Used Vs. Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle: Which is the Better Choice for You

If you want to save money on a car but want reliability, try certified pre-owned vehicles. These cars come with warranties from the manufacturer and undergo rigorous inspections before being sold. While they may carry a slightly higher price tag than regular used cars, they remain significantly less expensive than new ones.

Let's examine certified pre-owned cars in more detail and see if they meet your needs.

What is a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

A certified pre-owned vehicle is a used car that has been inspected, refurbished, and certified by the manufacturer or a dealership to meet specific standards. Typically, automakers offer certified pre-owned programs for relatively new vehicles, often between one to five years old, and with lower mileage. The certification process usually includes a thorough multi-point inspection that covers key areas like engine performance, safety features, and the vehicle's exterior and interior condition. Any issues found during the inspection are addressed before the car is certified for resale.

In addition to the inspection, certified pre-owned vehicles come with extended warranties, which can include powertrain coverage, bumper-to-bumper warranties, and even roadside assistance. These warranties are backed by the manufacturer, offering buyers more peace of mind compared to buying a standard used car.

What is a Used Vehicle?

A used vehicle is any car that has been previously owned, regardless of age, mileage, or condition. Unlike certified pre-owned cars, used cars are sold without a standardized inspection or warranty from the manufacturer, although some dealerships may provide their own limited warranty or offer optional service plans. Used vehicles range from older models with high mileage to relatively new cars, and the quality can vary significantly based on how well the car was maintained by previous owners.

The lack of certification and warranty can make used cars a more budget-friendly option, but they also come with a higher level of risk, as their history might not be as clear. Without a comprehensive inspection or certification, it's harder to gauge a used vehicle's true condition.

Key Differences Between Certified Pre-Owned and Used Vehicles

1. Quality Assurance:
• Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: They undergo a detailed inspection, often by the manufacturer, ensuring the vehicle is in good condition. This reduces the likelihood of inheriting major issues.
• Used Vehicles: No formal inspection is required, and the vehicle’s condition can vary greatly. Buyers might not know about hidden issues unless a third-party inspection is performed.
2. Warranty and Coverage:
• Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: Come with a manufacturer-backed warranty, which offers protection and peace of mind, often covering repair costs for several years or tens of thousands of miles.
• Used Vehicles: Typically do not come with a warranty, although some dealerships offer their own limited warranties. Buyers often have to purchase additional protection plans separately if desired.
3. Price:
• Certified pre-owned Vehicles: Tend to be more expensive due to the certification process, the warranty, and the generally newer age of the vehicle. They may be priced higher than similar used cars.
• Used Vehicles: Usually less expensive than certified pre-owned vehicles, making them a more affordable option. However, the lower price might come at the cost of potential repairs or issues down the road.
4. Vehicle History:
• Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: Since certified pre-owned cars come from dealerships, they are often required to have clean titles, and their history is thoroughly checked. This gives buyers more confidence in the vehicle’s background.
• Used Vehicles: A used car may have a complicated history, including past accidents, multiple owners, or even a salvage title. Buyers need to research the vehicle’s history, often through services like Carfax or AutoCheck.
5. Availability:
• Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles: These cars are usually only available through authorized dealerships of the brand, which may limit choices based on the make and model you're interested in.
• Used Vehicles: Can be found in a wider range of places, including private sellers, independent dealerships, or online marketplaces, giving buyers a broader selection

Which Option is Better for You?

The decision between a certified pre-owned and a used vehicle depends largely on your priorities:

• If you prioritize peace of mind, warranty coverage, and a vehicle that has been thoroughly inspected, a certified pre-owned vehicle may be the best choice despite its higher price tag.
• If you are on a tight budget or are willing to take more risk for potential savings, a used car might be the right option, provided you are ready to conduct your own research and possibly invest in additional inspections or warranties.

Ultimately, both options offer advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your preferences, budget, and comfort with potential risks.

Explore Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles at Briggs Subaru of Topeka

Are you interested in certified pre-owned vehicles in Topeka, KS? Swing by Briggs Subaru of Topeka today. Check out our wide selection of certified pre-owned Subaru models, and then go for a test drive. If you need assistance, our friendly staff can help.