When shopping for a used car, you’ll likely come across the term “certified pre-owned” (CPO). But what does it mean? Is a CPO car worth the extra money? In this post, Lee Nissan of Panama City will break down everything you need to know about CPO cars—including what qualifies a vehicle as being “certified.” We’ll also dive into the pros & cons of buying a CPO car so you can decide if it’s the right option.
A certified pre-owned car is a vehicle inspected by the manufacturer and comes with an extended warranty. To be certified, the ride must pass a rigorous inspection process and meet certain criteria set forth by the manufacturer.
One thing to recall is that just because a car is certified doesn’t mean it’s new. CPO cars are still pre-owned, which may have some wear and tear. However, you can be assured that a CPO car has been thoroughly inspected and is in good condition.
While CPO cars come with many benefits, there are also potential problems you should be aware of before making your purchase.
Some people have reported that the inspection process for CPO cars is not as thorough as it should be. This means that there could be hidden damage that you’re not aware of.
Another problem with CPO cars is that they may be overpriced. Because the warranty is already included in the price, dealers may try to charge more than the car is worth. Be sure to research and know the car’s fair market value before you make your purchase.
There are several benefits to buying a certified pre-owned car. One of the biggest benefits is that you will have peace of mind knowing that your car has been thoroughly inspected by the manufacturer and is backed by an extended warranty.
CPO cars also tend to have lower interest rates and may come with additional perks such as free roadside assistance. Another benefit of buying a CPO car is that you often find late-model vehicles with relatively low mileage.
Of course, buying a CPO car also has some potential drawbacks. One of the biggest disadvantages is that CPO cars can be more expensive than non-certified used cars.
Another potential drawback is that the selection of CPO cars may be limited, especially if you’re looking for a specific make or model.
So, should you buy a certified pre-owned car? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you’re darting for peace of mind and willing to pay a bit extra for it, then a CPO car may be the right choice.
However, suppose you’re on a tight budget or can’t find the specific make and model you’re looking for. In that situation, you may want to think about a non-certified used car instead.
Lee Nissan of Panama City, serving Lower Grand Lagoon, FL, can help you decide if a CPO car is right for you. We have a wide selection of certified and regularly used cars, so we’re sure to have the perfect vehicle for your needs and budget.
Contact us today or stop by our dealership to learn more and take a test drive