What's the difference between used and certified pre-owned vehicles?

Oftentimes, cars are passed around from owner to owner. These chains can be made up of friends, family, or strangers, and vehicles are frequently owned by more than one person throughout their lifespan. When someone makes the choice to buy a vehicle that isn’t brand new, he or she has two options: a used car or a certified pre-owned car. Though these choices may appear identical on the surface, there are key differences that determine which route a buyer takes. We looked into the characteristics that separate a used car from a certified pre-owned car, so you can decide which will suit you best. 

What’s a certified pre-owned vehicle?  

A certified pre-owned car, or CPO, is a particular kind of used car. Most used car transactions are on the up-and-up, but there are also plenty of people who a dishonest salesperson has scammed. This may involve receiving a used car with hidden defects that only become known once a sale has been finalized. A CPO car essentially represents the upper echelon of used vehicles, removing this issue by involving a trained mechanic. When a dealership or manufacturer sees that a used car meets specific criteria (usually related to condition and mileage), they might make that vehicle a part of their CPO program. This entails: 

Verified safety prior to purchase 

Before buying a CPO vehicle, you’ll have peace of mind knowing it’s been inspected by a mechanic. This means an expert has surveyed it and identified any flaws before the sale. If there are any safety concerns or glaring aesthetic issues, these will be corrected before you even get your new vehicle. This starkly contrasts CPO and used cars because used cars are typically not repaired before a sale. Furthermore, cars must meet the standards of a dealership or manufacturer even to be eligible for a CPO program. This means a CPO car is generally in better condition than a used one. 

CPO program perks 

When a used car is part of a CPO program, the process is a little fancier than simply trading car keys for cash. Many CPO programs provide benefits like roadside assistance and compensation for the gas money spent traveling to pick up your new vehicle. 

What is a used car? 

A used car can come from anyone. Used vehicle exchanges might be made through a dealership, but they can also be done from person to person. Because cars are so expensive, and this process isn’t always strictly regulated, it’s not uncommon for someone seeking a reliable ride to get scammed. However, not all used car purchases go badly. Many result in years of happy, satisfied driving with a vehicle the buyer can trust. Let’s get into some details about used car purchases so you know what to anticipate before getting into one. 

Lower prices 

CPO vehicles have added benefits, but these also come at an added cost. If you’re focused on budgeting and a CPO car would have you working outside of yours, then a used vehicle may work better for your needs. In no way are all, or even most, used cars dangerous to purchase. Talk to the people in your life, and you’ll probably hear more than one success story about driving a used car. If you’re worried about missing out on a mechanic’s inspection, remember that you can always do this independently. You can also request to test drive any used car you’re buying, so you get a firsthand chance to experience any mechanical problems. 

Wider variety

As mentioned earlier, only some cars qualify for a CPO program. This pickiness is great for fulfilling the purpose of these programs, but it also means that many excellent vehicles are left out. A simple scratch or two may cause a car to get rejected from a CPO program! Many drivers don’t mind cars with minor scratches, defects, or quirks as long as they can get them at a lower price. For those who value a good deal above all else, it’s very possible you’d fall in love with a used car. 

Shop Transwest 

If you’re on the outs with your current vehicle, it’s probably time to start searching for a replacement. At Transwest, we understand the importance of having a car you can trust. That’s why our lots are full of sturdy, reliable cars and trucks sold at unbeatable prices. Don’t believe us? Look at our online inventory, or stop by a Transwest location today.