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Ohio's Most Haunted Roads: 5 Spooky Drives For October (And The Cars To Get You There Safely)

  • Writer: Harry Tepe
    Harry Tepe
  • Sep 30
  • 18 min read
Curved road with vibrant autumn foliage on either side, set against distant mountains and a partly cloudy sky, creating a serene scene.

Finding safe and reliable cars for haunted road trips in Ohio can be tough, especially during October events. Haunted Ohio Roads like Dead Man’s Curve and Fairview Road draw thrill-seekers each fall with chilling stories and local folklore.


This guide shares the top five spooky scenic drives, plus tips on choosing safe used cars Midwest families trust. Get ready to discover fun routes and safety advice that will make your next adventure unforgettable.


Key Takeaways

  • Ohio boasts over 25 atmospheric spots of intrigue. These include lanes, lodgings, and recreational spaces that individuals frequent for ghost tours each autumn.

  • The quintet of most ghostly lanes in Ohio comprises Dead Man’s Curve in Cleveland, Route 93 through the Hanging Rock Iron Region, Gore Orphanage Road near Vermilion, Walhalla Road in Columbus, and Fairview Road in Adams County. All possess their unique spectral tales.

  • Cautious navigation is crucial on these eerie voyages. SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V, and all-wheel drive vehicles, are applauded for their protective attributes.

  • Tom Tepe Autocenter presents a vast selection of cars apt for scenic road trips. They offer both fresh and pre-owned alternatives, encompassing SUVs with high safety evaluations.

  • Strategically preparing your expedition can facilitate a secure and enjoyable experience. This implies inspecting your vehicle before departure, being aware of your destination, and keeping emergency equipment at the ready.


Why Ohio is Perfect for Haunted Road Trips

After the excitement of exploring haunted roads grabs your attention, Ohio sets the stage for one-of-a-kind ghost tours. The state holds over 25 must-see eerie locations, perfect for anyone who loves a scare.


Deep fog rolls through old tunnels in southeast Ohio. Haunted hotels and spooky state parks draw crowds from Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and even Aurora, Indiana. Ohio’s haunted attractions like the Ohio State Reformatory and Franklin Castle, invite thrill-seekers every fall.


Maps guide visitors straight to spots such as burial mounds tied to the Hopewell culture and mysterious towns along the Ohio River. Families can join haunted house events, pumpkin mazes, and historic legend tours.


Haunted road trips uncover places tied to the Hopewell people, Adena culture, and the legendary Mothman from the Battle of Point Pleasant. Each stop not only chills the spine but also brings travelers to charming towns close to Harrison, Ohio, Marietta, and Milan, Indiana.

Ohio offers safe, well-marked routes and plenty of family-friendly haunted attractions for your next October adventure.


Top 5 Haunted Roads in Ohio

Ohio holds many eerie roads, each with chilling stories and legends tied to its past. Our state’s dark highways connect local history, haunted attractions, and famous ghost tales like Mothman and the Hopewell culture—perfect for thrill seekers this October.


Dead Man’s Curve, Cleveland

Dead Man’s Curve sits on Interstate 90 near downtown Cleveland by Burke Lakefront Airport. Drivers here face a sharp 90-degree turn that has caused many wrecks and semi-truck rollovers.


This spot ranks as the third-most haunted road in the United States, according to SIXT. The legend of a faceless hitchhiker keeps haunting stories alive and draws thrill-seekers to this curve every fall.


It has grabbed the attention of ghost tour fans, with 4.3 million views on TikTok. Many people looking for creepy places to visit in Ohio end up here, hoping to spot something spooky.

For families planning haunted road trips in the Midwest, our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter stresses the need for safe, reliable pre-owned vehicles with strong structural integrity on risky roads like Dead Man’s Curve.


“Our top priority is making sure you and your family arrive safely, no matter how haunted the drive.”

A highway with trucks passes through a dry, hilly landscape. Sparse greenery and rugged terrain surround the road, creating a desolate mood.

Route 93 and the Ghosts of the Hanging Rock Iron Region

Route 93 stretches 234 miles from Ironton to Akron. This long highway cuts through the old Hanging Rock Iron Region, where iron and coal once ruled. Towns like Logan and Zanesville sit along this drive, each with its own local diners and historic stops.


The Buckeye Furnace State Memorial stands as a reminder of the region’s iron age. You can still see furnace ruins near the road.


