If you have been shopping for a used Toyota vehicle, you may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on to learn about the specifics of the Toyota CPO program.
Toyota Certified Pre-Owned cars are always under seven years old, have less than 85,000 miles, and come complete with an extended seven year/100,000 Powertrain Limited Warranty.
Inspection
In order to ensure that all Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are safe to drive, Toyota subjects all CPO vehicles to a 160-point inspection that includes the following vehicle systems:
- Braking
- Audio and Alarm
- Trunk Compartment
- Engine
- Tires and Suspension
- Exterior and Interior Condition
- Lighting
- Hybrid Components
- Electronic
- Steering
- Frame and Under-body
- Transmission
- Cooling and HVAC
- Emissions
Any parts that do not meet the standards of the Toyota automotive technicians are replaced or reconditioned until the vehicle can become part of the CPO program.
Warranty
Toyota CPO vehicles come with a Powertrain Limited Warranty, which covers repairs or replacements of major engine and transmission components, as well as all internally lubricated parts, for seven years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. The warranty also includes certain benefits such as:
A complete vehicle history report including the service record.
A 24-hour roadside assistance program that offers emergency services including flat tire change, lockout service, jump starts, towing, and emergency fuel delivery.
For details on specific reimbursement amounts, see an authorized Toyota Certified Pre-Owned car dealer.
Pricing
Purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned Toyota vehicle instead of a used vehicle can make a difference in the price at most dealerships. The bottom line will usually be around 8% higher than a regular “used” vehicle.
For example, at the time of this article in April 2016, a used 2012 Toyota Sienna minivan has a Kelley Blue Book value of $16,277; the same vehicle in the Toyota CPO program is priced around $17,627.
Compare Toyota to other Certified Pre-Owned car programs.
Whether you decide to go with a CPO car, it's always wise to have an independent certified mechanic inspect any used car before buying it. Certified Pre-Owned does not mean the car is in perfect condition, and any used car can come with serious issues that aren't apparent to an untrained eye. If you're in the market to buy a used car, schedule a pre-purchase inspection for total peace of mind.
