A certified pre-owned vehicle offers smart car buyers the best of both worlds. Being “pre-owned”, it can be purchased at a considerable savings over the cost of a similar brand-new model. But unlike conventional used cars, certified pre-owned vehicles are “certified” by their manufacturers. Before they are offered for sale, they are put through a rigorous inspection by qualified technicians, refurbished to like-new condition, and then backed with a comprehensive manufacturer's warranty.

Certified pre-owned vehicles have been refurbished to like-new standards and have passed a checklist of requirements, including cosmetic and mechanical defects, however be sure to find out whether a used vehicle is dealer-certified or manufacturer-certified, since their standards may differ.  The manufacturer standards try to bring cars to like-new condition, because corporate reputation and identity is tied to the sale.  Avoid dealer-certified vehicles as some dealers may be more interested in a quick, cost-effective turnaround and few perform the 100+ checks required under the manufacturer programs.  Certified pre-owned buyers don't just enjoy the satisfaction of driving a like-new automobile at a lower price, they also experience a very comprehensive limited manufacturer's warranty that comes with it.

Certification Examples:

• BMW: Only the best pre-owned BMWs qualify for the Certified Pre-Owned BMW Vehicle Program. To be eligible for enrollment in the Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle Program, a late-model vehicle must be in service for at least six months or have more than 6,000 miles but less than 60,000 miles on the odometer. They must pass an extensive examination — a thorough and rigorous inspection by BMW factory-trained technicians. They inspect the vehicle for safety, performance and wear. If something is not right, it is fixed. If it cannot be fixed, the car cannot become a Certified Pre-Owned BMW.
  Every Certified Pre-Owned BMW is backed by a special BMW Protection Plan which provides coverage on the car for up to two years or 50,000 miles (whichever comes first) from the date of expiration of the 4-year/50,000 mile BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Recommendations - Similar factory-certified warranties are now available from almost every manufacturer.  It is very typical for a certified pre-owned vehicle to be significantly more money than a similar non-certified car. The idea is that you recoup the added expense through lower repair bills. Factory-certified used vehicles are your best bet for years of reliable trouble-free driving.  Certified Pre-Owned buyers don't just enjoy the satisfaction of driving a like-new automobile at a bargain price, they also experience an extremely comprehensive limited warranty.