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

If you’re on the hunt for a budget-oriented used vehicle in the Birmingham area, you might be wondering, what is the difference between used and certified pre-owned vehicles? While both types are technically used vehicles, the “certified pre-owned” title comes with exclusive benefits that standard used vehicles do not, such as extended warranty coverage. There’s more to know about buying CPO vs. used vehicles, and Hendrick Chevrolet Hoover is here to help you make a smart choice! Compare them in greater detail, below. 

What to Know About Used Cars

As the name suggests, pre-owned cars have had at least one previous owner. When you’re exploring used car inventories near Vestavia Hills, you’ll notice a lot of variance in terms of makes, models, model years, and mileage. Some used vehicles have upwards of 100,000 miles and more than one previous owner, which often contributes to lower prices than certified pre-owned vehicles. If you’re hoping to find a vehicle for under $15k, it’s very likely going to be a standard used vehicle. 

Here are some more facts to know about used cars in Hoover:

• A dealership can purchase and sell any brand of a used vehicle, so if you’re looking for something very specific, you aren’t limited to what you can find at franchised dealerships for the brand in question. 
• OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) do not put up any barriers for used cars, such as an inspection before sale. But a reputable dealership like Hendrick Chevrolet Hoover will still take the time to inspect a used vehicle and recondition it to the manufacturer’s standards. Our used inventory has been appraised by our own team of experts and expertly reconditioned by our technicians because we want nothing but the highest quality, safest vehicles for our customers. 
• With the above being established, you should always approach private used car sales with caution. Request a Vehicle History Report or have the car inspected by a technician you trust before making an offer.
• If a used vehicle has some minor problems but you still intend to buy it, you should factor in the cost of repairs when you negotiate an offer. 
• Many used vehicles have higher mileage that is accompanied by a low price. If the vehicle has been properly maintained, it can very well be a smart purchase that will last many more miles on the Bessemer roads.

CPO vs. Used: What to Know About Certified Pre-Owned Cars

Like used vehicles, certified pre-owned vehicles have had previous owners. However, in order to qualify as certified pre-owned, these vehicles must meet numerous criteria put into place by the manufacturer. Additionally, they come with extra benefits and guarantees like manufacturer warranties and low mileage. You will only find certified pre-owned vehicles at franchised dealerships. 

What are the requirements and benefits of the Chevrolet Certified Pre-Owned Program? Take a look:

• 172-point inspection 
• From current 6 model years 
• Fewer than 75,000 miles
• Free Vehicle History Report
• Factory-Backed 6-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
• Factory-Backed 12-month/12,000-Mile Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty
• 3-Day/150-Mile Exchange Policy
• Roadside Assistance
• Scheduled Maintenance Program

Shop Pre-Owned at Hendrick Chevrolet Hoover!

After comparing CPO vs. used car options, do you feel better prepared to find your next vehicle in Hoover? If you still have questions, contact us or stop by Hendrick Chevrolet Hoover. We are here to help you find the right vehicle for the right price! You can even check out our pre-owned specials to save even more on your used or CPO Chevrolet.