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

Shopping for a pre-owned vehicle and wondering, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” Both “used” and “certified pre-owned” cars are technically used, but a used car isn’t always CPO. We at Mercedes-Benz of Chandler think it’s important for Phoenix to understand the difference before choosing a vehicle. Compare CPO vs. used vehicles below to decide which is right for you!

Used Cars: What You Need to Know

Used vehicles are cars that have been owned and driven by one or more owners. These vehicles can be any make, model, or year, and vary when it comes to mileage and number of owners. This is why they’re less expensive than new cars, and you can find a wide selection of used cars priced under $30K right here on our lot. Because a previous owner would’ve likely taken the initial value depreciation hit for you, you won’t have to worry about a used car losing a chunk of its value the moment you leave the dealership. Due to their age, many used cars have 100,000+ miles on their odometers. Some drivers might look at this as a red flag, but the truth is that as long as a vehicle gets proper maintenance, it can last hundreds of thousands of miles. So, if you’re shopping for a used car, be sure to do your homework. Keep the following tips in mind:

• If you’re considering a used vehicle, make sure you inspect it and take it for a test drive to identify any problems or areas of improvement.
• Mention any issues you notice to the dealer or seller. It’s also important to get a vehicle history report, which outlines any accidents or environmental damage like flooding.
• Again, with proper maintenance and repairs, some vehicles can last well over 100,000 miles. So, don’t necessarily write off a vehicle that’s in great shape just because it has a lot of miles on its odometer.

CPO Cars: What You Need to Know

Certified pre-owned vehicles are the gold standard for used-car buying. Although these vehicles are used, they’re evaluated for reliability, offering manufacturer warranties and mileage and age limitations. Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, for example, must meet the following requirements:

• Rigorous vehicle inspection
• Must be less than six years old with fewer than 75,000 miles on the odometer
• CARFAX® Vehicle History Report

Compare CPO vs. Used Cars at Mercedes-Benz of Chandler!

Now that you know the answer to the question, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned,” explore your options at Mercedes-Benz of Chandler. From shopping for the right car to apply for financing, our team will walk you through every step of the car buying process. Contact us with any other questions you may have, such as, “Can you trade-in a financed car?”