What Is the Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned?

As you head out to the dealerships around Providence, RI, you may be wondering, “What’s the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” It’s a common question we receive, and they both have important distinctions that set them apart. The team in our finance center at MINI of Warwick is dedicated to taking the confusion out of the car-buying process. Read on as we take a look at the differences between certified pre-owned (CPO) and used and help you make the purchase that is right for you.

Used Cars vs. CPO: What to Know About Used Cars

One of the first notable differences between used cars vs. CPO models is that you can find more affordable options with used cars. With used cars varying considerably in make, model, year, mileage, number of owners, and more, you can often find models under $10k and at more affordable prices than new and CPO vehicles.

During your used car search, you may have been warned about staying away from used cars over 100,000 miles. However, you’ll actually find that models with regular and well-documented service can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. As you’re looking at used cars around Cranston, RI, keep these tips in mind:

• You’ll find that many OEMs don’t require standard used cars to be thoroughly inspected before being sold. However, our team at MINI of Warwick aims to give our customers the highest value for their dollar as we carefully select our used car models. You should still shop with caution as private sellers don’t have the same standards as a well-established dealership.
• Take the time to look over the vehicle and discuss any problems you notice. While you’re able to purchase the used car despite the issues, be sure to factor the repair cost into your budget and purchase price.
• When you weigh mileage and age, you’ll find that some vehicles can last upwards of 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. Higher mileage cars are often more affordable, so they are a great option for those shopping on a budget. Learn more about good mileage on a used car.

Used Cars vs. CPO: What to Know About Certified Pre-Owned Cars

As you’re wondering about the difference between certified pre-owned and used cars, it may not be surprising that all CPO vehicles are used cars. So, what does CPO mean? All CPO vehicles are backed by manufacturer warranties and have to pass a rigorous inspection by a certified technician before they can be considered a certified pre-owned vehicle. When you turn to CPO models around Newport, RI, you have peace of mind that these vehicles meet the OEM’s standards with qualifications like:

• Within five years of the current model year
• Generally less than 80,000 miles, sometimes up to 100,000 miles
• A multi-point inspection
• Offered with extended warranties and/or limited powertrain warranties

Shopping certified used cars means you don’t have to worry about the mileage as much. While they are pricier than used cars, your adventures are backed by a newer model with up-to-date technology and less mileage.

Take Home a Pre-Owned Vehicle With MINI of Warwick!

Now that you know what the difference is between used and certified pre-owned vehicles, reach out to the team at MINI of Warwick to schedule a test drive of the used MINI Cooper or used BMW models in our inventory today! When you’re ready to find the right used or CPO model for your Warwick drives, be sure to take advantage of our pre-owned vehicle specials for more great deals.