The Advantages of Certified Used Cars

If money is tight, buying a car may seem like the last thing you can afford. Having reliable transportation is often necessary, so you may not have a choice but to pay monthly for a car if you want the security of a warranty. Though you may first look for a cheap new car, consider looking for a certified used car, since, with a certified used car, you're saving a lot of money but keeping the peace of mind you'd get with a new car. Those are just some of the advantages of buying a certified used car.

Warranty

Certified used cars come with warranties. Though coverage specifications and warranty time varies by car make, warranties will generally cover between 12,000 and 100,000 miles after the first service of the car, according to Mileonecertified.com. They usually cover bumper-to-bumper, which covers mechanical repairs, dents and dings, roadside assistance and power train, which includes the car's transmission, engine and drive train. Unlike used cars, certified used cars come with the protection and assurance that you're driving a like-new car, so the manufacturer likes to back up their quality assurance.

Car Condition

It is safe to conclude that, when purchasing a certified used car, you're going to be buying a car that is running and in excellent condition. Certified used cars are usually newer cars, so you probably won't be able to find a car more than 10 years old that's certified pre-owned. Certified used cars must go through factory inspections that guarantee that the car meets the requirements of a like-new car. When buying a used car, you run the risk of buying a car with a faulty transmission or prior accident damage, but with a certified used car, you're buying a safe car that passed a point system inspection.

Price

Certified used cars are more expensive than their used counterparts, only because you're spending extra on a warranty, low mileage and quality assurance. Overall, you may spend thousands less than buying a new car.

Dealers may also give you a good deal on financing at low rates or with no down payment required.