One of the most significant factors when buying a car is the price–we need something that makes sense for our budget.
That’s not too much to ask for, right?
Buying a used vehicle is like shopping on Facebook Marketplace–you have to ensure you’re not only getting what you want for the right price but that your new purchase won’t end up being a dud down the line. It requires a little extra research.
In the same way that Facebook Marketplace has reviews that allow you to trust who you’re buying from, the used vehicle market has its certified pre-owned inventory.
What is a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle?
A certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle is considered the gold medal Olympian of the used car category. It’s a class of vehicles that must pass a strict multi-point inspection and meet specific criteria before gaining the “certified” label.
Auto manufacturers have different requirements for their CPO vehicles, but most vehicles in the CPO category are relatively recent model years with low mileage and include maintenance records from previous owners that show the vehicle has been adequately maintained.
It’s important to understand that while every certified pre-owned vehicle is a used car, not every used car is a CPO, nor does it meet the standards to qualify for one. A car can only be considered for the CPO inspection process if it was built by the manufacturer.
For example, a Land Rover vehicle is only eligible to be considered for the title of “certified pre-owned Land Rover” by the Land Rover manufacturer–the manufacturer can not give the title of CPO to a Ford vehicle.
Is Every Pre-Owned Car Certified?
Pre-owned vehicles don’t always receive the title of “CPO,” nor do they meet initial qualification requirements.
Before undergoing the strict CPO inspection process, a used vehicle must meet the following criteria:
- Fairly recent model year
- Low mileage
- Proper maintenance and recommended service from previous owners
- Gently-used, collision-free history
Once the general prerequisites are met, the used Land Rover vehicle will undergo a multi-point inspection process by a certified mechanic.
CPO Inspections Explained
CPO inspections are comprehensive, to say the least.
Safety features, emissions, and operation are all carefully inspected, with every part and system being looked at. In addition to the braking system, every part and component within the engine, along with the transmission, is thoroughly examined. From engine belts to hoses, gaskets to seals, no stone is left unturned when it comes to a possible CPO vehicle.
Receiving a CPO certification is more than ensuring the inner components of a used vehicle meet the standards–when it comes to a used vehicle, looks do matter.
Cosmetic checks are typically part of a CPO inspection. The mechanic will investigate the front and rear bumpers, emblems and nameplates, and door handles, among other exterior components. Some manufacturers will often hunt for mismatched paint replaced after an accident, along with dents and scratches.
Are CPO Vehicles Better Than Used Cars?
Most people are hesitant when it comes to buying used, and when it comes to your vehicle, it’s not something to be taken lightly. With new cars, you can rest assured that your ride has had no accidents, is outfitted with the latest safety features, and will not need immediate maintenance or upkeep.
Used vehicles, on the other hand, are a slightly different story. But so are CPO vehicles.
If you’re searching for a vehicle that is more affordable but has all the bells and whistles of a new ride, CPO cars far outshine their used competition.
With CPO vehicles, you can rest assured that the car has undergone the following:
- Comprehensive inspection process
- Reconditioning (such as if the used vehicle needed repairs to its mechanical components, interior and exterior)
- Met specific starting condition standards (i.e., collision-free and properly scheduled maintenance)
- Met initial age and mileage prerequisites
On top of meeting high standards for the CPO program, one of the significant benefits of choosing CPO over used is the warranty. Often, a manufacturer warranty is included when you purchase a CPO car–this means more protection and peace of mind for you and your new ride.
Shop For Used and Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles at Land Rover Livermore!
Whether you are on the hunt for certified pre-owned or used cars for sale in Livermore, our team at Land Rover Livermore has you covered!
We offer an expansive inventory of used and certified pre-owned vehicles near the Pleasanton, CA area. With the ability to shop confidently both online and at our Land Rover dealership, there are multiple ways to get started!
Browse our online inventory of used cars in Livermore, CA today, then visit our dealership for a test drive!