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Writer's pictureHarry Tepe

Pre-Purchase Prep: A Used BMW History & Maintenance Checklist For Ohio Buyers In 2025


BMW

Buying a used Lincoln in Ohio can feel overwhelming. One key fact is that a solid pre-purchase plan makes all the difference. This article will guide you through an essential Used Lincoln Pre-purchase Checklist 2025.


Let's make your car buying smooth and exciting.


Why Buy a Used Lincoln in Ohio?

Buying a used Lincoln in Ohio offers luxury at an affordable price. You get trusted performance and reliability that stands the test of time.


Luxury at an Affordable Price

Pre-owned Lincolns provide luxury accessibility for many. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we showcase models like the Nautilus, Aviator, and MKZ. These vehicles are equipped with top-tier features but are more affordable than the latest models.


We ensure the availability of low mileage variants, giving you the pleasure of a vehicle that feels almost fresh, minus the steep cost.


Our financing possibilities further broaden the scope for many to own a luxury vehicle. Moreover, being a Lincoln owner comes with additional benefits such as the Lincoln Way App. This enhances the value of your purchase at our dealership, whether in Harrison Ohio or Milan Indiana.


Experience luxury without the profound financial commitment at Tom Tepe Autocenter.


Trusted Performance and Reliability

Lincolns are known for their trusted performance and reliability, which is why they're a great choice for drivers in the Midwest, from Cincinnati to Indianapolis. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter makes sure every used Lincoln meets high standards before it hits our lot.


With a comprehensive review covering 200 points on each vehicle, we ensure its quality and safety. This means you can drive off confident that your Lincoln won't let you down.


Every pre-owned Lincoln also comes with a detailed history report from CARFAX®. This gives you peace of mind by showing the car's past, including previous owners and service records.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we stand behind the luxury cars we sell, making your dream car an affordable reality without compromising on performance or reliability.


Importance of a History and Maintenance Checklist

A history and maintenance checklist is crucial for ensuring you get a good deal on a used Lincoln. It helps uncover any potential issues that could cost you down the line. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we prioritize giving shoppers in Ohio detailed information so they can buy with confidence.


Ensuring the Vehicle’s Value

Ensuring a vehicle's value is key, especially for those eyeing a used Lincoln. Regular maintenance plays a big role in this. Cars that get proper care tend to last longer and have more value when it’s time to sell them.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we notice well-kept vehicles fetch higher prices on the market. This is why knowing the car's service history matters.


We always suggest checking the maintenance schedule by using your VIN. It tells you what needs doing based on how many miles the car has driven. Keeping up with this schedule boosts not just performance but also resale price down the road.


Trust relies on transparency and quality assurance - core values at Tom Tepe Autocenter.


Avoiding Hidden Issues

Checking a used Lincoln for hidden issues before you buy is key. A full inspection can stop costly repairs later. We suggest looking at the oil change history first. If a car has synthetic oil, it should have changes every 5,000-7,500 miles.


For conventional oil, every 3,000 miles is best. This simple step shows if the previous owner took good care of the vehicle.


Next, check tire health and make sure they've been rotated every 6,000-8,000 miles. Also test the battery strength; cold weather makes this even more important. Clean terminals are must-haves to avoid starting trouble.


By following these tips from our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, you're on your way to getting a great pre-owned Lincoln without any unwanted surprises.


Key History Checks Before Buying

Before you decide on a used Lincoln, our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter emphasizes the importance of key history checks. These steps ensure that your choice is not just visually appealing but also reliable and valuable in the long run.


VIN Inspection and Vehicle History Report

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we know how vital a VIN inspection and vehicle history report are for your peace of mind. This check ensures you're making an informed decision before buying a used Lincoln.


With the car's unique VIN, you can learn about its past owners, the latest odometer readings, and more crucial details from CarFax. This process helps avoid surprises down the road by revealing essential information about the car’s history.


A thorough VIN inspection and detailed vehicle history report lay the groundwork for a confident purchase.


Our team at Car Country takes this step seriously for every pre-owned Lincoln on our lot. We understand that learning as much as possible about a vehicle's past gives you confidence in your buying choice.


Ohio shoppers can get an out-of-state VIN inspection at any deputy registrar license agency or licensed motor vehicle dealership across Ohio, ensuring transparency no matter where your future Lincoln has traveled from.


Checking for Service Recalls and Scheduled Maintenance

Check your used Lincoln for recalls. Use the VIN on the Lincoln Owner Support Site or in the Lincoln Way® App. Find out if there are any recalls. You won't pay for recall fixes. They're free.


Also, make sure to look at scheduled maintenance records. This tells you if the car got proper care. It helps avoid hidden problems later.


Next, let's go over reviewing accident and repair history.


