Certified v Used: What’s the Difference?
When choosing to buy a used vehicle instead of a new one, you have to make a choice: should you buy a certified pre-owned (CPO) model, or go for a traditional used vehicle? Many car buyers may not know the difference between a used and certified pre-owned vehicle. In order to make the best decision, here are the differences between both.
GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR
There is the old saying, “you get what you pay for.” That’s applicable when purchasing a used vehicle too. Typically, a CPO vehicle might be priced a bit higher but it will primarily have a multi-point inspection and warranty coverage directly from the manufacturer. Non-certified models will cost less, but you won’t get the reassurance of knowing it’s in good working order nor will it have the protection of a factory warranty.
Being a GM dealer, Landers Chevrolet Cadillac of Joplin offers such warranties but to be eligible all pre-owned vehicles have to be less than six years old, have fewer than 75,000 miles, and have a clean title. Here are the warranties and perks available when buying a CPO vehicle:
- Factory-Backed Six-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
- Factory-Backed 12-month/12,000-Mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty
- Roadside Assistance
- Courtesy Transportation
- Three-Day/150-Mile Exchange Policy
- Scheduled Maintenance Program
- Limited OnStar Trial
- SiriusXM® Three-Month Trial Subscription
- Free Vehicle History Report
- 172-Point Inspection
172-POINT INSPECTION
You can never be too cautious when considering a used vehicle certifiable. At Lander Chevrolet Cadillac, we hold rigid standards when it comes to vehicle inspection. We do a 172-point inspection examining every inch, nook, and cranny, bolt and feature option of the prospective certified used vehicle. Here are some of the components we check out before you drive away happy.
- Functionality: Make sure every feature is working properly from OnStar pre-activation and Key-fob to airbags, spare tire, and tools.
- Maintenance: All engine and mechanical components are examined to make sure they are working properly. Engine fluid levels will be topped off and engine belts are examined for fatigue.
- Exterior Appearance: We thoroughly go over the exterior of the used vehicle to check for dents and dings in the body panels, ensure the windows and windshield are not fractured or crack and mirrors are operating properly.
- Under the Vehicle: Every part of the vehicle’s wheels are inspected, which includes the calipers, drums, brake pads, and the quality of the tires. The suspension is tested as well as the drivetrain. The exhaust system is inspected for any potential leaks or wear.
- Interior: The interior is crucial because that is the driver and passenger’s comfort zone. The instrument cluster and dash are checked, along with the seat controls and steering wheel. The air conditioner and heater components are checked to make sure they are working properly. Any audio and infotainment features are tested for operational performance.
Even though buying a non-certified used vehicle is a feasible and economical option, there is still the uncertainty of not getting exactly what you paid for. When considering buying a certified pre-owned vehicle you are not only buying guaranteed quality but making an investment for yourself whenever you trade-in that certified pre-owned vehicle later on.
We hope this information helps you in your decision-making process when out shopping for a reliable used vehicle. Never forget, Landers Chevrolet Cadillac in Joplin, MO is always here to assist you. We have a solid selection of new Chevys and Cadillacs as well as great used vehicles which you can browse on our website.
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