If you've ever considered buying a used vehicle, you've likely heard of a traditional used car as well as a certified pre-owned vehicle. However, what does that mean? What's the difference between the two?

What Is a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle?

 No matter where you shop for a used car, you're going to come across certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. These are slightly used, factory-certified vehicles that have to meet a number of requirements to qualify for a dealer's certified pre-owned program.

Typically, these vehicles are only several years old, have been slightly used, and feature less than 60,000 miles. They also can't have a record of a collision or an accident.

Whether you're looking for a sedan, SUV, or any other vehicle type, you're likely to find one that is certified pre-owned.

So, what does a vehicle need in order to qualify as certified pre-owned? While each carmaker establishes its own set of requirements, BMW Certified vehicles must check the boxes of a comprehensive certified pre-owned vehicle inspection checklist. With this, a BMW-trained technician will test every aspect of the vehicle, from the performance of the engine to the condition and operation of the interior features.  

Two of the main indications that earn a vehicle certified pre-owned status are its maintenance and appearance. CPO vehicles must have been properly maintained-following the standards set by the owner's manual-and able to meet the requirements of BMW's inspection process.

Certified pre-owned vehicles are only found at dealerships of the same brand.

Cerified Pre-Owned Repair & Inspection

Once a vehicle has been declared certified pre-owned, it will receive any necessary repairs to meet the standards of the CPO program.

Before the vehicle can be certified and offered with warranty coverage to a new owner, it must first pass an inspection. After a CPO vehicle has passed that inspection, it is ready to be sold again.

Benefits of Used vs Certified Pre-Owned

 Both used and certified pre-owned vehicles come with their own set of perks. Since these vehicles aren't limited by the manufacturer, you'll enjoy plenty of options-different years, makes, and models.  

One of the biggest benefits of going with a certified pre-owned vehicle is the peace of mind that comes with knowing that they are factory-backed, repaired to meet a high standard, and properly inspected. They'll also usually have the benefit of a manufacturer's warranty coverage.

Warranty coverage will often vary by CPO program but will ultimately provide some form of coverage for every certified pre-owned vehicle.

At BMW, you'll enjoy one year of coverage with unlimited miles after the expiration of the 4-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Not only does that warranty cover a total of five years, but it'll also include six years of BMW Roadside Assistance.

The Certified Pre-Owned Protection Plan offers specific coverage against defects in material and workmanship.

Shop Used & Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles Today!

Now that you know the difference between and benefits of used and certified pre-owned vehicles, it's time to put that knowledge to good use.