Want a Pre-Owned Car? Check Certified Options

Purchasing a car is not a small investment. When you spend your money on a car, you typically know that you are in it for the long haul and you need something you can depend on. Purchasing from a certified pre-owned (CPO) inventory is a great way to get a good deal while also having added reassurance of the vehicle’s state and value.

As you are navigating the market of purchasing a used car, definitely take the time to check out CPO options to get the best of both affordability and peace of mind. Check out our certified pre-owned selections at Toyota of Grand Rapids. We’re here to help you find the perfect car!

What Does Certified Pre-Owned Really Mean?

There are pre-owned cars that fall into different categories. The terms “used” or “pre-owned” simply refer to vehicles that have had at least one (sometimes more) prior owners before landing where they are now.

Certified pre-owned vehicles take a used vehicle that meets certain parameters and put it through a series of inspections, tests, and possibly even repairs to make it compatible with a high standard of reliability. Those inspections are typically set forth by the vehicle manufacturer.

For example, Toyota has two levels of certification that can be assigned. The vehicles must be within a certain age range and have less than a certain number of miles. They use highly detailed inspection processes, and the vehicle must meet every requirement to qualify.

Generally, when a vehicle is certified pre-owned, the manufacturer is guaranteeing that vehicle. It even typically comes with special extended warranties because of the certification.

The Benefits of Choosing Certified Pre-Owned

Why choose certified pre-owned rather than just a used car? For most people, the choice boils down to the added peace of mind you can get since the car has been carefully inspected and is certified by the manufacturer. It also comes with those added warranties we mentioned above.

The certification process offers some assurance that the vehicle meets specific standards of reliability and quality, which makes it a safer and smarter investment for most buyers. Check out these benefits.

Comprehensive Inspection Process

For a vehicle to become CPO, it has to meet very strict requirements. A multi-point inspection is completed in order to determine where it stands and if any repairs have to be made to meet the requirements. This inspection checks the engine, transmission, brakes, electrical systems, and more.

It’s not a random inspection, either. There are very specific checkpoints, and the inspection may only be completed by a trained technician. This ensures the car truly meets the manufacturer’s standards. This level of scrutiny will give you confidence in condition and performance details.

Extended Warranty Coverage

Photo from Toyota Camry gallery

Perhaps the greatest benefit of a certified pre-owned vehicle is its extended warranty. Because of its inspection and certification, the manufacturer provides a warranty that extends to cover the major components and systems of the car for a longer amount of time. That warranty is factory-backed and relates to the original warranty provisions. If your CPO vehicle were to need repairs unexpectedly within that warranty, it should cover the costs.

Vehicle History Knowledge

With a CPO, you get to know the history of the vehicle. In fact, most of the time this is provided to you as part of the CPO program. While the vehicle was already inspected and repaired as needed, it can still be beneficial to know where it came from and anything it may have been through.

These reports can indicate whether it was properly maintained and if it has a clean history.

Financing Possibilities

A lot of times, there are special financing options and possibilities with a certified pre-owned vehicle. This is because of the inspection and warranty provided. Many manufacturers will offer competitive financing with flexible terms to get low interest rates and payments that work closely with your needs.

The incentives often make it more affordable to finance a CPO than it might be to finance a normal used car.

Choosing a Great Certified Pre-Owned Car

Now, you know what to expect and what is covered, but let’s focus on finding a great car.

Look into the CPO Programs

You can learn a lot by looking at the different CPO programs out there. They all have unique requirements and may even have varying levels of certification. Get to know the different aspects and look for anything that specifically interests you.

Know Your Budget

Even with a certified pre-owned vehicle, you’re going to have a budget to stick to. If you already know your budget capability, that’s awesome! If you aren’t sure, take the time to sit down and map out the numbers. Determine your comfortable range for monthly payments and whether you can accommodate a down payment. Don’t forget to include maintenance expenses, insurance, registration, and the cost of fuel.

Choose a Vehicle That Meets Your Needs

Only you can decide what type of vehicle you need or want. Choose something that fits your needs and your preferences. Consider things like size, fuel efficiency, desired features, and your vehicle usage. You can always research various vehicles to get an idea of what you are looking for.

Negotiation and Completing the Purchase

Work with the dealership to negotiate the price and any financing terms. Be familiar with the fair market value, and don’t be afraid to request negotiation on the price tag. Don’t settle for a price you feel is too high or financing terms that don’t work for you.

Choose Certified Pre-Owned Today!

Certified pre-owned vehicles are a great option for buying a used car. They bring you a balance of peace of mind, reliability, and affordability too. You can count on extended warranties and a pre-completed inspection that passes significant markers, which says a lot about the vehicle quality before you take it home.

We can help you get into a CPO today. Come see us at Toyota of Grand Rapids and check out the options.