Purchasing a vehicle is a significant investment, and opting for a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) car can offer an excellent balance between affordability and quality. One of the biggest advantages of choosing a CPO vehicle is the warranty that often comes with it. These warranties provide peace of mind, ensuring that you’re protected from unexpected repair costs and maintenance expenses. In this blog, we’ll explore what’s typically included in a certified pre-owned car warranty and why it’s a smart choice for car buyers.
What is a Certified Pre-Owned Car Warranty?
A Certified Pre-Owned warranty is a type of coverage offered by manufacturers or dealerships when you purchase a CPO vehicle. Unlike standard used cars, CPO vehicles undergo rigorous inspections and meet certain criteria set by the manufacturer or dealership, ensuring they are in excellent condition. The warranty provides additional protection beyond what’s available in a typical used car purchase. This added assurance makes CPO vehicles an attractive option for buyers who want reliability without the high price of a brand-new car.
Check out our range of quality CPO vehicles that come with industry-standard warranties.
What Does a Certified Pre-Owned Warranty Typically Cover?
A CPO warranty usually covers various aspects of the car, from the engine to additional perks that enhance the ownership experience. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:
1. Powertrain Coverage
The powertrain warranty is one of the most critical components of any CPO warranty. This coverage typically includes the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. It’s designed to protect against the most significant and costly repairs, ensuring that any major mechanical failures are covered. This can save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong with the car’s core systems.
2. Bumper-to-Bumper Coverage
Many CPO vehicles also offer bumper-to-bumper coverage. Unlike the powertrain warranty, this type of coverage can include a broader range of components such as the air conditioning, electrical systems, suspension, and even certain interior features. This coverage is usually limited to a specific timeframe or mileage limit but offers comprehensive protection during that period.
3. Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance is a standard inclusion in many CPO warranties. This feature provides services like towing, battery jump-start, flat tire changes, lockout assistance, and emergency fuel delivery. Having roadside assistance adds another layer of convenience and safety, ensuring that you’re never left stranded on the road.
4. Vehicle History Report
Most CPO programs include a vehicle history report, which details the car’s background, including previous ownership, accidents, and service records. This report gives you confidence that you’re buying a reliable vehicle and helps identify any potential red flags. The report is typically provided free of charge as part of the CPO package.
5. Free Maintenance Services
Some manufacturers and dealerships offer complimentary maintenance services as part of their CPO warranty. This can include oil changes, tire rotations, fluid checks, and other routine maintenance tasks for a set period. These free maintenance services can reduce your overall ownership costs and keep the car in peak condition.
To further minimize your car’s depreciation over time, explore our guide on How to Protect Your Used Car From Depreciation.
What’s Not Included in a Certified Pre-Owned Warranty?
While CPO warranties cover many aspects of the vehicle, they do have limitations. Here are a few things that are usually not included:
1. Wear and Tear Items
Wear and tear items such as brake pads, windshield wipers, tires, and batteries are often excluded from CPO warranties. These components are considered routine maintenance items that will wear out over time due to regular use.
2. Cosmetic Damage
Scratches, dents, and interior wear like torn upholstery are usually not covered under a CPO warranty. These are considered cosmetic imperfections that don’t affect the car’s functionality or safety.
3. Aftermarket Modifications
Any aftermarket parts or modifications added to the vehicle after purchase are generally not covered. This includes custom rims, performance enhancements, or non-factory stereo systems. Using aftermarket parts can void certain aspects of the warranty, so it’s essential to understand what’s allowed under your specific CPO terms.
What to Look for in a Certified Pre-Owned Warranty
If you’re in the market for a CPO vehicle, here are a few key factors to consider when evaluating the warranty:
1. Duration and Mileage
Check the length of the coverage and the mileage limits. Some CPO warranties extend the original manufacturer’s warranty by several years, while others offer coverage for a specific number of miles. Choose a warranty that aligns with how much you drive and how long you plan to keep the vehicle.
2. Transferability
Some CPO warranties are transferable, meaning if you decide to sell the car, the warranty can be passed on to the new owner. A transferable warranty can increase the resale value of your vehicle, making it more appealing to potential buyers.
3. Deductibles
Examine the warranty for any deductibles that may apply. A deductible is the out-of-pocket cost you’ll need to pay for repairs covered under the warranty. Lower or zero-deductible options provide more cost savings in the event of a claim.
Why Choose a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle?
Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are an excellent choice for several reasons:
- Peace of Mind: With a CPO warranty, you get assurance that the vehicle has been thoroughly inspected and is in good working order.
- Cost Savings: CPO vehicles are often priced lower than new cars but come with many of the same protections, providing a good balance of affordability and reliability.
- Added Benefits: Additional perks such as roadside assistance and free maintenance can add significant value to your purchase.
Use our car loan calculator to see what financing options are available and how a CPO vehicle might fit your budget.
Conclusion
A Certified Pre-Owned warranty provides peace of mind by covering major components, offering additional perks, and ensuring that the vehicle has undergone a thorough inspection. While there are limitations, the coverage provided in a CPO warranty can make your investment in a pre-owned vehicle a smart and reliable choice. For those who want the best of both worlds—quality and affordability—a CPO vehicle is worth considering.
Ready to experience the benefits of a CPO vehicle? Book a Test Drive today and see why so many car buyers are choosing CPO over traditional used cars. For regular maintenance, don’t forget to book a service appointment to keep your car in top shape for years to come.