What is The Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned?

Have you wondered “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned vehicles?” Actually a lot of Middlesex County and Ocean County have asked us about the difference between CPO vs. used cars.

At Carpoint Auto Group, we’ve been offering used and certified pre-owned vehicles, including even a section for used cars under $10k. For those who want to know what is the difference between used and certified pre-owned vehicles, read on below!

Used Car Buying: What You Need to Know

Remember in comparing CPO vs. used cars, we need to start with some definitions.

A used car is those that have been previously owned and will vary in make, model year, mileage, etc. Due to all these aspects, these options are more affordable than new and certified pre-owned vehicles. As we indicated, Carpoint Auto Group even has a section dedicated to under $10k used models, providing you with many budget-friendly options.

Another area where a used car can vary is their mileage. Some Hudson County buyers may be worried about a used car with 100,000 miles. In truth, many vehicles can last for hundreds of thousands of miles when they get regularly documented service. For those considering a used, but newish, vehicle, remember the following:

• While OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) may not require used cars to be inspected before sale, Carpoint Auto Group wants to make sure that our South River customers get the best value. We hand-pick all of our used vehicles. Remember it’s better to go through a dealership than the private seller with no established reputation.
• If there’s any vehicle issues you might notice, whether at the dealership or a private seller, discuss them openly. When you plan to buy a used vehicle that has a few problems, that’s your decision. Any repairs you’re considering will be factored into your shopping budget.
• With proper service and maintenance, many vehicles can last upwards of 200,000 miles. High mileage used cars aren’t always a bad choice, especially if you’re on a strict budget and need one shortly.

Buying a CPO Car: What You Need to Know

In contrast, Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles also have had previous owners, yet they’re much different used cars than seen at dealership lots. CPO vehicles have been thoroughly inspected and are backed by manufacturer warranties, passing a rigorous inspection, completed by a certified on-site technician.

Considering the Gold Standard of used cars, Certified pre-owned vehicles must meet the OEM’s existing CPO program to get that title. Among the primary requirements for a Certified pre-owned vehicle include:

• Model year is within five years of the current model year.
• Generally less than 80,000 miles, sometimes up to 100,000 miles.
• A multi-point inspection.
• Offered with extended warranties and/or limited powertrain warranties.

Certified pre-owned vehicles are usually newer vehicles with far less mileage. They will have a higher price than more used vehicles, but are still far more affordable than most used cars. For those considering a vehicle with upgraded features for Ocean County commutes, a certified pre-owned car can be the right budget-friendly option.

Shop For Pre-Owned Vehicles at Carpoint Auto Group in South River

As we’ve summed up “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned vehicles?,” find your next car with Carpoint Auto Group. If you have more questions about used car purchasing, read our handy guide on what to look for used car wise. Explore our wide inventory of vehicles with Carpoint Auto Group in South River. See you shortly!