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

Used cars on a lot

If you’re unsure of what the difference is between CPO vs. used vehicles, you’re not alone. Technically, certified pre-owned vehicles fall under the used vehicle category; however, there are important distinctions between used and certified pre-owned vehicles that drivers in the Nashville area should be aware of. Read on to learn more about used and certified pre-owned vehicles, with Music City Autoplex.


What to Know About Buying a Used Car

Used vehicles are simply vehicles that have been previously owned and driven. They vary in terms of model, year, mileage, and the number of previous owners. They cost less than both new vehicles and certified pre-owned vehicles and are not affected by depreciation. Hendersonville shoppers can browse our inventory of affordable used vehicles priced under $30k online now.

While a car with 100,000 miles or more may seem like a risky purchase, with routine maintenance and care, used vehicles can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. Even so, remember to:

  • Thoroughly inspect any used vehicle you’re considering and take it for a test drive before making an offer.
  • Discuss any mechanical or physical issues with the seller to ensure the vehicle is fit for your needs and is safe to drive.
  • Perform regular maintenance on your used vehicle.

What to Know About Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Car

Certified pre-owned vehicles have been previously owned and driven by other people and a part of a manufacturer’s CPO program. A used car must meet the following requirements to qualify as a certified pre-owned vehicle:

  • The vehicle must have a model year that is within five years of the current model year.
  • The odometer reading must be less than 80,000 miles, sometimes up to 100,000 miles.
  • The vehicle must pass a multi-point inspection.
  • Extended warranties and/or limited powertrain warranties must be offered upon purchase.

Certified pre-owned cars are typically newer models with less mileage. They often come at a higher price point than other used cars, but they’re still more affordable than a new car. If you’re looking for more updated features for your Clarksville commutes, you might want to consider buying a certified pre-owned vehicle.

Shop for Pre-Owned Vehicles at Music City Autoplex

If you’re still unsure of the differences between used and certified pre-owned vehicles, contact our experts for additional details. Once you’ve chosen between a CPO vs. used vehicle, schedule a visit to our showroom in Madison for a test drive. We look forward to helping you get into the car of your dreams!

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