Car Buyer Labs

Car Buying Advice, Tips, and Reviews

2015 Ford Escape

3 Reasons to Buy Certified Pre-Owned (Only 3?)

If you’re considering a pre-owned vehicle, you’ll have inevitably stumbled across arguments in favor of buying a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle. That said, there are far too many articles and videos that are content to glaze over the benefits. For example:

 

So, wait…there are 3 reasons to buy a CPO vehicle? Only 3? Not only does that seem wrong, but what does the video actually tell us? That a CPO vehicle provides assurance, gets warrantees, and can be more expensive than traditional used but less-expensive than buying New? Well, that just about tells you nothing…

We want to help. With that in mind in mind, let’s explore CPO programs, using the Ford Certified Pre Owned program as our basis.

 

Buying Pre-Owned is a Smart Investment

Whether Certified or not, a pre-owned vehicle empowers you to get more car for your money. As the lion’s share of depreciation occurs within the first 3-5 years of ownership, you are allowing the previous owner to shoulder that financial burden. This means that you’re able to get a vehicle for far less than what you’d have paid for it new. This might enable you to afford a vehicle or trim level that would have otherwise been outside of your budget. It also means that you’ll experience slower depreciation rates, allowing for a better return on your investment at the time of resale.

 

Ford Certified Pre-Owned

To qualify for Ford Certified status, a vehicle must (i) have been produced within the last five model years (ii) have been driven 80,000 miles or less and (iii) have a clean vehicle history report.

  • All eligible vehicles undergo a rigorous 172-point inspection and road to ensure that all major parts and operating systems meet factory standards. If not, they are repaired, replaced or refurbished as needed, by Ford Certified technicians.
  • All Ford Certified vehicles receive (i) comprehensive Limited Warranty coverage for 12-months / 12,000-miles (whichever comes first) and (ii) Powertrain Limited Warranty for 7-years / 100,000-miles (whichever comes first).
  • 24/7 Roadside Assistance
  • Ford Certified vehicles may also be eligible for Special Financing Rates.

Is a Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicle the right fit for you?