What Does Certified Pre-Owned Mean?
Certified pre-owned, often shortened to simply “CPO,” is a designation of pre-owned (AKA used) vehicle that’s so much more than it may at first appear. Let’s break it all down:
- Certified means the vehicle has gone through a rigorous inspection and quality assurance process.
- Pre-owned vehicles are simply vehicles that are used, or have had prior owners.
- Most automakers, such as Chevy, Ford, and GMC, have their own unique CPO programs with unique requirements. What they all have in common is the peace-of-mind that comes along with warranty coverage.
Common CPO Restrictions & Rules
A certified pre-owned vehicle is a used vehicle that fits a series of requirements that distinguish it in quality from normal used vehicles. So, what are some of the restrictions on used vehicles that are in the running for certification?
Model Year
Vehicles must be under a certain age, in years.
Mileage
Each car must have fewer than a specified number of miles on the odometer.
Vehicle History Report
Usually, each car must have a thorough and satisfactory vehicle history report, proving that the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual was followed.
Inspection
A careful multipoint inspection is often done to ensure that the vehicle in question lives up to quality standards.
Used vs. Certified Pre-Owned vs. New Vehicles
- Used Vehicles: Are often better-priced than new vehicles, but offer no warranty protection and are sold in “as-is” condition with no warranty.
- Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: A great middle ground, with amenities for a lower price than in a new vehicle, but with more quality assurance and vehicle history knowledge than with a normal used vehicle.
- New Vehicles: Offer you the latest technologies and the peace of mind that comes with a brand-new model.
Shop Our CPO Inventory & Apply for Financing Now!
We’ve got a whole bunch of impressively-equipped and amazingly-priced used and CPO vehicles for sale! Make sure to check out what we’ve got in-stock, and while you’re at it, apply for financing!