Manufacturer-Certified Used Vehicles

Quite simply, a manufacturer-certified used car 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, manufacturer-certified used vehicles are “certified” by their manufacturers. Before they hit the showroom floor, they’re thoroughly examined by qualified technicians, refurbished to like-new condition, and then backed with a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty (the details differ slightly see accompanying chart at bottom of page—but in every case the process is an intensive one).

Manufacturer-certified used cars have been refurbished to like-new standards and have passed a checklist of requirements, 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 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.  When visiting different dealers always ask for a copy of the manufacturer's warranty standards and compare them. Certified pre-owned buyers don’t just enjoy the satisfaction of driving a like-new automobile at a bargain price, they also experience the unparalleled limited manufacturer's warranty that comes with it. Keep in mind you won't find a manufacturer-certified used vehicle at a non-franchised used car dealer.

Typical Certifying Procedures

• General Motors (Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Oldsmobile, Pontiac) - General Motors trade-ins, less than four years old with less than 60,000 miles, go through a 110-point inspection to become GM Certified Used Cars.  All worn or broken parts are repaired or replaced, and all fluids are changed.  These GM Certified used vehicles are backed by an extended GM factory warranty and a 3 day 150 mile money-back guarantee.
• Ford (Ford, Lincoln, Mercury) - Ford’s Certified pre-owned vehicles are trade-ins five years old or newer that have no more than 50,000 miles on their odometer. First the vehicle identification number (VIN) is double-checked to make sure all paperwork matches and that all scheduled maintenance has been performed. Then the Ford dealer put the car through a rigorous 115 Point inspection process designed to uncover even the slightest mechanical or cosmetic flaw. Included are the power train, the chassis, all accessories, and finally a thorough cosmetic review—technicians check everything from the body panels to the weather stripping and the carpeting. All worn or broken parts are repaired or replaced, and all fluids are changed. Only then is the vehicle deemed worthy of carrying the Ford Quality Checked Certified Pre-Owned window sticker.

Recommendations - Similar factory-certified warranties are now available from almost every manufacturer.  Certified vehicles will cost more than seemingly identical non-certified examples. The idea is that you recoup the added expense through lower repair bills.  My personal and professional experience with these certified vehicles has been excellent.  Make sure you're getting a manufacturer's warranty that's comparable to available third party extended warranties (some aren't, we recommend Warranty Direct for third party extended warranties - click here to find out why).  Providing you can afford them, factory-certified used vehicles are your best bet for years of reliable trouble-free motoring. Certified Pre-Owned buyers don’t just enjoy the satisfaction of driving a like-new automobile at a bargain price, they also experience an unparalleled limited warranty. Please don't make a $10,000 mistake! We highly recommend that you order an Experian AutoCheck Report for any manufacturer-certified used vehicle under consideration. It's your best protection against buying a used car with costly, hidden problems.