When it comes to buying a used car, you have several options. One of those is to opt for a certified pre-owned car. For many shoppers, the use of the word "certified" is confusing. To help you decide if certified used cars are right for you, here is what you need to know.
Why Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Car?
A certified pre-owned car is basically one that has been inspected by the car dealership and meets certain criteria. The standards can vary by dealership, but usually includes a point-by-point inspection of the condition of the car. Once the car is thoroughly inspected, if it fails, the dealership will then decide if there is an issue that could be repaired to help it pass. If the repair is reasonable, the dealership will often take this step.
Buying a certified pre-owned car can be beneficial to you. They are usually late-model cars with fewer miles. The inspection by the dealership also works in your favor. Unless a car meets the standards of the dealership, they will not be marketed as certified pre-owned.
In addition to this, many of the cars still have a transferrable warranty for them. This can help you avoid the expense of major repairs just in case an issue does occur within the warranty period.
Certified pre-owned cars also are sold with a vehicle history report. You will have information, such as when oil changes and tire changes occurred, included in the report. This gives you an idea of how well the car was cared for before buying it.
What Are the Drawbacks?
There are some potential problems with buying a certified pre-owned car. One is the variation in the car dealerships' standards. Cars that would not pass at one dealership might meet another's standards. You can avoid any complications that could result from this by asking for a list of the standards.
Even though the cars come with a vehicle history report, sometimes that report only includes maintenance that was performed by the dealership. Information, such as an accident or flooding, could be left out of the report. You should have the car inspected by your own mechanic before buying.
It is important to note that even if a late-model car is not tagged with the certified label, it likely is in good condition, too. The car likely has the same mileage and wear and tear as one that does have the certified label.
Work closely with a sales professional at the used car dealership of your choice to find the car that is right for you.
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