While there are plenty of advantages in buying a new car, such as getting the latest technology, advanced safety features, and better fuel efficiency, purchasing a used car also has its upside, especially when it comes to price. The trick is in making sure you buy a certified used or pre-owned car
What Does “Certified Used Car” Really Mean?
Most dealerships, including ours, have used cars for sale. They all look great, but how can you tell which ones aren’t hiding costly repairs and will, instead, be reliable rides? You can reduce your risk by purchasing a certified used car from a brand dealership. Certified used cars:
Are relatively newer models with low mileage (usually less than 100,000 miles).- Are handpicked by the dealership.
- Have not been in a major collision.
- Have been thoroughly inspected by the dealer.
- Come with warranty extensions.
Most importantly, certified preowned cars have taken the first couple years’ depreciation hit, meaning they’ll be sold almost like new, but at a lower price. As you shop around, keep in mind that a truly certified used car is backed by the original manufacturer who typically sets rigorous resale standards. A certified used car may come at a higher price, but they’re also often available with better used car financing deals.
What a Certified Pre-Owned Label Reveals
The terms certified used or certified pre-owned are not just fancy names for used cars. They’re used to indicate a specific type of used car program. Nearly all the major car makers offer used cars through their own certified programs which are backed by the original manufacturers. The cars are sold and serviced at the same dealerships that sell the automaker’s new vehicles, which means warranty repairs can be handled at any associated dealership in the country.
Certified used car programs vary, with dealers using different inspection processes, certifying different aged vehicles, and covering various mileage figures. Some also charge a deductible for warranty claims. All in all, experts tend to agree that the manufacturer programs are better than other types of certifications. They point to the rigorous testing and benefits such as roadside assistance and loaner cars as positive reasons for purchasing a certified used vehicle.
The Bottom Line
A dealer’s certification doesn’t guarantee that mechanical issues won’t arise at some future date, so it can be helpful to have the used car you’re interested in inspected by a trusted third party. Overall, though, a certified pre-owned vehicle means peace of mind. The inspection, repairs, and warranty that come with buying the car save you the time and money you might have spent doing them all yourself. And you get to drive a near-new car with a solid warranty.
At Valley Automall, we have a wide selection of certified used cars for sale, and we’re sure one is right for you! Stop by today to take one for a test drive – we look forward to meeting you and answering any questions you have about certified used car programs.