One grey color 2022 Dodge Challenger is shown.

What Is A Certified Pre-Owned Used Car? And Are CPO Used Cars Worth It?

Two Dodge Challenger cars are shown.

Like most people, you probably think of used cars as less desirable than new cars. After all, who wouldn’t want to buy a brand new vehicle with no miles on it? However, there are many benefits to buying a used car instead of a new one. Certified pre-owned (CPO) used cars are one great option for those looking for a high-quality used car. But are CPO cars worth the extra money? Here’s what you need to know.

What is a CPO?

A CPO is a used car that goes through an extensive inspection process and repairs under strict expert supervision. CPO cars are essential “like new” cars but at a significantly lower price. To get certified, these vehicles must meet certain age and mileage requirements set by the car manufacturer.

The inspection process for a CPO car is comprehensive. Every certified pre-owned car must pass a strict multi-point inspection before going into the showroom. The inspection covers the interior and exterior of the vehicle, the engine, and other major mechanical components.

The interior inspection ensures no rips, tears, or stains on the upholstery and that all features (e.g., power windows, seat adjustments, etc.) are in working order.

The exterior inspection looks for scratches, dents, or other damage to the car’s body. The engine is inspected for performance and any potential issues.

The experts inspecting a car will repair or replace damaged parts to ensure the vehicle meets certified pre-owned standards.

The Benefits of a CPO Vehicle

Extended Warranty

These cars come with an extended warranty from the manufacturer. This warranty covers repairs for a certain amount of time or mileage, whichever comes first.

The warranty length varies by manufacturer, but it is often longer than the warranty on a new car.

Insurance

Since CPO vehicles undergo extensive inspections and repairs, insurers don’t hesitate to offer lower rates for certified pre-owned cars. This is because CPOs have a lower chance of requiring repairs, so insurance companies see them as less of a risk.

Better Performance than Other Used Cars

A certified pre-owned car must meet specific standards set by the manufacturer to be certified. This includes a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s condition and any necessary repairs or replacements. As a result, CPO vehicles tend to perform better than other used cars.

Better Resale Value

These cars have better resale value compared to regular used cars. Since CPO vehicles have a warranty and go through a detailed inspection process, they are more valuable than other used cars.

With a certified pre-owned car, you can get all of the benefits of a new car without the hefty price tag. The number of CPOssold in the U.S. has increased significantly over the past decade, and that trend will only continue as consumers become more and more aware of the benefits of buying these vehicles.

At Auffenburg CDJR of Herrin serving Bush, IL, we have an impressive inventory of certified vehicles from some of today’s most popular automakers. Browse our selection today to find your perfect vehicle.