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Writer's pictureHarry Tepe

Smooth Driving Ahead: Your First 90 Days With A Used Chevrolet In The Midwest For 2025



Pre Owned Chevrolet

Buying a used car can make you worry about what comes next. One key step is following the Used Chevrolet Post-purchase Checklist 2025. Our guide will help you enjoy smooth driving in your Chevrolet during those first 90 days.


Ready for a ride?


Why Choose a Used Chevrolet in the Midwest for 2025?

Choosing a used Chevrolet for your next vehicle in 2025 is a smart move, especially here in the Midwest. These cars offer both affordability and reliability, making them perfect matches for our roads and varying weather conditions.


Affordability and Reliability

Opting for a previously owned Chevrolet in the Midwest comes with two significant advantages: cost-effectiveness and dependability. With the mean prices for pre-owned vehicles around $25,500, shoppers identify excellent value here.


This expense is considerably less than the previously unowned models that command an average of $47,870. Our group at Tom Tepe Autocenter ensures each transport is primed for the journey, striving to align with your aspirations for a reliable commute.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we're dedicated to proposing transports that suit your finances without sacrificing excellence.


In 2025, the robust economy and reduced interest rates are set to make these bargains even more enticing. We've observed a demand boost for pre-loved Chevrolets by 17% the previous year.


Due to this rise, our stockpile has expanded by 10%. Additionally, the forecasted price reductions between 3-5% by late 2025 means you can anticipate even superior value when exploring our offerings in Ohio, Indiana, or Kentucky.


Chevrolet Interior

Designed for Midwest Roads and Weather

Chevrolet models, like the Silverado and Equinox, are built to handle the Midwest's changing weather and roads. They have strong engines and sturdy bodies. This makes them great for snow in winter and hot summers we get in Cincinnati or Indianapolis.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter knows these cars can take on rainy springs and icy winters without trouble.


Our customers from Harrison Ohio to Milan Indiana love used Chevrolets for their dependability. These vehicles come with features that keep you safe on slippery roads or during a storm.


At Car Country, we see families trust these cars for daily drives and workers rely on them for tough jobs. Buying a used Chevrolet means getting a car that fits Midwest life perfectly.


Preparing for Your First 90 Days

Getting your used Chevrolet ready for the first 90 days sets you on the path to smooth driving. It's about knowing your car and making sure everything is in order from day one.


Reviewing the Owner’s Manual

Checking the owner’s manual is a must for anyone getting a used Chevrolet. This book tells you about maintenance specifics, like which oil types your car needs and how to use features such as cruise control.


It’s all about keeping your vehicle running smoothly.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter always suggests reading this guide thoroughly. It helps you understand your vehicle better, ensuring you enjoy every ride in your Chevrolet while avoiding common issues that could pop up from not knowing important details about your car’s care requirements.


Setting Up Insurance and Registration

Getting the right insurance for your used Chevrolet is key. You must have full coverage if you're financing the vehicle. It's smart to set up insurance before you visit us at Tom Tepe Autocenter.


This way, you make sure your car is covered from day one. For registration, if you buy from a private seller, it's on you to transfer the title. But here at our dealership, we often handle registration for you.


If not, just take your ownership documents to the DMV.


Next, let’s go through what to check before buying a used Chevrolet.


Pre-Purchase Checklist for a Used Chevrolet

Before you buy a used Chevrolet, let me guide you through an essential pre-purchase checklist. This step ensures your vehicle is both safe and reliable for the road ahead.


Inspecting the Exterior and Interior

Look over the body of the used Chevrolet for any dings, scrapes, or paint issues. This step is crucial to make sure your car looks good and has no hidden damage. Also, check the glass parts like windows and lenses for any cracks or moisture signs that shouldn't be there.


For the inside part, assess the seats, dashboard, and controls carefully. You want everything to be in top shape – no tears on seats or problems with how things work. At Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, we emphasize these checks as part of our pre-owned Chevrolet maintenance tips so you can drive off confident in your purchase's condition.


Chevrolet Wheels

Checking Under the Hood and Tires

Under the hood, always check for leaks and corrosion. Look carefully at belts and hoses to make sure they're in good shape. This can tell you how well the previous owner took care of the Chevrolet.


Also, glance under the car for any leaks or residue that might hint at bigger issues.

For tires, ensure they wear evenly and have enough tread. Uneven wear could mean alignment problems or suspension issues. Proper tire inspection is crucial for safety on Midwest roads.


After checking these areas, move on to reviewing the vehicle history report to understand past services and repairs on your potential used Chevrolet from Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.


