What’s the Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned?

If you’re in the market for a used car, you’ll likely notice that some vehicles have the distinction of being certified pre-owned, and some don’t. What does this mean? Does it make a difference when you’re purchasing a used car? Does this distinction differ between makes? We have the answers to your questions below.

What Does Certified Pre-Owned Mean?

Simply put, certified pre-owned vehicles are gently used or newer-used vehicles that have been factory certified and are available for purchase at dealerships selling that vehicle’s make. For example, a certified pre-owned Lexus would be available at a Lexus car dealership.

Quality

Though these vehicles are typically priced higher than other used cars without the distinction of certified pre-owned, that price difference exists for a good reason. These vehicles go through rigorous inspections and must meet criteria of a certain standard to be certified. That means you know you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Different manufacturers may have different criteria that need to be met, but each brand’s standards are high.

Value

Because these certified pre-owned vehicles are thoroughly inspected and repaired if necessary, they don’t depreciate in value as rapidly as other vehicles without this distinction. Your car will hold onto its value a lot longer, which is an important consideration for every car owner.

Assurance

If all this isn’t enough, certified pre-owned vehicles also come with warranties. The nice thing about these warranties is that they aren’t standalone. They enhance whatever warranty the vehicle already has on it. These warranties add to the existing coverage, extend the existing coverage or both.

Financing

Buying a used vehicle without this certification may limit the ways you’re able to pay for it. Often, these listings require full payment via check, cash, or money order. With certified pre-owned vehicles, many dealers let you finance or lease the vehicles directly from them.

What Can You Expect in a Used Car That Isn’t Certified Pre-Owned?

Used car listings that don’t have a certified pre-owned designation can’t promise the quality and value of that vehicle. You can’t be sure what if any, inspections or checks have been performed. An unknown issue the original owner may be unaware of could be lurking and ready to spring up after your purchase.

You’ll likely pay less for a used vehicle that isn’t certified pre-owned, but by doing so, you’re taking a gamble. That isn’t to say all people or companies selling used cars are careless or malicious. Many people want to sell their cars themselves, and those cars may run perfectly for years. You simply don’t know.

You may end up paying a few thousand dollars less for a used car, and the next thing you know, you’re making up that few thousand and then some in repairs or, worse, needing to replace the vehicle altogether. By investing the extra money in a certified pre-owned vehicle, you get peace of mind.

What Does the Lexus Certified Pre-Owned Program Look Like?

The Lexus certified pre-owned program is called L/Certified, and it has many unique qualities that make it the best program out there. To start, 2023 marks the sixth year in a row that L/Certified was named “Best Certified Pre-Owned Program” by U.S. News & World Report. It has held its title due to the length of its warranty, the long list of benefits it offers, and its overall dependability. Lexus ensures you’re getting the best of the best and wants to keep you safely on the road in a car you’ll love for a long time.

Certification

L/Certified vehicles go through Lexus’ thorough inspection process, conducted only by Lexus-trained technicians at Lexus dealerships. The people who know these cars best conduct these checks, meaning you can rest assured that nothing is missed. Vehicles need to pass every single item on the inspection checklist to qualify, with no half-marks allowed.

That checklist includes 161 items that scour every little detail of the engine, exterior, interior, electronics, safety devices, and undercarriage. On top of that, the vehicle must pass a road test with flying colors. Specific points they check for include:

• Body damage/dents/dings, paint chips, and scratches.
• Seatbelts extend and contract smoothly.
• Wiper blades clean properly.
• Spare tire size, sidewall condition, tread depth, and air pressure.
• No excessive fuel pump noise.
• Tilt/telescopic steering wheel.
• Glove compartment lamp.
• First aid kit.
• Non-completed recalls.

You can sleep well at night knowing no issue has been missed and no area has been unchecked.

LexusCare

LexusCare is a comprehensive suite of incredible benefits unlike anything else you’ll see on the market. These benefits include:

• Expansive warranty: The warranty includes benefits such as a complimentary loaner car and no deductible, which means no repair costs except for excluded components.
• Complimentary maintenance services: From the day of purchase or lease, the next four factory-recommended services for two years or 20,000 miles (whichever comes first) are free to you.
• Comprehensive roadside assistance: This includes services such as flat tire change, lockout, jump-start, and up to 3-gallon fuel delivery; unlimited towing to the nearest Lexus facility; and a free app to help you coordinate assistance on the go.
• Trip protection: If your vehicle experiences any mechanical issues while you’re traveling, Lexus offers reimbursement for up to $200 a day for up to three days for meal expenses, lodging, and transportation. They’ll also reimburse you $50 a day for up to five days for a rental car.
• Connected services trial subscriptions: This includes Service Connect, available through the Lexus app. Service Connect keeps you informed on the status of your Lexus, allowing you to see fuel levels, tire pressure, and more. It also lets you know when you’re due for service. For select models, Service Connect is included for up to 10 years.
• And more.

Ready To Purchase Your L/Certified Lexus?

At Eskridge Lexus, we have a large selection of L/Certified vehicles you can take for a test drive today. If it’s not on the lot, you can browse our online inventory. When you find what you’re looking for, you’ll end up driving away with the car of your dreams and the peace of mind only Lexus L/Certified vehicles can provide.

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