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

If you are in the market for a budget-friendly used car near Arlington, you may be wondering about the difference between CPO vs. used cars. You are not alone! It is a common question we hear right here at Alexandria Volkswagen. While both options have had at least one previous owner, there are a few distinctions that set each apart. So, what is the difference between used and certified pre-owned? The team at Alexandria Volkswagen breaks it down below.

Basics of Buying a Used Car

Used vehicles are vehicles that have been previously driven by other owners. They can vary widely in several key areas like mileage, model year, and number of owners. This is why they are more affordable than both new and certified pre-owned vehicles. At Alexandria Volkswagen, you can find a wide variety of used cars at various price points, including many outstanding options under $10k. Unlike brand new cars, used cars do not depreciate rapidly as soon as you leave the dealership.

While it was once recommended to avoid purchasing a used car with over 100,000 miles on the odometer, that is not always the case anymore. Thanks to advancements in automotive technology, some well-maintained vehicles can last for hundreds of thousands of miles. When shopping for a used car, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Thoroughly inspect any used vehicle you’re considering, and be sure to take it for a test drive before making a final decision.
• If there are any issues you notice on your test drive, discuss them with the seller.
• You want to be sure that the vehicle you choose is safe for the roads of Washington DC and beyond.
• A high-mileage vehicle with an impeccable maintenance history can still be an outstanding investment. Just because a vehicle has less miles on the odometer does not mean that it is in better condition.

Basics of Buying a CPO Car

To be considered a CPO vehicle, a car must meet strict standards set by the manufacturer. In the case of Volkswagen CPO vehicles, you can expect the following:

• Your vehicle passed a comprehensive 100+ point inspection, and any issues were taken care of using genuine VW parts.
• Enjoy added peace of mind with model-year specific limited warranty coverage.
• Your vehicle will come with a CARFAX Vehicle History Report.

Certified used cars are typically newer models with less mileage. While they are usually a bit more pricey than most used cars, they are still more affordable than a brand new model while offering some of the benefits that a new car provides.

Make Alexandria Volkswagen Your Destination for Reliable Pre-Owned Vehicles

You now have the answer to the question, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” So is CPO vs. used right for you? Explore the current options we have in stock, and take your favorites for a test drive. We can’t wait to help you find a new-to-you vehicle that exceeds your expectations but not your budget. Contact us today if you have any questions.

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