What's a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle?

When shopping for a used car or truck, you will inevitably hear about certified vehicle programs. Every major automaker has one. However, the criteria and benefits of these programs can vary.

Let's look at a concrete example: General Motors of Canada's Certified Pre-Owned Program.

Certified Manufacturer’s Warranty

All GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are sold with a manufacturer's warranty. When you purchase a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, you also receive a 3-month or 5,000 kilometres (whichever comes first) Limited Pre-Owned Vehicle Warranty. This is a standard warranty.

If your budget allows, you can extend it or upgrade to an even more comprehensive warranty with a Certified Used Vehicle Protection Plan. And if you ever decide to sell your vehicle, all unexpired warranties on it will be transferable to the new owner.

150+ Point Certified Inspection

Before hitting the showroom, each used vehicle is carefully examined by a qualified mechanic. This thorough inspection is performed includes 150 points throughout the vehicles, essentially covering everything: powertrain, brakes, suspension, instruments and interior components, body, trim, headlights and taillights, tires and wheels, etc. Several road tests are also performed as part of this inspection.

You may not instinctively think about the condition of the hose clamps, vacuum system, or brake pads, but the technician will.

Certified Roadside Assistance

Every GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is backed by 24-hour roadside assistance for 3 months or 5,000 kilometers (whichever comes first).

If your used vehicle has less than 3 months or 5,000 kilometres remaining on the manufacturer's new vehicle limited warranty, you will receive GM Roadside Assistance for an additional 3 months or 5,000 kilometres from the date the manufacturer's new vehicle limited warranty expires.

Certified Exchange Privilege

If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle, you may exchange it within 30 days or 2,500 kilometres from the date of purchase, whichever comes first, for any other eligible Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle.

If the purchase price of the replacement vehicle is less than the purchase price of the vehicle you are returning, you will receive a credit for the difference. If the purchase price of the replacement vehicle is higher, you simply pay the difference.

OnStar

If you're considering the purchase of a pre-owned GM vehicle, you can try the OnStar Safe and Sound Plan and the connected services included with your vehicle (the trial period does not include hands-free minutes). You get a one-month trial, and if you sign up for a paid plan within 15 days of activation, you can enjoy the first two months free of charge.

In Summary…

A certified pre-owned vehicle is typically a newer, low mileage model (less than four years old), that has passed a full inspection before being offered for sale and comes with an extended manufacturer's warranty. In addition, there are often privileges such as exchangeability or roadside assistance.

On the other hand, some of the rarer models may be harder to find and the purchase price of these cars and trucks is usually more expensive compared to privately sold vehicles.

With Otogo, you have direct access to the largest inventory of certified pre-owned vehicles in Quebec.