Reviewing Accident and Repair History

Checking a vehicle's past for accidents and repairs is key. This step tells you if the car has been in any crashes. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter understands this is crucial for anyone shopping for a used Lincoln.


A history report can show salvage titles, which mean the car was once seen as a total loss. It also checks for odometer issues to make sure no one changed the mileage.


Services like Carfax and AutoCheck help us dig into these details. We use them to ensure you get a clear picture of every used Lincoln’s past before making your choice. Knowing if there were major repairs helps gauge the car's current state and value.


Now, let's move on to what essential maintenance items you should check next.


Used BMW Car

Essential Maintenance Checklist Items

Assessing the crucial maintenance aspects of a pre-owned Lincoln is vital for enduring gratification. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we emphasize the need for meticulously checking engine performance, fluid levels, and verifying the condition of underbody components, such as brakes and suspension.


This commitment guarantees that every Lincoln in our vicinity aligns with our elevated benchmarks prior to settling in its upcoming location.


Underhood Inspections (Engine, Fluids, Belts)

Checking the engine, fluids, and belts is crucial when shopping for a used Lincoln. First, inspect the engine oil to ensure it's at the right level and looks clean, not dark or gritty.

This tells you about the car’s maintenance history. Brake fluid should meet DOT 3 specs – this is non-negotiable for safety. Also, check coolant levels using boiling/freezing point methods and by looking at its condition in the reservoir; it should be clear of any debris or discoloration.


For belts, make sure they’re tensioned as per manufacturer recommendations. Loose belts can lead to poor performance or even damage underhood components. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter carefully examines these aspects on every pre-owned Lincoln we sell because we know how important a reliable vehicle is to our customers in Ohio and beyond.


Ensuring that each used Lincoln passes our thorough underhood inspection guarantees peace of mind for our buyers. - The Team at Tom Tepe Autocenter


Underbody Checks (Suspension, Brakes, Exhaust System)

After looking at the engine and fluids, it's time to check under the car. This is where you find parts like the suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. These checks are key for a used Lincoln's health and safety.


First, inspect the suspension. It keeps your ride smooth. If there's damage here, you might face rough driving or even lose control. Next, check the brakes. For your safety and performance, brake inspections are a must-do on every used Lincoln we consider at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.


Lastly, don't forget about the exhaust system. A well-maintained exhaust ensures optimal engine performance. Remember to do these checks once a year or every 10,000 miles to keep your vehicle running strong.


Our team takes these underbody inspections seriously because they play a huge role in prolonging a vehicle’s life and ensuring its reliability on Ohio roads.


Vehicle Exterior (Paint, Tires, Lights)

Checking the exterior is key when looking at a used Lincoln. Look closely at body panels, bumpers, and how doors and hoods line up. They should all be smooth and even. Paint condition can tell you a lot about the car's past care and any accidents it might have had.

Tires are also important. They need to have good tread for safe driving.


Lights play a big part too. Make sure all lights work. This includes headlights, taillights, blinkers, parking lights, and emergency lights. Each one needs to light up right when turned on without delay or flickering signs of problems with electrical systems or bulbs needing replacement.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter in Ohio, we ensure every pre-owned Lincoln passes these checks before hitting our lot because we understand that quality matters to our shoppers in Kentucky and Aurora Indiana looking for their next vehicle.


Vehicle Interior (Seats, Electronics, Dashboard)

Assess the seats to ensure they modify appropriately. This is crucial for comfort. Also, examine the electronics. The audio and alarm systems must function effectively. Remember about the HVAC/defrost for your comfort throughout the year.


It's essential that every light inside operates as well, from the dashboard to reading lights.

Proceed then to reviewing Lincoln's previously owned program specifics.


Used BMW

Benefits of Lincoln’s Pre-Owned Program

The Lincoln Assured Secondhand Program provides tranquility through a meticulous 200-point examination and an extensive limited assurance of quality. Each automobile is accompanied by a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™, guaranteeing you are fully aware of the rich history of your upcoming Lincoln.


200-Point Inspection Details

Lincoln's Pre-Owned program offers a tough 200-Point Inspection. Our team checks everything from the history to road tests, plus inside and outside details. We look at engines, brakes, tires, and more to make sure each Lincoln meets high standards.


Customers can see our checklist online. This shows we check many parts like cooling systems, fuel setups, and electrical bits. Plus, we cover hybrid tech if it’s there. This thorough check helps us offer great Lincolns that are ready for the road.


CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we stand for transparency when our customers are in the market for a pre-owned Lincoln. For this purpose, we provide a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™ on selective vehicles.


This report serves as a cornerstone in the essential checks for pre-owned Lincoln process. It provides all the past details required for you to feel fully informed about your potential automotive investment, including any past complications it might have experienced.


The CARFAX® report ensures that every pre-owned Lincoln has undergone a meticulous evaluation. You'll uncover data about previous owners, which aids in maintaining an open dialogue with our customers.


