When you accumulate enough money to purchase a car, the first thought that comes to mind is to purchase a brand-new vehicle rather than a used vehicle. However, the fact that the number of brand-new cars is decreasing means that we are left with just secondhand cars. Therefore, to prevent that very reason it is advised to prioritize buying CPO cars over second-hand used cars.
Before we surf through the tips that can help to prevent you from being ripped off, you should know the difference between CPO and a second-hand car.
CPO and a second-hand car
CPO stands for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle. Purchasing a CPO vehicle differs from purchasing a used vehicle. A certified pre-owned automobile is the next best thing to buying a new car. The precise definition of what qualifies as a certified pre-owned vehicle varies by manufacturer. They are usually under the age of six and have traveled less than 85,000 kilometers.
Purchasing a used automobile from a friendly neighbor, on the other hand, may appear appealing due to the reduced price, but you will be relying primarily on his word, save from a promise that it has been well-maintained and receipts to verify this claim. There is no such thing as a warranty or support.
Which car is better, CPO or Second-hand?
When we choose CPO, we know that the components will be of high quality and long-lasting. It’s because the automobile will have passed a multi-point inspection as stated by the manufacturer and will come with an extended warranty or will be covered under your current warranty. You’ll escape a new car’s hefty early depreciation. Many CPO vehicles also come with additional features such as lease agreements, complimentary maintenance, and roadside support. On the contrary, other than the seller’s oral claims, a used car provides no such warranty.
Nevertheless, if you want to avoid being conned out of a large sum of money, consider the following tips when purchasing a used car, as recommended by the experts at Mercedes Workshop Dubai!
The Tips that you need to Follow:
Test Drive
The first thing you should do is do a test drive in the car on your own for the first time. As a result, experts advise that you should always take a vehicle for a test drive before purchasing it. Some folks are so eager to buy a car that they never test drive it before making the purchase. So, when you go for a test drive in your soon-to-be-owned car, keep the following in mind:
- Keep an eye out for any strange squeaks, noises, or rattles that could lead to future repairs.
- Always keep a sharp eye out for any form of previous damage to the vehicle.
- Check the inside of the body panels and doorjambs for any paint color variations.
- Flood-damaged cars should be avoided at all costs because water is a computer’s worst enemy and will void your warranty.
- Always be sure to check the seat’s leather quality. Because the quality of the leather reflects the car’s maintenance condition.
Get the title of the car checked
When purchasing a CPO vehicle, ensure that the seller possesses the vehicle’s actual title with a lien release. Because it isn’t, this car isn’t for you because it will land you in legal trouble in the near future. Experts advise against buying a vehicle with UCC files, a vehicle that has been destroyed, a vehicle that has been repurchased after flood damage, or a vehicle that has had any other type of trouble.
Car’s Background History
Make a strong case for obtaining a vehicle’s background history report. Such reports would tell you whether the car has ever been in a crash, whether there are any maintenance records, and how many previous owners the vehicle has had.
Such detailed reports can actually cause a great impact on the value of the car, therefore, if you plan on buying a CPO car you better know everything about the car.
Check-in with the Local Dealer
Checking to see if the car is stolen or not is also vital, even if it is not a must. You must check-in with the local dealer with the vehicle’s identifying number, or VIN, in order to get the fact cleared.
Get your car inspected by an expert
Last but not least, before purchasing an automobile, get it inspected by a professional. It’s usually a good idea to have the vehicle inspected by the seller. The findings of this inspection will aid you in negotiating a reasonable price. If the car requires extensive repairs, it is recommended that you pass on this vehicle unless you are familiar with auto repair.
It is recommended that you should not purchase the car if the seller refuses to allow you to view it.