May 11, 2026

Essential Checks for Budget Summer Travel


Get Road Trip Ready Without Overspending

Summer travel is one of the most affordable ways to enjoy time with family and friends, but unexpected vehicle problems can quickly turn a budget-friendly trip into an expensive headache. Before heading out on the road, taking a few simple maintenance steps can help keep your vehicle reliable, safe, and efficient throughout the season.


Check Tires Before You Travel

One of the most important summer travel checks is your tires. Warm weather and long highway drives can put extra stress on tire performance. Drivers should inspect tire tread, look for uneven wear, and confirm proper air pressure before leaving town. Properly inflated tires not only improve safety but also help maximize fuel efficiency for longer trips.


Inspect Fluids and Cooling Systems

Summer heat can be tough on vehicles, especially during extended travel. Checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid helps reduce the risk of overheating or mechanical issues on the road. Coolant levels are especially important during warmer months because they help regulate engine temperature during stop-and-go traffic and long-distance driving.


Test Your Battery and Brakes

A weak battery can quickly ruin vacation plans. If your battery is older or has been slow to start, it’s worth having it tested before traveling. Drivers should also inspect brake performance before road trips. Reliable brakes are essential during heavy summer traffic and changing road conditions.


Don’t Forget Safety Essentials

Packing a small emergency kit can make a big difference during unexpected situations. Items like jumper cables, bottled water, a flashlight, a phone charger, and a first-aid kit are inexpensive additions that provide extra peace of mind while traveling.


Start Summer Travels with Confidence

Routine maintenance and vehicle inspections are some of the easiest ways to avoid surprise repair costs during summer travel. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a long family vacation, preparing your vehicle ahead of time helps keep your travels affordable, safe, and stress-free.

looking to upgrade your vehicle before Summer? Check out our website here

Inspection Tips for a Used Vehicle: What to Look for Before You Buy

Buying a used vehicle can be a smart financial move—but only if you know what to look for. A thorough inspection can save you from unexpected repairs and give you confidence in your purchase.

Start with the Exterior
Walk around the vehicle and check for dents, scratches, or rust. Uneven paint or mismatched panels could indicate past accidents. Pay close attention to the tires—uneven wear might signal alignment or suspension issues. Don’t forget to check that all lights, including headlights and brake lights, are working properly.

Check Under the Hood
Pop the hood and inspect fluid levels like oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Dirty or low fluids can be a red flag for poor maintenance. Look for leaks, corrosion on the battery, or worn belts and hoses. Even if you’re not a mechanic, obvious signs of neglect are easy to spot.

Inspect the Interior
Sit inside and test everything—power windows, locks, air conditioning, heat, and infotainment system. Look for excessive wear on the seats, steering wheel, and pedals, which could indicate higher mileage than shown. Make sure there are no unusual odors, especially musty smells that could point to water damage.

Take It for a Test Drive
A test drive is essential. Pay attention to how the vehicle starts, accelerates, brakes, and handles. Listen for unusual noises like knocking, squealing, or rattling. Make sure the transmission shifts smoothly and the steering feels responsive.

Review the Vehicle History
Always check a vehicle history report for accidents, service records, and title status. This step can reveal hidden issues you might not see during a physical inspection. Check the CARFAX that we provide for all of our vehicles!

Shop with Confidence at Dave Says Yes
At Dave Says Yes, every vehicle is inspected before it ever hits the lot, giving you added peace of mind right from the start. But we don’t stop there—we’re happy to walk you through the inspection yourself, pointing out key features and answering any questions along the way. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident, informed, and excited about your purchase.

How to Maximize Your Tax Refund on a Reliable Pre-Owned Vehicle

Tax season is the perfect opportunity to turn your refund into something practical and long-lasting — like a reliable pre-owned vehicle from Dave Says Yes. Instead of spending your refund on short-term purchases, investing it in dependable transportation can set you up for success all year long! 


Use Your Refund as a Strong Down Payment

One of the best ways to maximize your tax refund is by applying it as a down payment. A larger down payment can lower your monthly payments, reduce the amount of interest you pay overtime, and even improve your chances of loan approval. Our team works with a wide range of lenders to help you secure financing that fits your budget.