We subject every vehicle to this thorough history analysis because we comprehend how crucial it is to purchase with assurance.


Understanding the comprehensive history of your impending vehicle acquisition can be a game changer. That's why at Tom Tepe Autocenter, we provide access to the CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™ - promoting serenity in each transaction.


Pre Owned BMW

Tips for a Confident Purchase at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we guide you through a detailed review of our used Lincoln inventory to ensure your next vehicle meets all your expectations. We make it simple for you to understand the value of test drives and the specifics of trade-in options, making your purchase decision confident and informed.


Exploring Used Lincoln Inventory

Exploring our used Lincoln inventory offers a chance to own luxury at an easier cost. We have models like the Nautilus, Aviator, and MKZ. These cars are known for their comfort and style.


You can find ones with low miles, making them a great deal. Trading in your old car can also help get you an even better offer on these premium vehicles.


Our team makes sure each Lincoln passes detailed checks before we list it. This includes looking at the engine, brakes, and more. We want to make sure you drive away happy and confident in your choice.


Visit us to see how our pre-owned Lincolns match up to your needs and dreams.


Test Drive and Road Test Evaluation

A test drive is key in evaluating a used Lincoln. At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we stress the importance of this 30-minute experience. It lets you assess the car's condition firsthand.


We advise planning a route that covers both city and highway driving. This variety helps you see how the car behaves under different conditions.


During your test drive, pay close attention to how the brakes work with soft and forceful braking. Comparing vehicles back-to-back can also offer valuable insights, making it easier to decide which Lincoln meets your needs best.


Our team stands ready to assist with scheduling these drives, ensuring you make an informed choice for your next vehicle purchase.


Understanding Incentives and Trade-In Options

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we offer great trade-in values for your current car. This helps make your dream of owning a used Lincoln more affordable. We evaluate your car's worth during the purchase process.


This means you can lower the price of the Lincoln you want to buy.


We also provide many financing options for qualified buyers. Our team works hard to get low-interest loans for our customers. If needed, we can adjust loan terms to fit your budget better. For those looking to refine their existing car loans, refinancing options are available too.


Our goal is to make buying a used Lincoln both easy and exciting for vehicle shoppers in Ohio and Indiana.


Financing Options and Applying for Credit

After exploring incentives and trade-in options, it's crucial to understand financing choices for your used Lincoln purchase. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we offer various finance resources to help make buying easier.


Our Finance Center features an online car loan calculator. This tool gives you instant rate assessments, making planning simple.


You can also fill out our online finance application for quick loan processing. We support all credit types, including those with poor credit or no credit history. This means more customers can find a path towards owning a pre-owned Lincoln without stress.

With these tools and supports in place, applying for credit is straightforward at our dealership.


Conclusion

Buying a used Lincoln in Ohio? Remember, checking its history and maintenance is key. This guide helps you know exactly what to look for. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country ensures every Lincoln meets high standards before it reaches you.


Feel confident with your choice here, where quality and customer happiness matter most. Let's find your perfect Lincoln together.


Frequently Asked Questions

1.What makes a pre-owned Lincoln a good choice for drivers in Ohio?

A pre-owned Lincoln offers luxury and reliability at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for Ohio drivers. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, each Lincoln undergoes a rigorous 200-point inspection to ensure it meets our high standards of performance and safety. This means you can enjoy the premium features of a luxury vehicle without the new car price tag.


2. How can I be sure of a used Lincoln’s history and condition before purchasing? 

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, transparency is a top priority. Every used Lincoln on our lot comes with a detailed CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™, which includes information on previous ownership, service records, and whether the car has been involved in any accidents. This report helps you make an informed decision with complete confidence in the vehicle's past.


3. What benefits does the Lincoln Way App provide to Lincoln owners?

The Lincoln Way App enhances the ownership experience by offering several convenient features such as remote start, lock and unlock services, and easy access to 24-hour roadside assistance. It also provides personalized customer service directly from your smartphone, ensuring that managing your Lincoln is as luxurious and convenient as driving it.


4. What should I check during the test drive of a pre-owned Lincoln?

During your test drive at Tom Tepe Autocenter, pay attention to the vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall comfort. We recommend driving on both city streets and highways to get a feel for the car under various conditions. Listen for any unusual noises and ensure all electronics, including the dashboard and infotainment systems, are functioning properly. Our sales team is here to assist you with any questions during your test drive.


5. Can I trade in my current vehicle when purchasing a used Lincoln?

Absolutely! Tom Tepe Autocenter offers competitive trade-in values that can be applied towards the purchase of a used Lincoln. Our team will evaluate your current vehicle’s condition and provide a fair market valuation. This process not only helps make your next luxury vehicle more affordable but also simplifies the transition to your newer Lincoln.


 

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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