Making the Right Choice: Used or CPO

When it comes to purchasing a car, you have two main options: buying used or certified pre-owned (CPO). Both options can offer great value, but there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Differentiating Used and CPO Cars

A used car is just that: it’s a vehicle previously owned by someone else and sold as-is. Generally, there isn’t any sort of car warranty coverage or other safety net in place to protect you from potential issues. While you can find great deals on used cars, it’s important to research and inspect them thoroughly before buying.

A CPO car, on the other hand, is a vehicle that has been certified by manufacturers or car dealerships. This process typically involves a detailed inspection of the vehicle and any necessary repairs to ensure that all safety standards are met. Generally speaking, CPOs come with longer warranties than their used counterparts, providing buyers with additional peace of mind. 

Costs Associated

When it comes to cost, both options can offer great deals—ultimately, it depends on what type of car you’re looking for and what condition it’s in. Generally speaking, used cars are more affordable than CPO vehicles. However, the cost of a used car can be deceptive. You may find yourself paying for unexpected repairs or dealing with issues that could have been avoided by buying a certified pre-owned vehicle. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Type of Car

When it comes to deciding between a used or CPO vehicle, there are several pros and cons for each option. Let’s dive into the details.

Buying Used: Pros

The primary benefit of buying a used car is that it can offer great value for money upfront, as you’ll generally pay less than if you were buying something brand new. It’s also possible to get good deals on more recent models without having to pay the premium associated with them when they’re still new. Another pro is that it can be a great option for those looking to buy something rare or collectible, as you may not find them available in CPO programs.

Overall, buying a used car is generally cheaper than a CPO vehicle. It’s important to consider the age, condition, and mileage of any used car before making a purchase.

Buying Used: Cons

The downside of buying used is that you’re selling yourself short when it comes to warranties and other protections. If anything goes wrong with the car, you’ll need to pay for the repairs yourself. Also, there’s no guarantee that previous owners have properly maintained the vehicle over its lifetime. You do not always have a guarantee of quality and reliability.

Buying CPO: Pros

The main benefit of buying a certified pre-owned vehicle is that you get the peace of mind associated with CPO warranties and maintenance checks. This means that if something does go wrong with your car, it’s likely covered by a manufacturer warranty or service plan. You also typically get an extended warranty on newer models as well as additional features such as roadside assistance and free oil changes. It also helps protect you against potential issues that may have been missed in the inspection process.

Buying CPO: Cons

The downside of buying a CPO vehicle is that it can be more expensive upfront. The cost of the certification process and extended warranties can add up quickly, so make sure to factor this into your buying journey. You may also have to pay for any necessary repairs or maintenance work if the car isn’t certified by the manufacturer. Additionally, some dealerships may try to sell you additional services or packages, which could add up quickly.

Choosing the Right Option for You

When deciding between a used and CPO vehicle, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. If you’re looking for something reliable at an affordable price point, then you may want to opt for a certified pre-owned car. On the other hand, if you’re willing to take on some risk in exchange for potentially greater savings upfront, then buying a used car is likely your best option. 

Whichever route you choose, it is a good idea to do your research and inspect the vehicle in person before making a purchase.

Let Parkway Ford of Lexington help you find the perfect used or CPO car today! With our extensive selection of certified pre-owned and used vehicles, we’re sure to have something that fits your needs. Stop by today or give us a call to learn more about what we have to offer. You can also shop our inventory online here or check out our pre-owned specials online here.

Other resources: Complete Guide to Ford’s CPO Program

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