Choose Reliability Over Flash

When shopping pre-owned, focus on dependable models known for longevity and value retention. Vehicles from brands like Toyota, Honda, and Chevrolet are often praised for reliability and affordable maintenance. A well-maintained pre-owned vehicle can provide years of dependable driving without the higher cost of buying new. From fuel-efficient sedans to family-friendly SUVs, there’s something for everyone!


Take Advantage of Tax Season Specials

Tax time is one of the biggest automotive buying seasons of the year, it often brings special promotions and incentives on pre-owned inventory. Keep an eye out for limited time offers that can help you save even more. Combining your refund with dealership specials can maximize your purchasing power. 


Consider Total Cost of Ownership

Beyond the purchase price, think about insurance costs, fuel economy, and maintenance. Selecting a vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget will help you make the most of your investment. Pre-owned vehicles typically come with lower insurance premiums compared to brand-new models. That means more savings month after month — stretching the value of your tax refund even further.


Your tax refund is more than extra cash — it’s an opportunity. Visit Dave Says Yes and let our team help you maximize your refund, secure affordable financing, and drive away with confidence in a dependable pre-owned vehicle built for your lifestyle!

Jan 26, 2026

Advanced Safety Features That Help You Drive With Confidence

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced safety technology designed to support drivers in everyday situations. These features help reduce stress, improve awareness, and add an extra layer of protection on the road—whether you’re commuting, traveling, or running errands around town.


Blind Spot Monitor


Blind Spot Monitoring helps alert drivers when another vehicle is traveling in an area that may not be visible in the side mirrors. When a vehicle is detected, a warning light or alert activates, helping make lane changes safer and more confident—especially on busy highways.


Forward Collision Warning


Forward Collision Warning continuously monitors the distance between your vehicle and the one ahead. If a potential collision is detected, the system alerts the driver to take action. This early warning can help reduce the likelihood of front-end accidents caused by sudden stops or distractions.


Lane Departure Warning


Lane Departure Warning tracks lane markings and notifies the driver if the vehicle begins to drift without signaling. This feature is especially helpful during long drives, helping prevent unintended lane changes due to fatigue or momentary inattention.


Lane Keep Assist


Lane Keep Assist works alongside Lane Departure Warning by gently correcting steering when the vehicle drifts from its lane. While the driver stays fully in control, this feature adds extra confidence during highway driving.


Adaptive Cruise Control


Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a preset speed while automatically adjusting to keep a safe following distance. It helps reduce driver fatigue and promotes smoother driving in changing traffic conditions.


Parking Sensors / Assist


Parking Sensors and Assist systems use alerts and visual guides to help detect objects while parking. This makes maneuvering into tight spaces easier and helps prevent minor collisions.

At Dave Says Yes in Troy, Ohio, we offer vehicles equipped with these advanced safety features—because your confidence on the road matters!


Click below to see one of the amazing vehicles we offer that has almost all of the features listed above!

Pre-Owned 2020 Buick Envision Premium II 4D Sport Utility in Troy #B19054BT | Dave Arbogast

Dec 08, 2025

Low Mileage, High Holiday Value: 2015 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ AWD

Stock: P36737T
Arbogast Price: $13,995
Mileage: 87,207
Low Mileage, High Holiday Value: over 30,000 miles below market average!

As winter approaches and holiday travel ramps up, the 2015 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ AWD stands out as a reliable, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV for drivers seeking confidence on the road. This model offers a refined blend of luxury, capability, and advanced technology—making it an excellent choice for seasonal driving conditions and everyday use.


Winter-Ready Performance

The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides added control during snowy or icy conditions, ensuring stability when the weather becomes unpredictable. Safety and visibility features such as Fog Lights, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Parking Sensors / Assist enhance driver awareness during winter commutes and holiday travel.

Used 2015 Summit White Chevrolet LTZ image 16


Comfort & Convenience for the Season

The LTZ trim level delivers a premium interior designed to keep occupants warm, comfortable, and connected throughout the colder months. Key features include:

  • Heated Leather Seats

  • Automatic Climate Control

  • Power Seats with Memory Settings

  • Hands-Free Liftgate

  • Keyless Entry

  • Sunroof / Moonroof

Whether you’re driving to family gatherings, shopping for gifts, or navigating daily routes, the Equinox offers a quiet, inviting cabin that elevates every trip.

