Discover everything about certified pre-owned vehicles, including inspection standards, warranty options, pricing, and what to consider before making a purchase. Learn how CPO cars offer a reliable alternative to new vehicles with manufacturer-backed guarantees and thorough inspections, ensuring quality and value.

Complete Guide to Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles

When considering used cars, the term 'certified pre-owned' (CPO) often comes up. But what exactly qualifies a vehicle as CPO?

Unlike private sales or independent dealers, CPO cars undergo rigorous manufacturer inspections and come with official warranties. These vehicles are sold through authorized dealerships and usually have mileage limits.

Before buying a CPO vehicle, it's essential to understand some key details.

Pricing of Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
Many assume CPO cars are more costly than typical used cars. In reality, CPO models often cost about $700 less than comparable used cars. Brands like Jeep, Dodge, Subaru, Honda, Chrysler, Chevrolet, and Buick typically price their CPO vehicles reasonably.

Thorough Inspection of CPO Vehicles
Some dealerships may give superficial certifications after minimal cleaning, which doesn't meet rigorous standards. Always verify that the vehicle is manufacturer-certified, ensuring the warranty is fully backed by the original maker.

Different Manufacturer Certification Programs
Certification offerings vary: some include a 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty, or a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain coverage from the sale date. Others might provide only a three-month or 3,000-mile warranty.

Vehicle Age Isn't a Limiting Factor
CPO cars are seen as excellent alternatives to new vehicles. Many are two or three-year-old lease returns, while some brands also offer models up to six or seven years old with over 50,000 miles.

Certification Does Not Mean Perfection
Despite stringent checks, there's always a possibility of hidden issues or problems existing from the time the vehicle was new.