Reviewing the Vehicle History Report

After checking under the hood and tires, don't forget to look at the vehicle history report. This is a must-do step before making your purchase. A detailed history report, like CARFAX®, can tell you a lot about the Chevrolet you’re considering.


It covers past ownership, any accidents it might have been in, its service records, and if there are any title problems.


A clean vehicle history report gives peace of mind. It's all about knowing what your car has been through before it becomes yours, we always say here at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.


Accidents can affect how safe and reliable a car is. If the Chevrolet has been in major accidents or has a salvage title, this could impact how much you enjoy driving it. The insurance costs might go up and selling the car later could be harder.


Always check this report so there are no surprises after you’ve already bought the car.


Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Used Chevrolet

Keeping your used Chevrolet running smoothly involves regular care. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country emphasizes the importance of timely maintenance to ensure you enjoy a reliable ride.


Regular Oil Changes and Fluid Checks

For your used Chevrolet, regular oil changes are key to keeping the engine running smoothly and making it last longer. Change conventional oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If you use synthetic oil, change it every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.


This simple step can save you from big car troubles down the road.


Checking fluids is just as important for a smooth ride in your Chevrolet. Make sure to check the radiator coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid regularly.


These checks help avoid breakdowns and keep your car safe on Midwest roads. At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora Indiana, we stress these maintenance tips because they are crucial for your vehicle's health and performance.


Monitoring Tire Pressure and Alignment

After looking into regular oil changes and fluid checks, it's crucial to focus on your vehicle's tires and alignment. Keeping an eye on tire pressure is not just about avoiding flat tires; it’s essential for safe driving, comfort, and even saving fuel.


Tires that aren't inflated properly can wear out unevenly. This means they could last a shorter time than they should. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we recommend checking this often to make sure you're always driving smoothly.


Wheel alignment is another key point that shouldn’t be overlooked. It should be checked every 12,000 miles or if you start to notice any issues with how the car handles. Proper alignment helps your Chevrolet drive straight and reduces tire wear, making your ride safer and more enjoyable.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter specializes in maintenance tips for your used Chevrolet. We ensure every vehicle gets the attention it deserves for optimal performance on Midwest roads.


Updating Software and Navigation Systems

Keeping your Chevrolet's software updated is key to smooth driving. For models like the 2019+ Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, a special update needs a dealer visit. You must get this done by October 31, 2026.


The process may take between 2 to 4 hours at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country.


Our team ensures your used Chevrolet stays in top shape with these updates. This not only keeps your navigation system accurate but also makes sure every drive is safe and efficient.

Trust us to handle the essential maintenance tips for your used Chevrolet, including this vital software update.


Making the Most of Your First 90 Days

In the first 90 days with your used Chevrolet, plan some long drives to really understand what your car can do and see what the Midwest has to offer. This initial period is crucial for bonding with your vehicle and ensuring it suits your lifestyle.


For more about making the most of this time and why choosing Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country is your best bet for a great experience, keep reading.


Planning a Test Drive for Long Trips

Test driving a used Chevrolet for long trips is key to feeling confident on the road. Start by choosing routes that mirror your planned travels, including both highways and local roads.

This shows how the car handles in different settings.  A test drive isn't just about driving; it's about experiencing the journey ahead.


Check essential features like the cruise control, navigation system, and comfort of seats over longer periods. Listen for any unusual noises and pay attention to how well the brakes and steering respond.


A thorough test drive helps ensure your used Chevrolet meets all needs for those long Midwest drives. My team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country can guide you through this process, aiming to make every mile in your Chevrolet smooth and enjoyable.


Pre Owned Chevrolet

Exploring Midwest Destinations in Your Chevrolet

After you've gotten comfortable with your Chevrolet on long trips, it's time to explore the Midwest. The 2025 Chevrolet Suburban is perfect for this adventure. It has advanced technology and luxury comfort that make traveling a breeze.


Plus, its Super Cruise feature allows hands-free driving on many roads, making trips less tiring.


The Suburban's towing capability of 8,200 pounds means you can bring along a boat or camper for your journey. Imagine visiting lakes and camping sites across the Midwest without worrying about space or comfort.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter believes in providing vehicles like the used Chevrolet that let you make the most of every road trip. With our selection, maintenance tips, and service checklist ready, your adventures are just beginning.


Financing Your Used Chevrolet

Financing your used Chevrolet at Tom Tepe Autocenter is easy and flexible. We have options that fit many budgets. You can fill out an application online for special financing deals.

Our team works hard to find the best plan for you.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we want to help make your dream of driving a Chevrolet come true without breaking the bank.


