If you live in Canada, you will likely change cars several times, and there are times when you won’t have the cash to buy a new vehicle outright. This is where used cars come in.
If you decide to buy a used vehicle, you will need to choose between a certified pre-owned/CPO car and an ordinary used model. The two have their own advantages and disadvantages. Firstly, let’s look at what makes them different.
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Used Car (Pre-owned) vs. Certified Pre-owned Car
A pre-owned vehicle is a car that has been used, i.e., it was previously owned by at least one person. A certified pre-owned vehicle is still a used car. But the manufacturer has accredited it for sale at a dealership or franchise that sells the same brand.
A CPO vehicle is usually slightly used, has low mileage, and is accident-free. Unlike a regular used car, it is warranted by the original carmaker and not a third party. Having been properly inspected and maintained, a factory-certified pre-owned car almost looks like a brand-new and highly reliable model.
When you buy a non-CPO used car, any breakdown that may occur after leaving a dealership is entirely up to you to fix unless there is any guarantee by the OEM’s limited warranty (e.g., bumper-to-bumper coverage). In most cases, you’ll have to buy an extended warranty, or the dealer can give you one as an incentive.
In addition to these two ways, there is also the option for you to own a car for a specific period of time, like leasing a car. You opt for lease deals for sedan at many automotive brokerages for an affordable ride. They help you to choose the right vehicle according to your needs with easy to follow terms and conditions.
How to Know It’s Actually a Factory-Certified Pre-owned Vehicle
Not all models displayed on a dealership lot are CPO. Some may be a few years old but are yet to be factory-certified. Different original car manufacturers have different standards and requirements, but all CPO models must be below specific mileage and age.
For example, CPO Toyota vehicles are less than six years old. They have a CARFAX Vehicle History Report and passed a 160-point quality assurance inspection. Toyota’s warranty coverage comprises 12 months of roadside assistance, a seven-year or 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and a 12-month/12,000-mile limited comprehensive warranty.
In most cases, factory-certified pre-owned cars are sold by brands’ dealerships. So, if you need a CPO Toyota RAV4, you might want to visit an accredited Toyota dealer in Calgary. The chances are that the Honda Civic you see marked ‘certified’ at a Ford dealer is not a factory-backed model.
Most CPO programs by automakers offer lease returns on vehicles sold. These cars may not feature the latest technologies, but they are relatively new. Plus, they have records of proper maintenance and must pass rigorous inspection procedures.
The Cost Difference
Non-certified or regular used cars Calgary cost less than CPO vehicles. Ordinary used cars do not have the reassurance of good working conditions. Neither do they have the right protection or warranty directly from the automaker.
For both certified pre-owned and traditional used vehicles, the price varies depending on the age, mileage, model/make, and overall condition. If you’re on a limited budget and want a traditional pre-owned vehicle, be keen on its history because a poorly maintained car will likely cause frequent road problems. A well-cared-for used vehicle will serve you better for longer with fewer repairs.
Final Thoughts
Even though certified pre-owned vehicles are priced higher than regular used cars in Calgary, they are worth the investment since they have warranties and are subjected to thorough checkups and refurbishment beforehand. Always shop for CPO cars at franchised new car dealerships.
If you opt for a non-certified pre-owned vehicle, ensure you have thousands of dollars for an extended warranty. Some used cars advertised as ‘certified’ are backed by individual dealers rather than the original manufacturers. Nonetheless, they don’t have the same perks as factory-backed CPO programs.
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