What is the Difference Between Used and Certified Pre-Owned?

A common question we hear at Tulley BMW of Manchester is, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” Both used and certified pre-owned vehicles have had at least one previous owner, but there are a few ways they differ as well. Compare the benefits of certified pre-owned vs. used cars below to find the option best suited to your driving needs and budget in Bedford. 

How to Shop For a Used Car in Manchester

What is the main difference between CPO vs. used cars? Used cars can be any age or mileage, and should be priced accordingly. Comparison shop, and research the make, model, and year that you’re interested in. Find out if any recalls have been made for the vehicle, and invest in a vehicle history report such as CARFAX. This will tell you if the recalls have been completed, as well as how often the car received routine maintenance and if it was in any collisions. Well-maintained modern cars can last well over 200,000 miles.

Considering a Used Car?

As mentioned above, used cars have had at least one previous owner, and models in stock can vary widely in terms of model year, mileage, and the number of previous owners. This is why a used car is typically more affordable than a CPO vehicle. 

Thanks to advancements in automotive technology, cars are lasting longer than ever. While it was once advised to avoid used cars with more than 100,000 miles on the odometer, that is no longer a hard and fast rule. Many well-maintained vehicles can last for 200,000 miles or more. Before you select a used car, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Standard used vehicles do not require an OEM inspection before they are resold. Dealerships like Tulley BMW of Manchester still inspect each and every used car on our lot for safety and quality, but this is often not the case with a private seller. If you plan to purchase a used car from a private seller, be sure to take it for a test drive and have it looked at by a mechanic before finalizing the sale. 
• If you notice any issues with the vehicle on your test drive, that does not mean that the vehicle is a poor choice. A car that needs a little TLC could still be an excellent value, just remember to factor the cost of that maintenance into your budget. 
• If you are on a tight budget, a high-mileage used car that has been properly maintained may be a great choice. 

Considering a CPO Car? 

Certified pre-owned vehicles have undergone a thorough inspection and must meet the strict standards of the automaker to earn this distinction. 

If a BMW vehicle makes the cut and is selected for the CPO program, it will come with these unique benefits: 

• CARFAX™ or AutoCheck® report
• BMW Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Limited Warranty
• Roadside assistance coverage
• Three months of SiriusXM Satellite Radio

Certified used cars are typically newer models with less mileage. This is why they are a bit more pricey than standard used cars. However, many Londonderry drivers do not mind the extra cost for the added peace of mind of a CPO vehicle. 

Compare CPO vs. Used Cars at Tulley BMW of Manchester

Still trying to decide between certified pre-owned vs. used cars at Tulley BMW of Manchester. Our team would be more than happy to answer your questions and help you narrow down your vehicle search. Visit us today or contact us at your convenience. Remember to also take a look at our pre-owned vehicle specials for added savings on your preferred model.