Certified pre-owned vehicles are trade-ins or leased cars that undergo a multipoint inspection. They also have fewer miles than used models and usually come with additional benefits like a warranty and roadside assistance programs.
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Peace of Mind
When you shop for a certified pre-owned car, you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing the vehicle has passed an extensive inspection. The specifics of the inspection vary by manufacturer. Additionally, most CPO programs include a limited warranty from the manufacturer and the remaining term of the original new-car contract. However, this extra peace of mind comes with a cost, as various fees are associated with the program. In addition, the vehicles tend to be slightly more expensive than regular used cars because dealers have to invest in making any necessary repairs to make them suitable for certification. However, the additional warranty and extra perks can be worth it for some shoppers, especially if you’re looking for reliability and that elusive new-car smell.
Warranty
A manufacturer-backed warranty is just one of the perks of purchasing a certified pre-owned car. Unlike typical used cars, CPO vehicles are typically backed by the vehicle’s manufacturer and have been inspected by trained mechanics. In addition, most CPO programs offer a free history report from an organization such as AutoCheck or Carfax, which can reveal past accidents and other important information. The inspection process can be costly for used car dealerships, which means a CPO car will generally cost more than a comparable used vehicle. Additionally, the low-mileage requirements and stringent inspections mean only a limited number of used vehicles qualify as certified pre-owned vehicles. In some cases, certified-used car buyers can also enjoy extra perks such as roadside assistance and travel concierge services. These services can be invaluable if your car breaks down or needs repair. Some programs even include complimentary maintenance. These extras can make owning a CPO car an attractive option for many drivers.
Warranty
A manufacturer-backed warranty is just one of the perks of purchasing a certified pre-owned car. Unlike typical used cars, CPO vehicles are typically backed by the vehicle’s manufacturer and have been inspected by trained mechanics. The inspection process can be costly for used car dealerships, which means a CPO car will generally cost more than a comparable used vehicle. Additionally, the low-mileage requirements and stringent inspections mean only a limited number of used cars qualify as certified pre-owned vehicles. In some cases, certified-used car buyers can also enjoy extra perks such as roadside assistance and travel concierge services. These services can be invaluable if your car breaks down or needs repair. Some programs even include complimentary maintenance. These extras can make owning a CPO car an attractive option for many drivers.
Reliability
Certified pre-owned cars offer the reliability of a new vehicle but at a much lower price. These vehicles tend to have less wear and tear, and the manufacturers of CPO vehicles back them with a warranty that covers an extended period. The warranties on these cars are generally more comprehensive than those on used vehicles, and they come with many extras. Most car manufacturers have guidelines for CPO programs, but all require late-model cars with clean history reports. These models must thoroughly inspect and repair before selling them as CPO cars. Many automakers also offer a limited powertrain warranty for seven years or 100,000 miles, often including other warranties. Car buyers should always compare the prices of CPO cars with those of used and new ones to see how they stack up in price.
Free Maintenance
A certified pre-owned car program is a great way to minimize risk when buying a used vehicle. With a limited warranty and other CPO perks, you can feel confident driving your vehicle for the next few years. However, it’s essential to remember that these programs come at a cost. Because the inspections, warranties, and extra perks often cost more than regular used vehicles. Additionally, some dealers may try to sell you additional warranties outside the manufacturer-backed certification programs. These can include paint and fabric protection, rust-proofing, and anti-theft systems. Be sure to compare these warranties with those of the dealership and other providers before deciding. It’s also best to follow the maintenance schedule of the CPO program to avoid voiding the warranty. Keeping up with routine maintenance will keep you safe on the road and help you save on repair costs in the future. The peace of mind and confidence a CPO vehicle can offer can be worth the added price tag.
