
Certified pre-owned (CPO) cars are marketed as excellent used cars and are one of the best options for budget-conscious and value-conscious buyers. But a CPO vehicle is still pre-owned; does the classification have any real meaning? Or is it priced higher just because it “seems better,” like most luxury clothing?
Here we will explore some pros and cons of buying a certified pre-owned car.
Pros:
It gives peace of mind:
You feel more secure when you buy a certified used vehicle. Before certification, certified automobiles undergo a thorough inspection. While the dealer or private group programs don’t provide a factory sponsorship, most auto manufacturers offer a certification program with a factory guarantee. Certain websites offer a thorough car history record, including previous ownership, accidents, and more.
Certified cars often have low mileage:
Many certified used cars have low mileage because they are used only for a few years. Certified used vehicles also tend to come from trade-ins of people buying new cars. These cars usually have fewer than 60,000 miles on them.
They come with extended warranties:
When you buy a certified used car, you get an extended warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty length varies by manufacturer, but it’s typically for seven years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Certified used cars also come with 24-hour roadside assistance.
Certified used cars offer financing options:
You may qualify for special financing rates if you finance a certified used car through the dealership. These rates are usually lower than those you’d get from a bank or credit union.
Cons:
You get less variety of cars:
The selection of certified used cars is usually smaller than that of regular used cars. That’s because most people who trade their vehicle for a new one don’t qualify for the certification program.
Certified used cars are more expensive than non-certified used cars:
A certified pre-owned vehicle almost always costs more than an equivalent regular used car. In most instances, you may anticipate a premium of between $1,000 and $2,000, and that extra cost includes some additional benefits. That is far less than the variation in trim packages for the same vehicle and less than certain upgrades like towing packages and specialized off-road gear.
So, are certified pre-owned cars actually worth the premium? It depends. If you’re worried about repairs and want peace of mind with an extended warranty, then a certified pre-owned vehicle might be the right choice. But if you’re not concerned about repairs and you’re comfortable with a little more risk, then you might be able to purchase a non-certified used car. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities.
If you are hunting for your dream Mazda, visit Cutter Mazda Waipahu serving Waipahu, HI. We have a large inventory of certified pre-owned Mazda models and would be happy to help you pick the right one for your requirements.