People talk about ghostly shadows near the Upstream Rock Run Reclamation Site and the Straitsville Mine Fire. Stories link these spirits to accidents from the iron industry’s past.


Long nights on Route 93 bring tales of haunted mines and chilling sights in the fog. Many Ohio haunted attractions and ghost tours pass through these hills every October. Local legends add to the spooky mood for those who crave haunted road trips across the Midwest.


Gore Orphanage Road, Vermilion

Moving north from the haunted Hanging Rock Iron Region, Gore Orphanage Road in Amherst, near Vermilion and Lorain County, stands as one of Ohio’s most chilling roads. Stories tell of Old Man Gore, who trapped children by nailing doors shut before setting the Light of Hope Orphanage on fire.


Over 100 children faced harsh conditions here, from forced labor to starvation. In 1909, an underground railroad helped many escape.


In 1910, a massive explosion at the orphanage ignited rumors about a cover-up hiding child casualties. Drivers today often claim to hear a girl’s voice or see tiny handprints on their car windows.


Families eager for safe haunted road trips should trust their journey to a reliable SUV or all-wheel drive from Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country. Exploring spots like Gore Orphanage Road lets you experience true ghost tours in Ohio while traveling safely with your family.

Snowy road leads to a metal bridge flanked by bare trees. Yellow and black striped signs stand on either side. Cloudy sky above.

Walhalla Road, Columbus

Walhalla Road sits in Clintonville, Ohio. Locals call it “The Gates of Hell” at night. This winding road once hid enslaved people fleeing to freedom in the 1800s near the Hopewell Culture National Historic Park and Marietta, OH.


The Mooney Mansion stands out here, built in 1913. Stories say a murder-suicide happened inside during the 1950s.


Several visitors report seeing blue lights flash from its windows. At the bridge nearby, some have seen strange reflections or felt eyes watching them pass by. Groups like The Ghost Hunting Gays of Ohio search for spirits along this haunted route each fall as part of their Halloween weekend Midwest events.


Group leader Nick Post says he refuses to walk Walhalla Road alone after dark due to its eerie feel.


A reliable SUV with all-wheel drive gives families confidence on narrow roads like Walhalla’s hills, especially if you come from Kentucky or Indiana for an October haunt tour around Columbus or Milan.


Safe vehicles help keep your haunted road trip experience focused on fun instead of worry—my team at Tom Tepe Autocenter can help find the right fit before your next adventure down this spooky stretch.


Fairview Road and the Haunted Train Car

Next, the trip leaves Walhalla Road in Columbus and moves south to Adams County. Fairview Road waits in a quiet part of northern Adams County, Ohio. Deep in the woods, an old train car draws curious travelers.


Stories talk about strange sounds and shadows near the tracks, especially during October.

This train car has sparked real buzz on local social media, including the “Adams County, Ohio Rural Living” group. Admin Chris Fogle shared a post that got 81 reactions, 25 comments, and 5 shares.


Michael Day wanted to learn more about its backstory. Jane Nichols Shupert said the train car looked different from what she imagined. Linda Johnson confirmed that the train car sits right on Fairview Road.


Haunted road trips in the Midwest often include odd places like this. Many families seek safe vehicles from Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country before exploring these rural legends.


Red caboose train car with graffiti sits in overgrown vegetation at night. Dark sky in the background gives a mysterious, abandoned feel.

The Cars to Get You There Safely

My team at Tom Tepe Autocenter knows safety is key for haunted road trips in the Midwest. We help families choose dependable vehicles that fit spooky rural routes and city streets from Harrison, Ohio, to Aurora, Indiana, and beyond.


Reliable SUVs for Long Drives

Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter acknowledges that extensive drives call for trustworthy SUVs. We present to you a collection of highly regarded models, perfect for spirited road trips across the Midwest or escapades to Harrison, Ohio, and beyond.


  1. Toyota RAV4 garners an impressive J.D. Power Reliability Score of 86/100. This SUV meets the mark for family excursions with its spacious interior.

  2. Honda CR-V appeals to drivers for its comfort over extended distances. Its headrests are enjoyed more than those in some recent RAV4 models.

  3. Hyundai Tucson provides a smooth journey and fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for picturesque drives around locales like Aurora, Indiana.

  4. Mazda CX-5 is known for its sleek design and responsive handling on rural roads heading to destinations such as Milan, Indiana.

  5. Subaru Outback is lauded for its load capacity and reliability when embarking on less-traveled routes or going to ghostly events in the Midwest.

