What’s the Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned?

As you look for an affordable car, truck, or SUV to go in your Clear Lake garage, you’ve probably seen the terms “used vehicle” or “certified pre-owned (CPO)” thrown around. Investing in either of these types of vehicles gives you a quality car, truck, or SUV with plenty of good years left in it when you buy from us.

However, there are key differences between used and certified pre-owned vehicles for sale as you shop for the right one. Find out more in our guide to CPO vs. used vehicles.

What’s the Main Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles?

The main difference between used and certified pre-owned vehicles for sale on our lot is that CPO vehicles have been brought up to like-new condition by factory-trained technicians. Only auto dealerships that have relationships with manufacturers can sell CPO vehicles. For example, a certified pre-owned RAM 1500 can only be marketed and sold as such from an authorized RAM dealer like Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake.

CPO vs. Used: Purchasing a Used Vehicle

Used cars, trucks, or SUVs on our lot vary widely in terms of condition, make, model, and year. Even though we are a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, FIAT, Wagoneer dealer, we have a wide selection of used vehicles from other manufacturers that we get from trade-ins. Many Houston car shoppers will be pleased to learn that we have a selection of under-$20k used models, giving you plenty of budget-friendly options. 

Used cars also vary in terms of mileage. However, you need to know that used vehicles made after 2010 are designed to last more than 200,000 miles when properly cared for with regular service and maintenance.

When you look at used vehicles on our lot in Webster, understand these things:

• Although OEMs don’t require that standard used cars be inspected before sale, Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake wants to make sure our customers get the highest value for their dollar. We hand-pick our used models as quality trade-ins. Private sellers and used car dealers not affiliated with particular manufacturers don’t have the same reputation as a well-established dealership. 
• You should discuss any vehicle issues that you notice just to make sure you factor money for the repairs into your shopping budget. That can also give you some negotiating power.
• High-mileage used cars aren’t always bad options, especially if you’re on a strict budget. Again, look for models made after 2010, and do your research as to the most reliable used vehicles out there!

CPO vs. Used: Buying a CPO Car

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles have had previous owners, typically just one. They’re thoroughly inspected pre-owned vehicles that are backed by manufacturer warranties and have passed a rigorous inspection completed by a certified, factory-trained technician. They’re a gold standard of used cars. Only models that meet the OEM’s CPO program standards earn the title of a certified pre-owned vehicle. 

Any CPO model on our lot at Big Star Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat Clear Lake has these standards:

• Within five years of the current model year
• Fewer than 75,000 miles on the odometer
• 125-point inspection performed by factory-trained technicians
• Worn parts replaced by OEM (Mopar) parts to make the vehicle in as close to like-new condition as possible
• 5-Year/100,000-Mile Limited Warranty, 3-Month/3,000-Mile Maximum Care Limited Warranty covering 5,000 vehicle components combined with a 7-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
• Roadside assistance
• CARFAX report

As you can see, certified used cars are usually newer models with less mileage. They typically come at a higher price than used cars, but they’re still more affordable than a new car. If you want a like-new vehicle without paying a new vehicle price, a CPO car, truck, or SUV is for you!

Shop for CPO Pre-Owned Vehicles for Sale in Webster

Now that we’ve answered, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?”, it’s time to explore our CPO and used vehicle for sale. Contact us to schedule a test drive with our team. One of our used vehicles is perfect for your Pearland drives!