What is the Difference Between Used & Certified Pre-Owned?

2020 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 driving on a wooded road

If you’re wondering, “What’s the difference between used and certified pre-owned cars?” You’re in the right place. There are essential distinctions between CPO vs. used, and knowing them can help you make a wise purchasing decision based on your needs for your City of Industry drives. Here the auto prose at Puente Hills Mitsubishi answers the question, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned?” When you’re ready to start car shopping for your next ride, contact us! We’re here for you!

Used Cars: What to Know

Used cars are previously owned and vary considerably by brand, trim level, model, year, mileage, condition, and more. They are typically more affordable than new and CPO vehicles. Puente Hills Mitsubishi, near Los Angeles has an impressive selection of used cars on our lot right now, including many priced under $30k

One thing to consider about used cars is the number of miles on the odometer. Some Long Beach drivers think that a vehicle with 100,000 miles is too risky, but many vehicles last hundreds of thousands of miles with regular service. When you’re shopping for a pre-owned vehicle, keep the following things in mind: 

  • At Puente Hills Mitsubishi, we want our customers to get the highest value for their dollar, so we hand-pick our used models. Please navigate a private sale cautiously because a private seller doesn’t have a reputation to uphold and isn’t a brand-authorized dealership like Puente Hills Mitsubishi.
  • Discuss any concerns before you buy. If you plan to purchase the vehicle, be sure to budget for any needed or unexpected repairs. 
  • Ask to have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic before you make an offer. 

Buying a CPO Vehicle: What to Know

For many reasons, certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are a favorite on Irvine streets. CPO vs. used cars are thoroughly inspected pre-owned models backed by a manufacturer warranty. They’re the gold standard of used cars, and only certain vehicles qualify for the destination. These are some of the requirements for a vehicle to earn the Mitsubishi CPO designation.

  • The model year is within five years of the current year
  • Have less than 60,000 miles on the odometer
  • Pass a 160 multi-point inspection
  • Have a clean title and CARFAX report

To summarize, CPO cars are newer models with less mileage but cost more than standard used cars. Still, they’re more affordable than a new car. A certified pre-owned vehicle is ideal if you’re looking for the most recent technology and features at a more affordable price!

Shop for Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles at Puente Hills Mitsubishi

Now that we’ve answered the question, “What is the difference between used and certified pre-owned cars?” we invite you to explore our CPO and used vehicle for sale at our dealership in City of Industry. You can start the process by completing an online finance application. Why wait? Get started now! 


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