  6. Honda Passport delivers plenty of space and sturdy performance for families planning to delve into areas recognized for historical landmarks or spooky legends.

  7. Honda Pilot is an additional formidable choice with three rows of seats, ensuring everyone has abundant room for trips exploring haunted houses or the Mothman festival realms.

  8. Chevy presents an SUV series that includes Trax, Trailblazer, Traverse, Tahoe, and Suburban - each differing in dimension but consistent in quality and dependability for any voyage, be it towards Silver Bridge or Roscoe Village.


All these SUVs earn high U.S. News Value Scores up to 9.3/10, highlighting their blend of quality and value that we take pride in providing at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country. Our team is ready to assist you through our extensive range of reliable vehicles tailored for your thrilling road trip requirements this October or any time you're yearning for adventure with assurance of peace of mind.


Fuel-Efficient Sedans for Scenic Routes

Tom Tepe Autocenter possesses an assortment of fuel-efficient sedans that are splendid for Ohio road trips. Our cars promise excellent gas mileage, amplifying the joy and affordability of scenic drives through the Midwest.


  • Our dealership showcases sedans tailored for extended journeys. These vehicles are handpicked due to their prowess in delivering outstanding gas mileage. As such, you can traverse haunting paths like Dead Man’s Curve or the enigmatic routes around Harrison, Ohio, without concern for frequent refueling stops.

  • We underscore economical sedans as part of our October deals. This collection enables families to economize not just on the acquisition cost but also on fuel expenses during their road trips.

  • For those in search of variety, we flaunt a diversity of sedans suitable for picturesque routes. Whether you're navigating through the undulating landscape of Aurora, Indiana or discovering the historical sites in Milan, Indiana, a sedan from our dealership is prepared to accommodate your needs.

  • Patrons have the opportunity to try out any sedan from our stash to confirm it lives up to their standards for comfort and efficiency. Journeying to haunted occurrences or embarking on a picturesque drive through the Midwest becomes considerably safer and cozier with an apt vehicle.

  • Our assortment includes sedans straight from the manufacturer as well as pre-existing ones. This varied range ensures every voyager discovers a vehicle that aligns with their financial plan and trip specifications flawlessly, whether they're setting course for Malabar Farms or organizing a hair-raising evening at a haunted event.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, our goal is to render each road trip, notably those to Ohio's haunted paths, secure, economical, and unforgettable with our collection of fuel-sparing sedans.


All-Wheel Drive Vehicles for Rural Roads

All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are key for safe travel on Ohio's rural haunted roads. They provide better traction in dark, winding conditions often met during haunted road trips.


  1. AWD cars improve safety on spooky drives like Dead Man’s Curve by delivering power to all four wheels. This helps prevent slipping on loose gravel or wet leaves.

  2. Our dealership offers a variety of AWD vehicles perfect for navigating areas known for poor visibility and hazardous conditions, including the Ghosts of the Hanging Rock Iron Region.

  3. Vehicles with AWD capabilities are essential when exploring roads like Gore Orphanage Road, where unexpected fog can drastically reduce visibility.

  4. For those visiting Walhalla Road in Columbus, an AWD vehicle ensures stable handling through its steep turns and sudden dips.

  5. Fairview Road's haunted train car tales require a reliable AWD to handle the rural route's challenging terrains efficiently.

  6. Our selection includes models that suit every family's needs, whether looking for fuel efficiency or spacious interiors for comfortable long drives through Midwest haunted locales.

  7. We prioritize safety and stability in all our AWD options, ensuring you have a secure journey exploring Ohio's mysterious roads.


Our team is ready to match you with an AWD vehicle that meets your haunted road trip needs while ensuring top-notch safety and comfort for your family.


Pre-Owned Options for Budget-Conscious Shoppers

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we understand the need for safe, budget-friendly vehicles for family road trips. With our October "frighteningly good" deals on pre-owned vehicles, finding a reliable car has never been easier. Here's what makes our selection ideal for those looking to explore haunted Midwest roads safely:

  1. Every vehicle undergoes a thorough inspection; this means you can trust your car on long drives.

  2. Our inventory covers various price points, making it easy to find something within your budget.

  3. Special October discounts ensure these deals won't last long, just like ghosts that vanish.

  4. Cars come with a CarFax report, giving you a clear history of the vehicle's past.

  5. Selection includes sedans for fuel efficiency and SUVs for their reliability and space.

  6. We provide affordable financing options to help manage costs better.

  7. Customer service is our top priority; we guide you through each step of the purchase.


Choosing a pre-owned vehicle from Tom Tepe Autocenter means you get reliability without breaking the bank.