Used 2015 Summit White Chevrolet LTZ image 19Used 2015 Summit White Chevrolet LTZ image 25


Technology That Enhances Every Drive

This model comes equipped with a suite of technology features that make winter driving easier and more enjoyable:

  • Navigation System

  • Premium Audio System

  • Bluetooth Connectivity

  • Satellite Radio Ready

  • WiFi Hotspot

  • Backup Camera

  • Remote Start

These features support both convenience and entertainment, helping you stay connected during longer holiday drives while ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.

Used 2015 Summit White Chevrolet LTZ image 5Used 2015 Summit White Chevrolet LTZ image 6


A Standout Value for the Holidays

Priced at $13,995 and offering significantly lower mileage than the market average, this SUV delivers outstanding value. Its combination of luxury amenities, safety technology, and winter-ready capability makes it an excellent choice for drivers seeking both comfort and confidence this season.

Visit Dave Says Yes for low mileage and high holiday value!

Sharing the Savings This Thanksgiving: Drive Home a 2021 Ford Edge Titanium


With Thanksgiving right around the corner, there’s no better time to celebrate comfort, value, and reliability. At Dave Says Yes, we’re kicking off the season by Sharing the Savings, and one of the best deals on the lot is the well-equipped 2021 Ford Edge Titanium FWD, priced at just $19,987 with 74,239 miles.


Perfect for holiday travel and everyday driving alike, the Edge Titanium offers a refined experience from the moment you step inside. Premium leather seats, upscale interior accents, power seats with memory settings, and heated front seats bring luxury into every mile. Pair that with remote start and keyless entry, and chilly mornings suddenly feel a lot more inviting.


Staying connected during the holidays is easy thanks to a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, seamless Bluetooth, and Satellite Radio Ready entertainment for the whole family. Whether you’re heading to a family gathering or tackling your holiday shopping list, the hands-free liftgate makes loading and unloading on the go effortless.


Safety is one of the biggest savings we share at Dave Says Yes, and the 2021 Edge Titanium is fully loaded with confidence-boosting features. A Backup Camera, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Departure Warning, and Parking Sensors/Assist help protect what matters most. Add Side-Impact Air Bags, fog lights, and rain-sensing wipers, and you’re ready for unpredictable late-fall weather.


This Thanksgiving season, treat yourself to a vehicle that elevates every drive while keeping your budget in mind. At just $19,987, the 2021 Ford Edge Titanium FWD delivers outstanding value, comfort, and safety.


Stop by Dave Says Yes and discover why so many drivers are thankful for the savings, service, and selection—especially this time of year!

Nov 04, 2025

Feature Vehicle Spotlight – 2015 Kia Sportage LX FWD

Available Now at Dave Says Yes | Stock: P36659T | Arbogast Price: $10,995

At Dave Says Yes, we believe everyone deserves a chance to drive a vehicle they love—and this spotlight shines on a ride that proves you don’t have to spend big to get big features: the 2015 Kia Sportage LX FWD.


With just 96,860 miles, this sporty SUV sits 13,574 miles below the market average, offering excellent value for only $10,995. The Sportage LX blends sleek design with everyday practicality, making it a top choice for drivers who want reliability without sacrificing style.


Inside, you’ll find comfort and convenience at every turn! Cloth seat trim, front bucket seats, and a split-folding rear seat that makes room for gear, groceries, or weekend adventures. Connect easily with Bluetooth, tune in to SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and enjoy crisp sound from the six-speaker AM/FM audio system. The backup camera and remote keyless entry add an extra layer of ease and safety to your drive, while steering wheel-mounted controls and cruise control keep you in command on the go.


This SUV earned a spot on Kelley Blue Book’s Best Compact SUVs of 2015. It’s a dependable, fun-to-drive SUV that’s built to keep up with your lifestyle.


At Dave Says Yes, our mission is simple: to make finding your dream vehicle easy, no matter your credit situation. Whether you’re searching for your first car, upgrading your daily driver, or finding the perfect SUV for the family!


Visit us in Troy or explore online and see how Dave Says Yes to helping drivers find their perfect ride!