
Certified pre-owned cars, also known as CPOs, are a category of used vehicles that have been inspected and repaired to meet or exceed the standards set forth by a dealership/manufacturer like us here at McLarty Daniel. If you are interested in purchasing a used vehicle, such as a van, truck, or SUV, you should look into this category. These days, the vast majority of major vehicle brands provide their customers with a CPO program. Although these programs have a few things in common, they are very different from one another depending on the brand. There is typically a correlation between the price of a vehicle and the amenities and perks that they offer.
What exactly does it imply when someone says that an automobile is “certified pre-owned”?
CPO vehicles are late-model automobiles that have minimal mileage and have not been significantly damaged in the past. When they are brought back to one of our six dealerships, an inspection is performed on them, and if necessary, they are reconditioned and repaired. They are made available to the general public with a guarantee that is supported by the original manufacturer. Any dealer who sells certified pre-owned vehicles could also provide additional perks, such as reduced interest rates on financing or waived initial payment requirements.
Before you buy, know that every certified vehicle from McLarty Daniel has gone through a checklist of 132 points:
- VIN Inspection
- Service Recalls (OASIS) Performed
- Vehicle History Report Obtained
- Scheduled Maintenance Performed
- Vehicle Emissions Sticker (Applicable States)
- Road Test
- Engine Starts and Idles Properly
- Remote Start System Operation
- Engine Accelerates and Cruises Properly/Smoothly
- Engine Noise Normal (Cold/Hot & High/Low Speeds)
- Auto/Manual Transmission/Transaxle Operation
- Auto/Manual Transmission/Transaxle Noise
- Shift Interlock Operates Properly
- Drive Axle/Transfer Case Operation Noise Normal
- Clutch Operates Properly
- Steers Normally (Response, Centering and Free Play)
- Body and Suspension Squeaks and Rattles
- Struts/Shocks Operate Properly
- Brakes/ABS Operate Properly
- Cruise Control
- Gauges Operate Properly
- Driver Select/Memory Profile Systems
- No Abnormal Wind Noise
- No Evidence of Flood, Fire, Major or Hail Damage
- Body Panel Inspection
- Bumper/Fascia Inspection
- Doors, Hood, Decklid/Tailgate and Roof Inspection
- Doors, Hood, Decklid/Tailgate Alignment
- Automatic/Manual Release Mechanisms, Hinges, Prop Rod/Gas Struts Operate Properly
- Power Liftgate, Power-Sliding Door Operation
- Grille, Trim and Roof Rack
- Grille, Trim and Roof Rack Inspection
- Deployable Running Boards
- Windshield, Side and Rear-Window Glass Inspection
- Wiper Blade Replacement
- Outside Mirror Inspection
- Front-End Exterior Lights
- Back-End Exterior Lights
- Side Exterior Lights
- Hazard Lights
- Auto On/Off Lighting
- Trailer Lamp Connector Operation
- Airbags
- Safety Belts
- 4B Audio and Alarm Systems
- Radio, Cassette, CD and Speakers
- Antenna
- Alarm/Theft-Deterrent System
- Navigation System
- Air Conditioning System
- Heating System
- Defog/Defrost
- Clock
- Tilt/Telescopic Steering Wheel
- Steering Column Lock
- Steering Wheel Controls
- Horn
- Warning Chimes
- Instrument Panel and Warning Lights
- Wipers
- Washers
- Interior Courtesy, Dome and Map Lights
- Manual Outside Rearview Mirrors, Power
- Blind Spot Information System
- Rear View Camera
- Active Park Assist
- Rear Entertainment System
- Power Outlets and Lighter
- Ashtrays
- Glove Box and Center Armrest/Console
- Sun Visors, Vanity Mirror and Light
- Adjustable Pedals (if equipped)
- Interior Odor-Free
- Carpet
- Floor Mats
- Door Trim and Door Panels
- Headliner
- Seat Upholstery
- Seat and Head Restraint Adjustment
- Folding Seats
- Heated Seats
- Integrated Child Safety Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Convertible Top
- Door Handles and Release Mechanisms
- Remote Entry System and Push-Button Start System
- Door Locks
- Child Safety Locks
- Window Controls
- Remote Decklid and Fuel Filler Door Release
- Carpet, Trim and Cargo Net
- Luggage Compartment/Cargo Area Light
- Vehicle Jack and Tool Kit
- Spare Tire Size/Type and Sidewall Inspection
- Spare Tire Tread Depth/Air Pressure Inspection
- Tire Inflator Kit
- Emergency Trunk-Lid Release
- Perform Self-Test for all CMDTCs
- Engine Oil/Filter Change and Chassis Lu
- Coolant
- Brake Fluid
- Automatic Transaxle/Transmission Flu
- Transfer Case Fluid
- Drive Axle Fluid
- Power Steering Fluid
- Manual Transaxle/Transmission
- Washer Fluid
- Air Conditioning System Charge
- Fluid Leaks
- Hoses, Lines and Fittings
- Belts
- Wiring
- Oil in Air Cleaner Housing
- Water, Sludge or Engine Coolant in Oil
- Oil Pressure
- Relative Cylinder Compression Test/Po
- Timing Belt
- Engine Mounts
- Inspect Turbocharger Air Cooler
- Radiator
- Pressure-Test Radiator Cap and Radiator
- Cooling Fans, Clutches and Motors
- Water Pump
- Coolant Recovery Tank
- Cabin Air Filter
- Fuel Pump Noise Normal
- Fuel Pump Pressure
- Fuel Filter
- Engine Air Filter
- Starter Operation
- Ignition System
- Battery
What are the benefits of purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle?
The fact that CPO vehicles have low mileage, are relatively new, and have only been lightly used is the primary benefit of purchasing one. After being purchased brand new from auto dealerships, they are usually vehicles traded in by a customer once, or before, a lease is up. If you are concerned about whether or not your new purchase has been in an accident or has survived a flood, keep in mind that the majority of CPO programs sponsored by manufacturers do not include vehicles that have been in either of those scenarios in their coverage of certified pre-owned vehicles. Before the vehicle is driven off the lot for the second time, having it examined at the dealership can also help eliminate the need for significant repairs. If you want to get a second opinion, you can also seek an inspection from an independent garage; however, you may be responsible for paying for this examination on your own. Because the expense of one big repair may easily destroy a budget, purchasing a warranty is almost always a wise decision. There is also the possibility that CPO vehicles will come with warranties or extended warranties. For instance, if a pre-owned certified vehicle was originally sold with a factory warranty that covered it for three years or 45,000 miles when it was new, many dealerships that sell certified pre-owned vehicles will extend the coverage beginning on the day that the certified pre-owned vehicle is purchased once more. CPOs frequently qualify for more favorable financing conditions from the dealer, as well as from banks and credit unions. They have a lower likelihood of collapsing before the debt is paid off, making them a safer proposition from a financial perspective.
Are CPOs good deals?
Because of the inspections, warranties, and the fact that the vehicle is not very old and does not have a lot of miles on it, certified pre-owned vehicles are typically thought of as being good investments. This is because a significant portion of the risk that comes with purchasing a used vehicle has been eliminated. Consider pursuing the certified pre-owned route whether you want anything in the luxury class or something more affordably priced.
When it comes to deciding which choice is ideal for you, we can help! The brand, model, trim level, fuel economy, and how the vehicle fits in your price range are just a few things to keep in mind when purchasing a new car. The McLarty Daniel team can assist you in making the best selection for your circumstances by discussing car options, warranties, payment plans, and possible CPO programs. We have a wide selection of certified pre-owned vehicles on our website!

