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

“What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” This is a question we receive a lot here at Honda of Kirkland. While all CPO vehicles are used, not all used vehicles are CPO. Put another way, only pre-owned vehicles that meet Honda’s rigorous CPO standards receive certification, which gives you more peace of mind on the roads of Redmond and Woodinville. However, used vehicles have advantages too. In the following guide, we provide a detailed answer to the question, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?”.

CPO vs. Used: Buying Certified Pre-Owned

Like traditional used vehicles, CPO vehicles have been previously owned and driven. What sets them apart is that they have satisfactorily passed the automaker’s stringent certification process, which ensures that certain vehicle standards are met. To qualify for CPO designation, a Honda vehicle must meet the following benchmarks:

• Less than six model years old
• Fewer than 80,000 miles on the odometer
• Successful completion of a 182-point inspection
• Clean CARFAX® Vehicle History Report™

In general, certified used vehicles have fewer miles, but they come at a higher price point than standard used vehicles. At the same time, you’re getting a recent model-year vehicle with all the latest features and capabilities, so a CPO option may elevate your Seattle drives in ways that a regular used vehicle cannot.

CPO vs. Used: Buying Used

A traditional used vehicle has also been previously owned, but there are no restrictions on make, trim, year, mileage, or vehicle history. That doesn’t mean there aren’t benefits to buying used. First of all, used cars are generally more affordable than CPO and new vehicles, which is, of course, the major appeal of buying used. Also, because they have been owned and driven before, you can learn a lot about their reliability, especially if previous owners have kept up on maintenance records.

If you opt for a standard used vehicle over a CPO model, you can take steps to guarantee you’re making a sound investment, even if used options don’t undergo the same rigorous inspections and evaluations. These steps include:

• Consider buying used from a dealer like Honda of Kirkland. While you can always buy privately, a private seller won’t have the reputation and track record of a professional dealership. 
• Look for vehicle issues. If you notice anything amiss and still plan to purchase the car, factor the cost of repairs and parts into what you’ll need to spend. Being aware of vehicle issues can also be helpful in price negotiations with your salesperson.
• Don’t immediately disregard high-mileage vehicles. Even with a high figure on the odometer, a used vehicle can still have a lot of life left in it, as long as you keep up with routine maintenance.

Compare CPO vs. Used Vehicles at Honda of Kirkland

What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned? We’ve covered the differences in black and white, now it’s time to experience both types of vehicles for yourself. Do an in-person comparison today by taking a test drive at Honda of Kirkland. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information, and you can always get a head start on the buying process by applying for financing and valuing your trade-in before your visit to the dealership. We look forward to getting you into the pre-owned vehicle of your dreams, at a price you can afford.