What Are the Differences Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles?

Shopping for a pre-owned vehicle? You’ll hear two main terms thrown around: used vs. certified pre-owned. Wondering, “What’s the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” You’re not the first one to ask that question. There are important distinctions between both.

The experts at Porsche Kansas City will happily answer your questions about used cars, so you can find one that fits your lifestyle. Read on to learn more about CPO vs. used vehicles to determine what makes more sense for you.

Used Car Buying: What You Need to Know

Used cars have been owned previously by one or several owners. Used vehicles vary considerably in make, model, year, mileage, and condition. Because of these variances, and the fact that they’ve had previous owners, they’re more affordable than new and CPO vehicles. Many Merriam, KS car shoppers know we have a wide selection of used vehicles, giving drivers plenty of budget-friendly options.

Mileage is an important factor when it comes to used vehicles. Although it may seem like a used car with 100,000 miles is a risk you shouldn’t take, the more important factor to consider is the number of miles per year on the engine. An engine with 100,000 miles on it after just three years of ownership might be a cause for concern, depending on the maintenance schedule and the type of miles driven (city vs. highway). However, a car with 100,000 miles after 10 years has just 10,000 miles per year on it if the previous owners drove the vehicle every year.

Many vehicles can last for hundreds of thousands of miles with regular (documented) service. Modern vehicles can last much longer than ones built 20 years ago.

In any case, when you’re shopping for a new-to-you car, keep the following in mind:

• Although OEMs don’t require that standard used cars be inspected before sale, Porsche Kansas City wants to make sure you get the highest value for your dollar. We hand-pick our used vehicle models. In contrast, we highly suggest you navigate a private sale with extra caution. Private sellers don’t have the reputation of a well-established dealership.
• You should discuss any vehicle issues that you notice, either with the dealership or private seller. If you plan to purchase the car, even though it has a few problems, that’s 100% your choice. Just make sure you factor money for the repairs into your budget.
• With proper care and maintenance, some vehicles can last 200,000 miles or more. High-mileage used cars aren’t always bad options, especially if you’re on a strict budget.

Buying a CPO vs. Used Car: What You Need to Know

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles have had previous owners, and maybe just one owner. But they aren’t your standard used cars that you see on used car lots in Merriam, KS or Wichita, KS.

CPO vehicles are thoroughly inspected pre-owned vehicles backed by manufacturer warranties and have passed a rigorous inspection completed by a certified technician. They’re a gold standard of used cars. Only models that meet the OEM’s CPO program standards earn the title of a CPO vehicle.

For example, the requirements for a Porsche CPO model include the following:

• Model is either from the current model year, or of the previous 13 model years with under 124,000 miles
• A 111-point inspection
• 2-year, unlimited mileage CPO limited warranty coverage
• 24-hour roadside assistance coverage for duration of Porsche Limited Warranty

Certified pre-owned cars are brought to like-new factory condition as closely as possible by factory-trained technicians using OEM parts. Many manufacturers have certified pre-owned vehicles only as far back as five or six model years. However, Porsche vehicles are high-end, luxury vehicles that have elevated standards. That’s why the brand can offer CPO vehicles more than a decade old.

CPO vehicles typically have higher prices than normal used cars, but a CPO vehicle is still more affordable than a new vehicle. If you’re looking for more updated features for your St. Louis, MO commutes, consider buying a CPO vs. a used vehicle.

Shop for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles at Porsche Kansas City

In the CPO vs. used vehicle debate, which one is better for you? The only real way to know is to get behind the wheel of a certified pre-owned Porsche. Contact us or call 913-624-3700 to schedule a test drive around Springfield, IA. We’re happy to help in any way we can!