Trading in Your Vehicle for a Used Chevrolet

Exchanging your old vehicle at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country can reduce the expense of a previously owned Chevrolet. This implies you may spend less every month or just make a smaller one-time payment.


We offer fair market value for vehicle exchanges and handle all the paperwork, simplifying the process more than if you sold it yourself. Also, in numerous states, you are taxed only on the discrepancy between your trade-in value and the price of the previously owned Chevrolet.


This could lead to savings on taxes.


Opting for a pre-owned Chevrolet allows you to take advantage of modern safety features and entertainment systems without emptying your wallet. Our team ensures every vehicle aligns with stringent standards before it appears on our lot.


Hence, exchanging with us isn't only about acquiring a different vehicle; it's a step towards improved driving experiences across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky.


Why Buy from Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country?

At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we offer quality vehicles you can trust. Our team provides exceptional customer service and support throughout your buying process.


Trusted Dealerships with Quality Vehicles

Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country stand out for their selection of over 200 used vehicles across Indiana and Ohio. We pride ourselves on offering quality used Chevrolet models perfect for the Midwest.


Each car goes through a thorough inspection to ensure reliability and safety. Our team focuses on transparent sales and financing processes, making it easier for shoppers to find the right vehicle without stress.


Whether you need personal advice on maintenance tips or service checklists, our staff is here to support every step of the way.


We understand that buying a used Chevrolet is an important decision. That's why we offer personalized financing options suited to your needs. Our commitment is to provide exceptional customer service and support, making each buyer confident in their purchase from Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country.


Exceptional Customer Service and Support

After finding the right used Chevrolet, you'll want top-notch service to match. At our dealership, we pride ourselves on giving you just that. Our team is here to help make every step easy for you, from choosing your car to understanding how to keep it running smoothly with essential maintenance tips.


We listen closely and answer any questions about the used Chevrolet service checklist.

Our slogan "Drive Your Dreams" isn't just words; it's a promise. It means we're committed to making sure your experience is as good as it gets, whether you're coming in for advice on your next trip or need help with something specific on your car.


Our active presence on social media also lets us connect directly with you, offering quick answers and updates. Trust us to support your journey from day one and beyond, ensuring smooth driving ahead in your used Chevrolet.


Conclusion

Driving your used Chevrolet in the Midwest offers smooth rides and great adventures ahead. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter makes sure you get a vehicle that fits right into the heart of 2025 roads.


With tips on maintenance and how to make the most of every mile, we guide you through an enjoyable first 90 days. Trust us for support beyond just buying; our service keeps your ride smooth.


Let’s hit those Midwest routes with confidence in your chosen Chevrolet!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1.What makes a used Chevrolet a good choice for driving in the Midwest?

Used Chevrolets are known for their durability and reliability, which are essential for the Midwest's variable weather conditions and road types. Models like the Chevrolet Silverado and Equinox are specifically designed to handle snowy winters and hot summers, ensuring a safe and comfortable driving experience no matter the season.


2. How does Tom Tepe Autocenter ensure the quality of its used Chevrolets? 

At Tom Tepe Autocenter, every used Chevrolet undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure it meets our high standards for safety and performance. This includes detailed checks on the engine, transmission, brakes, and interior features to guarantee reliability. We also provide a full vehicle history report to ensure transparency and trust in your purchase.


3. What should I do in the first 90 days of owning my used Chevrolet to ensure it stays in good condition? 

In the first 90 days, it's important to familiarize yourself with your Chevrolet's maintenance needs. Regular checks should include monitoring oil levels, tire pressure, and alignment. Additionally, reading the owner's manual and setting up a regular maintenance schedule with Tom Tepe Autocenter can help prevent future issues and maintain your vehicle's performance.


4. Can Tom Tepe Autocenter assist with financing my used Chevrolet purchase? 

Absolutely! Tom Tepe Autocenter offers flexible financing options to fit various budgets, including low APR financing for qualified customers on select models. Our finance team works diligently to find the best plan for you, ensuring that your car-buying process is as smooth and affordable as possible.


5. What are some tips for test-driving a used Chevrolet to know it's the right vehicle for me? 

When test-driving a used Chevrolet, consider how the vehicle handles on different types of roads and check for comfort during longer drives. Pay attention to the responsiveness of the brakes and steering, listen for any unusual noises, and ensure all electronic features operate correctly. A comprehensive test drive helps confirm that the vehicle meets your needs and expectations, and our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter is here to guide you through this process to make sure you feel confident in your choice.



 

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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