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

When you’re shopping for a pre-owned car in Parker or Bullhead City, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the variety. Knowing what the difference is between used and certified pre-owned vehicles can help you narrow down your options. While any pre-owned car is a used car, a certified pre-owned car—CPO for short—must meet manufacturer-set criteria that ensure you’ll get a like-new car for less money. Anderson Chrysler has the details about the difference between CPO vs. used models. Which one will you choose?

Used Car Buying: What You Need to Know

Used cars have been owned previously and vary considerably in make, model, year, mileage, and more. Because of these variances, and the fact that they’ve had previous owners, they’re more affordable than new and CPO vehicles. Many Kingman car shoppers will be pleased to learn that we have a selection of under-$20k used models, giving drivers plenty of budget-friendly options. 

Another area where used cars vary is mileage. Although it may seem like a used car with 100,000 miles is a risk you shouldn’t take, the truth is many vehicles can last for hundreds of thousands of miles with regular (documented) service. In any case, when you’re shopping for a new-to-you car, keep the following in mind: 

• Although OEMs don’t require that standard used cars be inspected before sale, Anderson Chrysler wants to make sure our customers get the highest value for their dollar. We hand-pick our used models. That being said, you should navigate a private sale with extra caution. Private sellers don’t have the reputation of a well-established dealership. 
• You should discuss any vehicle issues that you notice — either with the dealership or private seller. If you plan to purchase the car, even though it has a few problems, that’s 100% your choice — just make sure you factor money for the repairs into your shopping budget. 
• With proper care and maintenance, some vehicles can last upwards of 200,000 miles. High-mileage used cars aren’t always bad options, especially if you’re on a strict budget. 

Buying a CPO Car: What You Need to Know

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles have had previous owners, but they aren’t your standard used cars that you see on used car lots. They’re thoroughly inspected pre-owned vehicles that are backed by manufacturer warranties and have passed a rigorous inspection completed by a certified technician. They’re a gold standard of used cars and only models that meet the OEM’s CPO program standards earn the title. For example, the requirements for a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAMCPO model include the following: 

• Pass a 125-point inspection
• Reconditioned using only Mopar parts
• Late model with reasonable mileage

Certified used cars are usually newer models with less mileage. They typically come at a higher price than used cars, but they’re still more affordable than a new car. If you’re looking for more updated features for your commutes, then you might want to buy a certified pre-owned vehicle.

Shop for Pre-Owned Vehicles at Anderson Chrysler

Once you’ve decided between a CPO vs. a used vehicle, shop the selection at Anderson Chrysler, where you’ll find both CDJR CPO models and a variety of other makes and models in our expansive used vehicle inventory. No matter which classification of pre-owned vehicle you choose, you can save when you shop our used car deals. Still not sure which type of used car is best for you and your budget? Contact us or visit our showroom today. Our sales and finance associates are ready to help you.