What Is a Certified Pre-Owned SUV?
Image by Trac Vu is licensed with Unsplash License
A certified pre-owned SUV is a used SUV that meets manufacturer criteria for condition, performance, age, and/or mileage. The exact specifications or requirements for an SUV depend on the manufacturer. Choosing to purchase a certified pre-owned model often comes with a long list of appealing benefits that may include:
-
Extended warranty coverage.
-
Detailed information about the vehicle’s history.
-
No-cost maintenance and repairs.
-
Special financing options.
Benefits of a Certified Pre-Owned SUV
Buying a used car can be a gamble, especially if you don’t know anything about its maintenance and repair history. But by choosing a certified pre-owned SUV, you can feel more confident about your decision.
Better Value
When you’re spending a lot of money on a vehicle, it’s important to know you’re getting the best bang for your buck. A certified pre-owned SUV delivers better value because you’ll know exactly what you’re getting when you make the purchase. Every certified pre-owned program involves an extensive inspection. This inspection produces a report with detailed information about the SUV’s condition and any potential issues.
Many dealerships also offer reconditioning services as part of the certification process. You can get behind the wheel of a car that looks and feels almost like new while sticking to your budget. The money you spend on a vehicle can also go a little further when you’re shopping in the used category, which may help you afford upgraded features or a higher trim level.
Less Risk
Only models that meet the strict requirements qualify to be sold as certified, so buyers know how well the vehicles will perform in the future. The risk of having something major break down right away is much less. You’re taking on less risk by purchasing a certified pre-owned SUV than buying a pre-owned model that hasn’t gone through a detailed inspection.
Some manufacturers include a CARFAX report with all certified pre-owned models. This report includes information about the SUV’s accident history, maintenance records, and other pertinent details. With a CARFAX report in hand, along with the information from the inspection, you can feel confident that your new (to you) ride will perform well.
Newer Models
Regardless of the make and model, only newer SUVs qualify as certified pre-owned. The exact mileage and year restrictions depend on the manufacturer, but it’s unlikely you’ll find an SUV that’s more than six years old offered under a certified pre-owned program. This means the vehicle you choose will likely have lower mileage and even be in better condition than one offered by a private seller.
Manufacturer Certified Pre-Owned Programs
Each automotive manufacturer has its own certified pre-owned program with unique benefits and perks. At Apple Chevrolet in York, Pennsylvania, we offer certified pre-owned Chevy models to local buyers. Chevrolet’s certified pre-owned program comes with a long list of appealing perks. Only vehicles that are five model years or newer qualify, and they must have fewer than 75,000 miles.
Warranty Coverage
Every certified pre-owned Chevrolet SUV includes a limited powertrain warranty that lasts for six years or 100,000 miles. Additionally, Chevy includes a 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper basic warranty on all new models. If that coverage is still in effect on a certified pre-owned model, it will transfer to the buyer. If the vehicle’s original owner purchased an extended warranty from the manufacturer, it could last for up to six years or 100,000 miles.
Detailed Inspection
As mentioned, a detailed inspection is a critical part of the certification process. Chevrolet requires every certified pre-owned SUV to undergo a 172-point inspection. Only trained and certified technicians can perform this inspection, which includes the following systems and components:
-
Engine compartment.
-
Exterior.
-
Interior.
-
Tires and brake system.
-
Detailing.
-
Functional elements.
-
Underbody.
Hybrid vehicles undergo additional inspections on the hybrid battery and energy control module, starter or generator control module, and auto stop/restart functionality. Technicians also take every vehicle on a road test to confirm its ability to perform under normal driving conditions.
Return or Exchange the Vehicle
If you buy a certified pre-owned Chevrolet SUV and find that it doesn’t quite meet your needs, you can return or exchange it within three days of purchase. Chevy does impose a mileage restriction of 150 miles on all returned or exchanged vehicles.
Additional Benefits
Every certified pre-owned SUV that features the Chevrolet logo also includes a few key perks to make it more appealing to a buyer. The first is protection if you experience a problem while you’re out of town. You can get the car repaired at any authorized service location with no deductible on covered repairs. Chevy also includes two complimentary maintenance services, available within the first two years of ownership or 24,000 miles. Throughout the duration of the limited powertrain warranty, Chevrolet offers free 24/7 roadside assistance, as well as courtesy transportation.
Another benefit is a three-month subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio, allowing you to listen to over 150 different channels at no cost. Along with that subscription, you’ll get a limited trial of OnStar emergency telematics. This service includes advanced diagnostics, turn-by-turn navigation, roadside assistance, and automatic crash response so you can feel confident when you’re on the road.
With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why buyers choose certified pre-owned SUVs. If you’re ready to find the perfect model for your lifestyle, head to Apple Chevrolet in York to explore our selection of certified pre-owned Chevy SUVs. We can also help you secure financing for your purchase with special offers available only to certified pre-owned buyers. Contact us or stop by our dealership today.
Categories:
Pre-Owned Inventory