If you’re looking for other options than buying a new Nissan, you may be asking yourself, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” After all, these terms sound pretty similar. However, there are a few important distinctions that you’ll want to know before you make a decision. Advantage Nissan has outlined the basics of buying Nissan used cars vs certified pre-owned below, as well as the key differences between the two options. Read on for the details, then check out our online inventory of used and certified pre-owned vehicles to find your perfect match!

Used Car Buying: What You Need to Know

If you’re on a budget or looking to save money on your next vehicle around Port Orchard, then Nissan used cars are typically the most affordable option. They’ve been owned before, so they typically vary in make, mileage, year, and more. Mileage can sometimes seem like a risk for buyers – say, if a used car comes with 100,000 miles – but plenty of vehicles can last this long with regular service. At Advantage Nissan, we have a wide selection of used models for budget-conscious drivers near Gig Harbor.

If you’re interested in a Nissan used car, you’ll want to keep the following in mind:

• At Advantage Nissan, we hand-pick and inspect all of our Nissan used cars to make sure you get the best deal possible. You may not get that level of service with a private seller, since OEMs don’t normally require inspection of used cars before they sell them. If you want to go the route of a private seller, be extra cautious.
• Do a scan of the used car and look for any immediate issues. If you find any, tell the seller right away. This is because if you choose to buy the car even though you know it has problems, you’ll be responsible for paying for repairs.
• A high-mileage car might sound like a risk, but as long as it’s been regularly serviced, a vehicle can potentially last upwards of 200,000 miles. High-mileage cars tend to be more affordable than others, so they’re a great option if you’re on a budget.

Buying a CPO Car: What You Need to Know

Certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are a step higher than your typical used car. Like used cars, they have also had previous owners, but they’ve undergone rigorous inspection processes backed by manufacturer warranties and performed by certified technicians. CPO vehicles are the top line of used cars, only becoming certified after they’re confirmed to meet the OEM’s high program standards. Here are a few standards that tend to be part of an OEM program:

• The model year is within five years of the current model year
• Generally has less than 80,000 miles, sometimes up to 100,000 miles 
• Multi-point inspection
• Offered with extended warranties and/or limited powertrain warranties

CPO cars tend to be newer vehicles with less mileage than typical used cars, which makes them a bit pricer. However, they are still a more affordable option than purchasing a new car and come with more updated features than their used counterparts. 

Shop Pre-Owned Vehicles with Advantage Nissan

Feel free to contact our office with any questions you have about Nissan used cars or CPO vehicles. You can also schedule a test drive around Port Orchard or schedule a visit to our showroom to see our selection of used and CPO vehicles up close!