If you're choosing to buy a used car instead of a new one, you will have another important decision to make: should you buy a certified pre-owned (CPO) car or go for a traditional used car?
Let’s look at the pros and cons of certified pre-owned cars and used cars, and you can choose which option is best suited for you.
What is the difference between a certified pre-owned car and a used car?
A used car is any car that has had previous owners and is being resold through private sellers, classified, or local dealers without any major vehicle inspection by an expert. A certified pre-owned (CPO), on the other hand, is a used car that has been thoroughly inspected (pre-purchase inspection) and refurbished to perfection by the experts. Also, CPOs come with a warranty to help buyers overcome unforeseen maintenance costs.
You can find a used car at any classified or dealer, but only the organized pre-owned auto companies like us sell Certified Pre-owned Cars.
Both certified pre-owned and used cars have their pros and cons. Typically, a Certified Pre-owned car might cost higher than a regular used car. Still, they have perks similar to a new car – a multi-point pre-purchase technical inspection, complete refurbishment, and warranty coverage in case of repairs.
Non-certified models or traditional used cars will likely cost less, but you won't get the reassurance of knowing it's in good working condition nor any warranty.
What Is a Certified Pre-Owned Car?
A certified pre-owned car is a vehicle sold by the same brand or organized pre-owned auto firms like us. They're generally sparingly used, accident-free, low-run cars that are only a few years old.
While each automaker’s / brand has specific requirements in certifying their vehicles, CPO cars in common have to be below a certain age and mileage, have service records showing they have been well-maintained, plus have the ability to pass a rigorous inspection process - in case of CARS24, a 140 checkpoint quality test.
Certification of Pre-owned Cars?
Every brand/automaker has its own requirements for a vehicle to be certified pre-owned. At CARS24, our highly qualified technicians check everything from the engine, brakes, and suspension to the electrics, infotainment, and more. We use the latest technology to diagnose any faults or issues that aren’t visible. We ensure every car we procure passes our stringent 140 point quality check test.
The cars are then refurbished to perfection at our state of art Refurbishment center by spending an average of Rs.20,000. We do our best to fix any cosmetic imperfections and ensure everything is in perfect working order to ensure every car we deliver is as good as new!
Non-CPO Used Car Inspections
A non-CPO car or a traditional used car may or may not be inspected by a dealer or the buyer. And they don’t come with any warranty coverage; any problems or mechanical breakdowns are buyers' responsibility.
The same goes for private sellers' used cars. Buyers cannot expect any assistance from the seller once the deal is done and the paperwork is complete. Incase you're planning to get a non-CPO car, it's always important to get it inspected by a car expert or a trusted mechanic.
Warranty Coverage On Certified Pre-owned Cars
The biggest perk of buying a CPO car over a non-certified car is a comprehensive warranty to protect buyers from unforeseen repair and maintenance costs. While different CPO programs offer varying coverage levels, all of them provide at least some coverage buyers would not typically receive with traditional used cars. At CARS24, all our cars come with a no-questions-asked 6-month warranty. You can opt to buy extended warranty packages.
Additional Benefits of Certified Pre-owned Cars
Apart from pre-purchase inspection and warranty, there are more benefits in buying a CPO depending on the automaker/brand. Every CARS24 certified car comes with a 6 months comprehensive warranty, roadside assistance in case of breakdown, and also the use of manufacturer-recommended lubes and replacement parts during vehicle refurbishment. And in case you don't like the car for whatsoever reason, you can return it within 7 days of delivery and get a 100% refund.
Additionally, we take care of all of the purchase and registration-related paperwork for you, which can save a lot of hassle.
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