How to Shop For a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle

At the Dan Tobin Chevrolet Buick GMC dealership, we love helping our customers navigate through the process of buying a new, used, or certified pre-owned vehicle. However, everyone should show up to the buying lot feeling confident and having done their own research. Here are some helpful tips on how to effectively shop for Certified Pre-Owned cars in Columbus Ohio.

Be Flexible or Be Patient.

Certified Pre-Owned vehicles make up a small percentage of the available cars for sale at any given time; therefore, the exact make/model/color of the car that you want may not be available. In this case, it’s best to either be flexible (have a few back up options in mind before shopping) or be patient (wait for the right car to come on the market).

Check Dealership Websites for Inventory.

While you’re waiting for the right vehicle to come on the market, view the makes and models available from Certified Pre-Owned dealers in your area. Browse the inventory to get a sense of the mileage, costs, and selection available.

Know the Allowable Mileage.

Each Certified Pre-Owned program is run and maintained by the carmaker. While these programs typically ensure a certain quality standard for their vehicles, not all CPO programs are created equal! Check the mileage and other quality requirements for each CPO program to see how each stacks up against the other.

Understand the Extended Warranty and Service Contracts.

One of the benefits of buying a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle are the extended warranties and service contracts. Some programs offer 12 month extended warranties, while others offer two-years or greater. Additionally, some contracts cover inspections, bumper-to-bumper warranties, and powertrains. Do your homework and compare warranty options.

Check the Vehicle History.

This one is easy, never buy a used or pre-owned vehicle without requesting an inspection report or crash history. Always better safe than sorry!

If you’re looking for outstanding used car dealers in Columbus Ohio, come visit us at Dan Tobin.

Dan Tobin’s Buick GMC and Chevy dealership sells new, certified pre-owned and used cars, trucks and SUVs at market based pricing.  Our website lets you shop our extensive inventory from the comfort of home, and to easily contact us for more information, to schedule a test drive or request a quote.  Browse one of the largest inventories of new and used cars Columbus Ohio has to offer.