Certified Pre-owned vs Used Cars
When looking for a used car, deciding whether it’s better to buy a certified pre-owned (CPO) or a used car is key. At Thornhill Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we put together this Certified Pre-owned vs used cars guide to provide valuable insights into the distinctions between these options and what might be more convenient for your needs and lifestyle as a driver near Logan, McConnell, and Henlawson, WV.
The difference between used cars and Certified Pre-Owned vehicles extends beyond their pre-owned status. While both categories represent previously owned vehicles, CPO cars undergo a more rigorous inspection and refurbishment process, elevating them to a higher standard of quality and reliability.
Furthermore, CPO vehicles usually have a mileage limit, meaning you are more likely to find newer models with lower mileage in the certified pre-owned category. This certification also typically involves further benefits such as warranties or roadside assistance, providing additional layers of assurance for prospective buyers.
Quality and Inspections
Certified Pre-Owned vehicles stand out for their commitment to quality through comprehensive inspections. The dealer meticulously examines the vehicle and, upon declaring it a certified pre-owned vehicle, refurbishes it to meet the standards set by the CPO program. The number of inspection points may vary among automakers, but the essence is that passing the inspection ensures the car's condition is robust enough for the carmaker to provide warranty coverage for the new owner.
When it comes to buying a used car, there are often two options available: certified pre-owned (CPO) and non-CPO. While CPO cars are often considered more reliable due to their rigorous inspection process, non-CPO cars may still be inspected before being sold. However, it's important to note that the inspection process for non-CPO cars may not be as thorough as that of CPO cars, which could potentially lead to unforeseen issues down the road.
One of the significant advantages of choosing a CPO vehicle is the inclusion of a manufacturer-backed warranty. While the coverage levels may vary among CPO programs, they all offer a degree of protection typically absent in non-CPO used cars. Buyers can opt for extended warranty coverage for non-CPO models, but this often comes at an additional cost.
CPO warranties, however, may be more limited in the components they cover compared to the comprehensive bumper-to-bumper new car warranty. Variations in deductibles, coverage duration, and conditions tied to the original in-service date or the purchase date necessitate careful scrutiny by potential buyers. Importantly, genuine factory-certified used cars are backed by their original manufacturers, offering the convenience of warranty service at any franchised new car dealership.
Non-CPO used car warranties, if present, usually cover issues within the vehicle's original limited warranty.
Cost Considerations
CPO cars, with their added warranties and inspection processes, generally command a premium in the market. This premium is justified by the assurance of quality and the peace of mind that accompanies a CPO purchase.
The cost difference reflects not only the added benefits but also the expenses incurred by dealerships in inspecting and refurbishing CPO vehicles. Moreover, CPO cars are exclusively available at franchised new car dealerships, which often price used cars higher than independent used car lots and private-party sellers.
Thornhill CDJR, or visit our showroom near Logan, McConnell, and Henlawson, West Virginia. Reach out to our friendly specialists or navigate our inventory online. Contact us today!
Arriving in style isn't just an option. It's a necessity. And substance? We've got plenty. Every Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, and RAM Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle (CPOV) has to pass our stringent certification process guaranteeing that only the finest vehicles get certified.
CPO Base
- 2020-2025 w/ less then 75K Miles
- Warranty:
- 7 years from date vehicle was originally sold OR/ 100,000 miles on odometer (whichever comes first)
- Covers repair or replacement of most major powertrain components, including transmission, engine and driveline
- 3 Month / 3K Mile Max Care Warranty (whichever comes first)
- Maximum Care covers most vehicle components (over 5,000)
- A deductible applies per covered repair visit.
CPO GO
- 2015-2025 w / less the 120K miles
- Warranty:
- 3 Month / 3K Mile Max Care Warranty (whichever comes first)
- Maximum Care covers most vehicle components (over 5,000)
- Covers repair or replacement of most major powertrain components, including transmission, engine and driveline
- A deductible applies per covered repair visit.
Warranty Information
Driving one of our Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles means you're well taken care of, on the road and off.
- 3-Month/3,000-Mile Maximum Care Warranty(1)
- 7-Year/100,000 Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty (2, 3)
125-Point Inspection
To know the exact condition of your vehicle, we put 'em to the test with a rigorous 125-point inspection.
- Qualification Standards
- Ownership Materials
- Mechanical Standards
- Maintenance Standards
- Appearance Standards
- Detail Standards
CARFAX® Vehicle History Report
Roadside Coverage
Towing/Roadside Assistance(4)
- 24-hour "Sign and Go" (up to $100 per occurrence) includes:
- Flat-tire service (with your good spare)
- Gas delivery (up to two gallons)
- Battery-jump assistance
- Lockout service (i.e., keys locked in car, frozen lock, etc.)
- Towing service (if vehicle is inoperative)
Car Rental Allowance(5)
- Up to $35 per day ($175 maximum per occurrence)
(1) 3-Months/3,000-Miles (whichever comes first). Maximum Care Limited Warranty runs from the date of sale of the vehicle or at the expiration of the 3/36 Basic Warranty. For more details and a copy of the limited warranties, see dealer or call 1-800-677-5782.
(2) 7-Years/100,000-Miles (whichever comes first); Powertrain Limited Warranty runs from the date vehicle was sold as new. A deductible may apply. See dealer for details.
(3) Eligible vehicles include Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and RAM vehicles with an active 3-Month/3,000-Mile Maximum Care Limited Warranty, 7-Year/100,000-Mile CPOV Powertrain Limited Warranty with a maximum of 74,999 miles at the time of purchase. A deductible may apply. For more details and a copy of the limited warranties, see your dealer or call 1-800-677-5782. Warranty is non-transferable; exceptions apply; see dealer for details.
(4) Administered by Cross Country Motor Club, Inc., Medford, MA 02155. You must call 1-800-521-2779 for prior authorization to receive these benefits. (5) With Rental Car Coverage, Chrysler Group LLC will reimburse you up to $35 per day for a rental vehicle ($175 maximum per occurrence) any time if: A) a component fails and the component is covered by the 7-Year/100,000-Mile CPOV Powertrain Limited Warranty, B) any coverage is under the New Vehicle Basic Limited Warranty, C) the vehicle is inoperable because of the failure and D) repairs take overnight. Car Rental Allowance coverage is not provided where loaner vehicle coverage is provided by the warranty or the dealer.