Blue SUV parked by ocean on a clear day, with waves and rocks in the background. The vehicle has a sleek design and "Equinox" text visible.

Benefits of Choosing Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, my team offers a wide range of reliable vehicles that families can trust for haunted road trips in the Midwest. Our staff uses years of hands-on experience to match you with a safe ride, whether you're exploring Dead Man’s Curve or visiting sites from Ohio history like Fort Harmar and Mound Cemetery.


Wide Selection of Reliable Vehicles

Shoppers can find over 200 dependable vehicles across three locations. The inventory fits many needs, from family trips to the haunted roads of Ohio and Indiana, like Route 93 or Dead Man’s Curve in Cleveland.


Chevy models such as Silverado 1500 and Equinox keep drivers safe on rural paths near Gore Orphanage Road or Fairview Road. Ford, Nissan, Toyota, and Ram trucks are ideal for heavy-duty jobs or hauling gear on Midwest haunted road trips.


Options include small crossovers for city driving in Columbus and large SUVs made for tough terrain around Milan or Harrison. Many customers choose budget cars that work well for long drives to sites like Mound Cemetery or Fort Harmar.


Each vehicle gets selected by our experienced team to deliver dependability and value for the families we serve throughout Ohio’s historic routes and spooky October drives.


Expert Guidance for Your Haunted Road Trip Needs

Tom Tepe Autocenter staff offer expert advice to help families find the right vehicle for haunted road trips in Ohio. Our team has deep knowledge about safe and reliable transportation for spooky drives through places like Dead Man's Curve and Walhalla Road.


We recommend vehicles that handle long miles, winding roads, and sudden rural stops. Our advisors suggest options like fuel-saving sedans for scenic routes, or all-wheel drive for rural and gravel roads near sites such as the Copus Massacre area or near the Harmar Historic District.


We welcome customers from Cincinnati, Lawrenceburg, and Indianapolis, and our dealership responds quickly to your questions. Our specialists guide you through every step, from choosing a vehicle for adventures near haunted spots like Buxton Inn or the historic Route 93 to explaining ownership costs.


Trust our dedicated Ohio team to keep your family safe and comfortable on each haunted road trip.


We never want you to worry about the journey, only to enjoy the spooky sites along the Ohio rivers, says Harry Tepe.


Find out more about our wide selection of reliable cars and how we help match the right one to your next adventure.

Black pickup truck parked on mountain meadow with wildflowers; rugged terrain and cloudy sky in background. Chevrolet logo visible.

Affordable Financing Options

Our finance department offers simple ways to pay for a safe family car. Apply online for auto financing with fast approval. Our team helps drivers get options for all vehicles, including budget-friendly pre-owned cars.


Use our payment calculator on the website to plan your monthly costs and see what fits your needs.


We create easy deals during October with special promotions, perfect for haunted road trips across Ohio’s spookiest roads like Dead Man’s Curve or Gore Orphanage Road. Get expert support about down payments and trade-ins from our staff at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.


All finance offers require approved credit and only apply to qualified customers seeking dependable vehicles in the Midwest region this Halloween season.


Dedicated Customer Service

Staff at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country put families first. The team answers questions fast and treats every shopper with respect. Trained experts guide each person in choosing the safest SUV or sedan for a haunted road trip through Ohio’s backroads, like Dead Man's Curve or Walhalla Road.


Every customer gets help before, during, and after they pick up their vehicle.


Service includes oil changes, tire checks, repairs, and big fixes on models such as the Equinox, Tahoe, and Silverado 1500. No high-pressure tactics are used; shoppers get time to decide what fits best for trips through music hall country or visits along routes tied to legends like John Chapman and Rufus Putnam.


Staff pride themselves on community support and keeping your vehicle ready for any adventure.


Check out which vehicles are available now that are ideal for exploring Ohio’s most haunted roads.


Exploring Tom Tepe Autocenter's Vehicle Inventory

Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country stocks a wide range of family-friendly vehicles, perfect for your haunted road trips in the Midwest—discover your next ride today.


New Inventory Selection for Haunted Road Trips

Planning a haunted road trip in Ohio requires a safe and resilient automobile. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we present top-of-the-line Chevrolet models that are just right for your mystical journey.

