Summer is in full swing, and that means some of the hottest deals around if you are in the market for a car. This is especially true if you are looking for a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle. These vehicles offer peace of mind that isn’t typically associated with used cars, and are perfect for shoppers looking for newer model vehicles without the new car price tag.
The perks of a CPO go beyond the sticker price. Certified pre-owned vehicles undergo inspection by factory-trained mechanics and usually get necessary refurbishments before making their way back onto a dealer lot. These vehicles meet certain age and mileage requirements set forth by the automaker and come with some form of manufacturer-backed warranty.
Top Picks from Autotrader
Autotrader has rolled out their list of the best CPO deals for July, and there is still plenty of time to get in on the action. The full list of top picks can be found on Autotrader.com. Here, we are going to focus on a few mass market manufacturer CPO programs.
- Kia’s program is extra hot this month. Through the end of July, qualified shoppers can get 1.9 percent interest for up to 36 months on any Kia CPO models. The 2016 Kia Optima is pictured to the right.
- Toyota’s CPO program offers two warranty benefits for drivers who are looking for a used vehicle with the peace of mind from a manufacturer-backed warranty. There's the powertrain warranty, which lasts up to seven years or 100,000 miles from the car's original sale date, and the one-year or 12,000-mile comprehensive warranty. Now through October, the fuel-efficient Toyota Camry Hybrid is being offered with 1.9 percent interest for up to 60 months.
- Mazda’s program is offing two warranties for certified pre-owned shoppers—a seven-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a comprehensive warranty that lasts one year or 12,000 miles. As a special incentive, now through September, Mazda is offering qualified buyers 1.49 percent interest for up to 36 months on all CPO vehicles.
- MINI’s CPO program is offering even more incentives than its warranty this month. Through the end of July, qualified drivers can get 0.9 percent interest on certified pre-owned 2013 and 2014 models. As a special bonus for drivers who are looking to pay cash, MINI is offering up to $500 cash back on any model year 2013 or 2014 CPO vehicle.
Watch for CPO Fakers
When shopping for a CPO vehicle, it is important to know just who is certifying the car. You will find a number of “dealer certified” vehicles out there; these are not the same thing as a vehicle that has been certified by the automaker, and will not carry the same warranties. Make sure you are getting a manufacturer-backed deal. The best way to do this is to shop at a franchised dealership for the brand of vehicle you are looking for.
The Bottom Line
If you are in the market for a vehicle, a certified pre-owned car can be a great way to go. There are many programs out there to help you get the best deal on those CPOs, if you qualify.
If you are having trouble qualifying because of credit issues, Auto Credit Express can help. We have a network of dealers prepared to help people in numerous credit situations. So, don’t hold back any longer, fill out our online auto loan request form to get started today!
