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

Are you in the market for a used car? You’ve likely asked yourself, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned cars?”. It’s a common question that Spitzer Kia Mansfield gets from our Shelby customers. There are important differences between the two that may impact how you shop for used vehicles in the future. Learn more about CPO vs. used cars and whether or not they fit into your Ashland lifestyle with Spitzer Kia Mansfield.

Buying a Used Car

Used cars are vehicles that have been previously owned. They vary in make, model, year, mileage, and more, so most drivers are able to find something they like. Because of the variability, these vehicles tend to be more affordable than new or CPO vehicles. You can even find models priced under $13k.

It’s important to car shop at a location you trust. As you look at different Lexington dealerships to find your car, keep the following in mind: 

• Standard used cars are not required to have a full inspection before selling, but Spitzer Kia Mansfield wants to ensure that our customers have high-quality options to choose from. That’s why we hand-pick our used models and have them inspected by our certified service team. With that being said, we suggest taking additional precautions when purchasing from private dealers. 
• If you see any problems with the vehicle you’re interested in, be sure to raise the concern with the dealership or private seller. It’s okay to still purchase that car if you’re comfortable, but make sure to factor in the cost of repairs should you want to get something fixed or enhanced. 
• High-mileage cars can be a great option, especially if they were well-maintained by the previous owner(s). Don’t write off a car just because it has over 100,000 miles. 

Buying a CPO Car

CPO stands for certified pre-owned. This means that any car with the CPO label has passed a rigorous inspection by qualified technicians and is backed by manufacturer warranties. They are typically newer models with less mileage and therefore priced slightly above regular used vehicles. They are considered the “gold standard” of used cars because they are models that specifically meet the original manufacturer’s CPO program standards. For instance, to become a certified pre-owned Kia model, a used Kia must:

• Be five years old or newer
• Have less than 60,000 miles on the odometer
• Pass a 164-point quality inspection

Once a Kia has earned its CPO classification, drivers who choose to buy it will receive the remained of the limited powertrain warranty, 1-year/12,000-mile Platinum Coverage, 24-hour roadside assistance, and travel breakdown protection.

Compare CPO vs. Used Cars at Spitzer Kia Mansfield!

Now that you know the difference between used and certified pre-owned cars, you can determine which type of pre-owned car will best suit your needs and budget! Feel free to contact Spitzer Kia Mansfield with any questions, and our team will happily put you on the path to your next pre-owned vehicle in Mansfield.