How to Protect Yourself When Buying a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars offer a middle ground between new and used vehicles, combining affordability with added peace of mind. But don’t let the "certified" label fool you into thinking you’re completely covered. Here’s what every smart shopper should do to stay protected when buying a CPO vehicle.
1. Verify the Certification Standards
Not all certified vehicles follow the same rules. Cars certified by the manufacturer typically go through a rigorous inspection process and come with stronger warranties. Dealership-certified cars might not meet the same standards.
Tip: Ask the dealer who is certifying the car—the manufacturer or the dealer? Always request a copy of the inspection checklist.
2. Get the Vehicle History Report
Always review a Carfax or AutoCheck report. Even CPO cars can have checkered pasts:
Prior accidents
Lemon buyback history
Title issues
Previous fleet or rental use
Red Flag:If the car was previously a lemon law buyback vehicle, it might be back on the market. Ask about its full history.
3. Review the Warranty Details
CPO vehicles often come with extended warranties, but not all warranties offer the same coverage.
Questions to Ask:
What is the length and mileage limit of the warranty?
Is the coverage bumper-to-bumper or limited to the powertrain?
Are you responsible for a deductible on repairs?
Where must you take the car for warranty service?
4. Get an Independent Inspection
Even if the car passed a dealer inspection, have it checked by a third-party mechanic. A pre-purchase inspection can catch issues the dealership may have missed or chosen not to disclose.
Pro Tip:A \$100-\$200 inspection today could save you thousands in repairs later.
5. Understand Your Lemon Law Rights
In California, the lemon law may apply to your CPO vehicle if:
It is still under the original manufacturer’s warranty
The CPO warranty was provided by the manufacturer, not just the dealer
If your CPO car has repeated issues or spends excessive time in the shop, you may qualify for lemon law protections.
6. Get Everything in Writing
Don’t rely on verbal promises. Before you drive off the lot, make sure you receive:
The complete warranty agreement
The vehicle history report
The certification and inspection checklist
Any written guarantees or return policies
Buying a certified pre-owned car can be a smart financial move—as long as you do your homework. Following these steps will help ensure you’re getting a reliable vehicle and the protection you deserve.
Need help with a CPO lemon? Reach out to us to find out if your vehicle qualifies under California’s lemon law.