Certified Pre-Owned vs. Used: Which is Better?

When it's time to buy a new vehicle, it's important to choose the right car, especially when you opt for a used or certified pre-owned (CPO) model. By researching the type of vehicle that's best for you and your driving habits, you can ensure you have the best driving experience possible while remaining within your budget. At Boardman Mitsubishi, we know how challenging it can be to decide between a CPO or a used car, and we're here to help. Here's a bit more information about CPO vs. used cars, including which is better for different types of drivers.

CPO vs. Used Cars

There are many benefits to buying a used vehicle, such as the savings you'll see at the initial purchase. Cars that have been owned before will cost less than buying a brand-new model, and there are options from different brands at various price points. This means you can typically find the vehicle that has everything you want without breaking the bank on the most recent version. A traditional used vehicle is simply a car that has a previous owner, while a CPO vehicle is specially certified and backed by warranties from the original manufacturer. 

CPO vehicles are growing more popular every year, as many consider them a premium choice when it comes to used cars. This is because a CPO vehicle will undergo a thorough inspection before being put up for sale whereas a used vehicle from a private owner may not. CPO cars also usually come with warranties that protect drivers in the case of unexpected damages or recalls.

Advantages of CPO Cars

When you decide to purchase a CPO car, there are countless advantages. One of the most helpful is the warranty you'll receive, as manufacturers offer coverage that's designed to save you money throughout your car's life. For example, Mitsubishi's warranty for CPO models covers you for up to five years or 100,000 miles from the date of purchase. You'll also get powertrain protection for 10 years or 100,000 miles, so you can keep your engine in tip-top shape. Boardman Mitsubishi carries several vehicles that are part of the Mitsubishi CPO program, offering great savings and generous coverage.

Another huge benefit to buying CPO vehicles is that they undergo rigorous inspections before being put on the sales floor. This means you can have peace of mind knowing the car you buy is in outstanding shape and that you can rely on it well into the future. Because CPO vehicles often have only been owned for brief periods of time before being sold to the dealership, they also typically have lower mileage than you'd see on a traditional used car that's had multiple owners.

Benefits of Buying Used Cars

Used cars are another excellent option for anyone looking to save on their next vehicle. For instance, when you purchase a used car through a dealership such as Boardman Mitsubishi, you'll encounter much lower upfront costs than with a brand-new model. These prices are also often lower than a CPO option. Because used cars are often well into their useful lives, you'll also see less rapid depreciation; a car will lose value at the slowest rate during the middle points and the end of its usability. This will ensure you get all the bang for your buck and save you money over time.

Insuring a used vehicle is always cheaper than insuring a brand-new model as well. This means lower monthly payments and more spending money in your budget. Aside from the potential savings, you'll also experience a far broader selection of models when looking at used cars. This provides more options for you in terms of trim levels, manufacturers, and price points, so you can be certain you get all the features, tech, and efficiency you want. 

Considerations When Choosing

There are a few factors to consider when choosing between a CPO or a used car. First, think about your budget, as this can give you a price point to search in and determine whether you'll find more CPO or used cars for the amount you want to pay. It's also important to think about what you intend to use the car for. For example, a CPO vehicle can be preferable for people who drive frequently because they're certified to be in great shape. 

However, if personal preferences in terms of trim level and features are crucial to you, you might opt for a used car. This will give you more variety in your options.

If you opt for a used car, ask for a thorough vehicle history check to ensure you make a purchase that will last. At Boardman Mitsubishi, we offer an array of used and CPO vehicle specials designed to save you even more money, which our sales team will be happy to discuss with you when you visit.

Comparative Analysis 

Here's a side-by-side comparison of CPO cars and used cars, showcasing key differences between them:

	CPO	Used
Price	A CPO vehicle costs less to maintain, as it undergoes a complete inspection before being sold.	Used vehicles have the potential to cost more to maintain because there's less information available about their history.
Variety of Options	<table 1333px;"="">
With CPO vehicles, you'll be limited to the models that a specific dealership offers as CPO.

There are endless options for used vehicles, as you can search for models from any year or manufacturer.

Compare Used and CPO Models Yourself at Boardman Mitsubishi

Whether you want to purchase a specific used car that's exactly the model and trim you're looking for or a CPO Mitsubishi that'll serve you for years to come, Boardman Mitsubishi in Boardman, Ohio, is here to help. The best fit for you depends on your individual circumstances and driving habits, so our expert sales team will advise you on choosing your new ride. Visit us today to explore our used inventory, including CPO options. Call us directly to schedule a test drive or speak to a salesperson for personalized guidance to ensure you get the best deal.