharges
- Road test
Detailing
Every vehicle we service receives a wash, vacuum, paint inspection, and a polish if necessary.
Delivery
When you return to one of our Zimbrick Body Shops to pick up your vehicle, we’ll sit down and explain the bill, show the completion of the repair work, and collect payment.
Turn to the Zimbrick Body Shops for Auto Body Repair Near Madison, WI
With 4 locations, there is a Zimbrick Body Shop nearby to handle your collision repair. Contact us today to schedule service.
Life is full of unpredictable moments. When an accident or collision leaves your vehicle in need of serious repairs, you need someone you can trust.
At Zimbrick Body Shops, we’re proud to be there for you. The certified technicians and courteous staff members at any one of our four body shops around Madison, Wisconsin, work to make your experience easy and stress-free. Our technicians are equipped with the tools and expertise to complete any and all vehicle restorations and repairs.
Collision and Glass Repair Services at Zimbrick Body Shops
Collision Repairs and Restorations
In the event that an accident leaves your vehicle severely damaged, we offer the certified collision repair services to get your car, truck, or SUV looking as good as new. From bumper-to-bumper accidents to full-on collisions, our experts can handle a range of car accident repairs.
We begin the process by inspecting your vehicle and proposing a preliminary repair estimate. After finalizing the details and scheduling an appointment, we’ll order the necessary parts to restore your car. Our technicians will disassemble your car and perform the structural and body repairs to get your car back to its original condition. We’ll then paint and detail your vehicle before sending you back out on the road.
Windshield and Glass
Whether a small pebble left a crack or a fallen tree limb completely destroyed your windshield, you’re going to need the specialized services to fix or replace the glass. Our technicians can perform the auto glass replacement services to fix your front or rear windshield, rearview mirrors, and door windows. Even the most minor chips can lead to serious damages, so it’s important to schedule your appointment to get the glass fixed.
Dings and Dents
Though dents can result from a range of scenarios, they all have something in common: they’re aesthetically displeasing and often unpredictable. To remove dents large and small from the body of your vehicle, don’t trust DIY tips or videos online. Let the experts at our body shops get the job done. After an appointment for car dent removal service, your car will be looking smooth and dent-free.
Scuffs and Scratches
Like dents, paint chips and other structural damages can leave your car looking rough around the edges. Our technicians can perform the car painting services to fix the scuffs and get your vehicle looking brand new.
Seek Vehicle Repair Services in Madison, WI
For vehicle accidents big and small, the technicians at Zimbrick Body Shops are here to help. Find your nearest Zimbrick Body Shop location to schedule an appointment today.
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