  1. Browse our collection of current model SUVs and trucks, tailored for diverse travel requirements. These automobiles perform exceptionally on country roads leading to haunting destinations like Dead Man’s Curve or Gore Orphanage Road.

  2. Our vehicle range is frequently refreshed to encompass the most recent models equipped with cutting-edge safety enhancements. This guarantees access to the most favorable options for prolonged drives.

  3. Our vehicles are equipped with facilities that enrich your driving experience, such as navigation systems to steer you to haunted destinations on your Ohio road trip.

  4. Feel free to take any vehicle at our dealership out for a trial run to establish its suitability for your uncanny expedition.

  5. For urgent travel plans, pick from the readily available vehicles for expedited delivery.

  6. Utilize the sorting options on our webpage to discover automobiles as per features and cost that align with your financial plan and requirements.


Subsequently, uncover how opting for Tom Tepe Autocenter boosts your haunted road trip experience.


Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles for Every Traveler

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we understand the need for a safe family vehicle. Our pre-owned selection offers something for everyone, ensuring reliability and affordability.


  • Our inventory includes brands like Chevrolet, Ford, Jeep, Nissan, and GMC. These brands are known for their durability and performance.

  • Every vehicle undergoes thorough inspections to ensure safety and reliability. We check everything from brakes to headlights.

  • A CarFax report backs each pre-owned vehicle. This report gives you the vehicle's history, including past owners and service records.

  • Shoppers can filter vehicles by mileage, brand, price, and more. This makes finding the perfect car simpler.

  • We offer financing assistance for all pre-owned vehicle purchases. Our team works with you to find a payment plan that fits your budget.

  • Our inventory is updated regularly with fresh options. This means more choices for our customers every time they visit.

  • Customers can test drive any pre-owned vehicle at our locations. Test drives help you feel confident in your choice.

  • We serve many counties in Indiana and Ohio. No matter where you are in these areas, we're ready to help.


Choosing a pre-owned vehicle from Tom Tepe Autocenter means choosing peace of mind on your next road trip or daily commute.


Financing Your Haunted Road Trip Vehicle

Our team makes it simple to apply for auto loans and explore ways to lower your monthly payments—discover more about how Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country can help you drive off ready for haunted road trips this October.


Easy Application Process

Getting the right vehicle for your haunted road trips in the Midwest is important. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we make applying for financing straightforward and quick. Here’s how:

  1. Visit our website to initiate your application.

  2. Populate the form with basic information about you.

  3. Utilize our payment calculators to view monthly expenses.

  4. You have the option to pre-qualify prior to your visit.

  5. Our website is equipped to assist with credit inquiries.

  6. We offer financing for both pre-owned and recently manufactured vehicles.


Our finance team expedites approvals. They are also present to guide you through every step.


The following section will discuss Valuable Trade-In Options.


Valuable Trade-In Options

After exploring easy application processes, it's time to look at valuable trade-in options. Tom Tepe Autocenter offers great deals for trading in your old vehicle.


  • At our dealership, you can get instant appraisals online or in person. This makes the process fast and simple.

  • We use market data and inspect your vehicle's condition to find its value. This ensures a fair price for your trade-in.

  • You can trade in many types of vehicles at Tom Tepe Autocenter. We accept various makes and models.

  • Our process is clear and quick. You won't have to wait long to know your vehicle's trade-in value.

  • You have options with your trade-in value at our dealership. Use it as a down payment or take cash.

  • We offer tips on how to increase your trade-in offer. Small improvements can make a big difference.

  • Our wide range of inventory means you can easily find a safer family vehicle for haunted road trips.


Choosing Tom Tepe Autocenter gives you access to these valuable trade-in perks, helping you move into a reliable vehicle quickly and without hassle.


Tips for a Safe and Spooky Road Trip

Prepare your haunted road trip with a clear map, safety gear, and a well-checked SUV or all-wheel drive from Tom Tepe Autocenter for peace of mind—keep reading to see how you can make your adventure both thrilling and secure!


Plan Your Route and Stops Ahead

Research each haunted stop before you go. Find haunted spots like the Golden Lamb, Historic Buxton Inn, and Sandusky County Historic Jail. Map out your haunted road trip in advance and choose key places like the W.P.


Snyder Jr. towboat or the Kanawha. Schedule time for guided tours. Mark overnight stays at haunted hotels such as the Lafayette Hotel or Bellaire House.


