Certified pre-owned cars can be a great option for budget-minded drivers. A CPO program offers the benefits of a new car warranty and often includes roadside assistance and other perks. But is a certified pre-owned car right for you?
In this blog post, Mike Patton Ford Lincoln will look at what CPO programs are all about and help you decide if buying a CPO vehicle is the right choice.
What Are Certified Pre-Owned Cars?
These vehicles are typically late-model used vehicles that have been inspected, reconditioned, and certified by the manufacturer. To be certified, a car must meet certain criteria the manufacturer sets.
These requirements can vary from brand to brand, but they usually include:
- Age and mileage limits: Most CPO programs limit the age of the vehicle to seven years or less and the mileage to 100,000 miles or less.
- Length of the warranty: Many CPO plans include the remaining manufacturer warranty and an extra “comprehensive” warranty of 12,000 miles or 12 months. This is comparable to a bumper-to-bumper warranty, except that it excludes “wear” parts like tires and windshield wipers. Some plans provide limitless miles for an additional year.
- Inspection process: Certified pre-owned cars must be thoroughly inspected before selling them.
So, should you buy a certified pre-owned car? Here are a few things to consider:
- Certified pre-owned cars are more expensive than non-certified used cars: You are paying for the warranty and the associated peace of mind.
- You may be able to find a nearly new car for less: Certified pre-owned cars are typically new and have low mileage. But you can often find non-certified used cars that also meet these criteria.
- You might get a lemon: Even with a rigorous inspection process, there’s always a chance you could end up with a lemon.
- Certified pre-owned cars may have a limited selection: Certified pre-owned cars are often in high demand, so you may have to act fast when you find one you like.
- Certified pre-owned cars come with extended warranties and other perks: Certified pre-owned cars often come with extended warranties and other perks, such as free maintenance, that can save you money in the long run.
Buying A CPO Vehicle:
1. Negotiate your best deal:
Certified pre-owned cars usually carry a higher price tag than non-certified used cars, so it’s important to negotiate the best deal possible.
2. Get a vehicle history report:
Be sure to get a vehicle history report (VHR) on any certified pre-owned car you’re considering. This history report will tell you if the vehicle has been in an accident or other major issues.
3. Do your research:
If you’re considering buying a certified pre-owned vehicle, be sure to do your research to find the best deal. You may be able to find a great car at a lower price if you’re willing to forgo the extended warranty and other perks.
Consult with the experts before making a purchase. Visit Mike Patton Ford Lincoln serving Corinth, GA. We will guide you through the CPO vehicle buying process and answer any questions you may have.
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