Aug 18, 2022

Used Car Vs. Certified Pre-Owned: Which One Should You Buy?

When you’re darting to buy a used car, should you go for a certified pre-owned (CPO) model? That’s the question many folks are asking themselves nowadays. On the one hand, CPO cars come with certain perks and assurances that regular used cars don’t – such as warranties and/or guaranteed histories of being accident-free. 

But on the other end, some people argue that CPO models are more expensive than regular used cars and may not be worth the extra money. So, which is better? In today’s blog post with Brownsville Toyota, let’s explore this question!

Regular Used Cars: A Brief Intro

Regular used cars are, well, just that: regular. There’s no guarantee that anyone, let alone the manufacturer, has inspected them. And while you can find some great deals on regular used cars, you’re also more likely to run into problems down the road. With a regular used car, you’re essentially taking your chances.

Certified Pre-Owned Cars: A Brief Intro

When you buy a certified pre-owned (CPO) car, you’re essentially getting a used car thoroughly inspected by the manufacturer and approved. Certified pre-owned cars must meet certain criteria for certification, such as being within a certain age and mileage range, having no major wear and tear, and passing a detailed inspection process. Many CPO cars also come with extended warranties that cover them longer than regular used cars.

Regular Vs. CPO Cars: Pros & Cons

Now that we’ve laid out a brief introduction to each type of car, it’s time to compare the pros and cons of regular used cars vs. certified pre-owned cars.

Used Cars: 

Pros 

  • You can usually grab a great deal on a used car.
  • Used cars have already taken their biggest depreciation hit, so you don’t have to worry about the value dropping any further.

Cons 

  • It can be challenging to grab a good used car since there’s no guarantee of quality.
  • A warranty may not cover you if something goes wrong with the car.

Certified Pre-Owned Cars: 

Pros 

  • CPO cars are thoroughly inspected and have a warranty, so you know you’re getting a quality car.
  • You can often find low-mileage CPO cars that are nearly new.

Cons 

  • CPO cars usually have a higher price tag than regular used cars.
  • The selection of CPO cars may be limited depending on the make and model you’re looking for.

Bottom Line

So, which type of car should you buy? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget and what you’re looking for in a car. A certified pre-owned car is a fantastic option if you’re willing to spend more money for peace of mind. 

However, suppose you’re budget-conscious or looking for a specific make and model that might not be available as a CPO. In that case, a regular used car is probably your best bet. Whichever route you choose, do your research and shop around to get the best deal possible.

Here’s How Brownsville Toyota Can Help You!

Brownsville Toyota, serving Brownsville, TX, is your number one source for all things Toyota. We have a big selection of both new and used Toyotas, as well as certified pre-owned cars

Our knowledgeable & friendly sales team will be happy to help you find the perfect car for your needs and budget. 

Give us a call or stop by our dealership today!