Allocate about 11 hours of driving across four days to visit the top haunted roads, including Dead Man’s Curve and Route 93 in the Midwest. Check for special events that may need reservations, like ghost walks that mention Roselia Rice or John Keel.


Make sure your vehicle is ready for rural trips between stops like Gore Orphanage Road and Fairview Road’s haunted train car. Have a backup route planned in case there are unexpected detours or closures.


A map keeps your haunted road trip on track.


Pack Safety Essentials

After planning your route and stops, gather safety essentials for the road. Prepare an emergency kit that covers winter weather and unexpected events along Ohio’s most haunted roads.


Pack a flashlight and spare batteries, especially if you want to explore spots like Dead Man’s Curve or Walhalla Road at night. Keep blankets, first aid supplies, and simple tools within easy reach in your car.


Check local forecasts and dress for cold or wet conditions before leaving for places such as Route 93 or Gore Orphanage Road. Make sure everyone has water and snacks ready. If you plan evening drives near historic sites tied to the Shawnee Indians or Thomas Worthington, use a safe driving plan with a designated driver or rideshare app.


This keeps everyone safe during haunted road trips in the Midwest and gets you back to Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country ready for your next adventure.


Check Your Vehicle Before You Go

Schedule a maintenance appointment before any haunted road trips, Midwest adventure. A qualified technician will inspect your vehicle to catch warning lights or mechanical issues early.


Top off fluids like oil, coolant, and windshield washer for safe travel on roads such as Gore Orphanage Road or Route 93 near the Hanging Rock Iron Region.


Check tire pressure and tread depth for a strong grip, especially on rural routes where Shawnees once traveled. Test all lights and signals so your car stays visible at night near places like Walhalla Road or Dead Man’s Curve in Cleveland.


Ensure you have a good spare tire and jack in case of roadside trouble.

Test your battery; replace it if needed, so you do not risk being stranded during spooky drives along Fairview Road.


Review emergency procedures and make sure roadside assistance is active before heading out with family.


Next up is how Tom Tepe Autocenter’s inventory helps you find the right ride for every haunted destination in Ohio.

Red SUV parked on icy ground, with a forest of bare trees in the background. The car has black wheels and a shiny finish under a clear sky.

Conclusion

Haunted roads bring excitement and chills to October nights in Ohio. Safe, comfortable cars from Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country help families explore these spooky places with confidence.


Our team is ready to match you with the right vehicle for your adventure. Start your ghostly journey knowing you are in good hands. Let us keep your road trip safe and memorable this Halloween season.


FAQs

1) Are these “haunted roads” actually safe to visit with my family?Yes—if you treat them like any rural night drive. Stick to public roads and posted pull-offs, avoid trespassing on private property, slow down on blind curves, and plan your stops in populated areas. Check the weather, share your route, and use common sense—your goal is spooky fun, not risky detours.


2) What vehicle features does Tom Tepe recommend for October night drives on rural routes?Prioritize all-wheel drive (or 4WD), good ground clearance, strong headlights (LED or projector), fresh wiper blades, solid tires with plenty of tread, and modern driver-assist tech like Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking. Pack an emergency kit (jumper pack, blanket, first-aid, flashlight) and a real spare tire.


3) Which pre-owned models at Tom Tepe work well for these trips?Families often choose versatile AWD SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback, Chevy Equinox/Traverse, Honda Pilot/Passport, or Mazda CX-5. For efficient pavement-focused routes, midsize sedans with good headlights and driver aids are great picks. Inventory changes daily—our teams at Tom Tepe Autocenter (Milan, IN) and Car Country (Aurora, IN & Harrison, OH) can line up test drives.


4) How should I prep my vehicle before a haunted-road loop?Do a quick safety check: top off fluids, inspect brakes, test the battery, set tire pressures, confirm tread depth, replace worn wipers, and verify all exterior lights. Bring a paper map/phone, offline maps, charged phones, water/snacks, and keep your fuel tank above half. If you’d like, schedule a pre-trip inspection with our service department.


5) What financing or trade-in options can help me get into a safer fall road-trip vehicle?You can start an application online, estimate payments, and get a trade-in value for your current vehicle. Our finance team will present competitive options on approved credit and for qualified customers—and we’ll walk you through down-payment, term, and protection plans so you’re confident before you hit the road.

Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter


Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.


Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.


Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.


Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.

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