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

If you’re considering purchasing a pre-owned car, you may be wondering, “What is the difference between pre-owned and certified pre-owned?” To put it simply, all certified pre-owned vehicles are pre-owned, but not all pre-owned vehicles are certified pre-owned. Certified pre-owned vehicles offer benefits like warranty protection and more. Read on to learn more about CPO vs. pre-owned and decide which category of pre-owned car better suits your needs.

Buying a Pre-Owned Car: What to Keep in Mind 

Pre-Owned cars have been owned and driven by one or more owners. Their model years and mileage can vary. For this reason, they’re less expensive than new vehicles and certified pre-owned vehicles. Dealerships acquire a lot of their pre-owned cars from drivers who trade-in their pre-owned models for cash or to put toward the purchase of another vehicle. Depreciation isn’t a major concern with pre-owned vehicles, because by the time you purchase one, the previous owner would’ve taken the initial depreciation hit for you. 

Many pre-owned cars have 100,000+ miles, and while that may seem like a risk, a car can last hundreds of thousands of miles with the proper maintenance. When considering a pre-owned car, keep the following points in mind: 

  • Be sure to inspect any pre-owned vehicle you’re considering and take it for a test drive on Bloomfield Hills roads before making a decision. 
  • If you notice any issues with the vehicle, either during the inspection or road test, bring them up and get clarification. 
  • Again, with proper care and maintenance, many vehicles can last well over 100,000 miles. 

Buying a CPO Car: What to Keep in Mind 

Certified pre-owned vehicles are pre-owned vehicles that meet the CPO requirements of whatever automaker manufactured them. If you’re considering a Certified Pre-Owned Mercedes-Benz, for example, the car will include: 

  • Peace of mind that comes with a rigorous inspection 
  • Unlimited miles CPO warranty 
  • CARFAX® Vehicle History Report 
  • Trip Interruption Coverage 
  • And more! 

Another benefit of certified pre-owned cars is that they’re almost always late-model cars with limited mileage. Essentially, they’re like-new vehicles without the price tag and include many of the brand’s latest comfort features, technologies, and safety features for a reasonable rate. 

Browse Pre-Owned Cars at Mercedes-Benz of Bloomfield Hills! 

Now that you know the answer to the question, “What is the difference between pre-owned and certified pre-owned,” you’re ready to start shopping! If you have any additional questions about CPO vs. pre-owned, contact us today! You’re also welcome to pay us a visit near Birmingham and Southfield. Be sure to ask about our current pre-owned vehicle specials and CPO offers


Mercedes-Benz of Bloomfield Hills Pre-Owned Vehicle Specials

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