Don’t sacrifice peace of mind when buying a used car! Certified pre-owned cars provide the reliability, convenience, and affordability that car buyers need when searching for the right vehicles for their needs. When you shop for a pre-owned car at a certified pre-owned car dealer, you know you can get the best deal on a quality car, SUV or pick-up. Certified pre-owned cars meet a specific set of requirements in order to fit into this program, often including a multipoint comprehensive inspection a limit on the number of odometer miles, and the age of the car. Additional perks and warranty coverage may also be included. As each certified pre-owned car program depends on the brand of vehicle, it can be difficult to know which models offer the most value in the current market. The three most popular certified pre-owned car programs include Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. Ready to find a quality car that won’t break the budget? Read on to find out what you need to know about the best certified pre-owned programs and available models.
Audi
If you’ve never been able to afford a brand-new Audi, getting a pre-owned Audi at a certified pre-owned dealer might be the answer to your prayers. The Audi Certified Pre-Owned Program provides a quality vehicle that is reliable and comes with little risk. Already offering the best dependability ratings on the market, you can safely put your trust in Audi. Their program not only offers Audi vehicles at incredibly affordable prices, but also provides you a ton of protection. Included with program is 24-hour roadside assistance, a loaner car in the event your vehicle needs repair, and out-of-town repair and service. The 2017 Audi A4 2.0T Premium Sedan is a popular certified pre-owned car, with sleek styling, a comfortable interior, and a powerful engine. This 2017 sedan is offered for around $28,000 pre-owned, and includes a limited bumper-to-bumper one year warranty with unlimited mileage. Offering an impressive amount of perks, the Audi certified pre-owned dealer program is easily the best offered.
Highlights:
- Certified Audi program offers luxury with low risk.
- Buyers can get out-of-town service and even loaner cars.
- Certified pre-owned cars get 24-hour roadside assistance.
Mercedes-Benz
Another auto maker that offers similarly great reliability is Mercedes-Benz. Here, you’ll find some of the best deals on certified pre-owned luxury cars. A new Mercedes-Benz may not be cheap, but by buying from a certified pre-owned dealer it’s much more affordable than you might think. Their certified pre-owned dealers can finance you with a pre-owned vehicle in terrific condition with an interest rate as low as 1.99%. Every Mercedes you purchase at a certified pre-owned dealer comes with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage. On top of this, you’ll get 24-hour roadside assistance and expense coverage in case your vehicle breaks down, which will grant you $300 per day to spend on lodging and food. To qualify for these perks, your purchased vehicle must be under 75,000 miles and be no older than six years. There are many certified pre-owned Mercedes vehicles that are more affordable than ever. For instance, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a high tech, powerful, and luxurious sedan that offers quality for less than $30,000. This popular luxury sedan comes in a coupe or sedan, as well as diesel or gas. Other popular Mercedes-Benz certified pre-owned models include the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300 and the 2014 S550.
Highlights:
- Cheaper way to get behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz.
- Certified pre-owned autos come with five-year warranties.
- $300 allowances when certified vehicles break down away from home.
BMW
If you are looking for sleek and stylish cars, BMW certified pre-owned dealers are an exceptional choice. Financing rates start as low as 1.99% APR for 60 months. Their program features a protection plan that provides coverage for one year with unlimited miles. Additional perks include 24/7 roadside assistance with no mileage restrictions and the BMW Assist Safety Plan that offers emergency service assistance at the push of a button. A newer popular BMW certified pre-owned model is the 2016 BMW 2 Series Coupe, a two-door sedan that retails for less than $27,000. A 2017 BMW 3 Series 320i xDrive is a larger sedan that is priced at right around $26,000,. Check out a certified pre-owned BMW dealer near you to learn more.
Highlights:
- A wide range of certified preowned options.
- Financing as low as 1.99 percent APR for 60 months.
- BMW Safety Assist Plans with qualifying vehicles.
Best Used Cars Under 5k
It might sound too good to be true, but it is possible to find a car within a limited budget and still score good quality and value. The best used cars under $5,000 are a little older and may show a bit more wear and tear, but they offer reliability, affordability, and even a few perks that would be difficult to find elsewhere. One of the most popular of these models is the 2004 Subaru Outback, which combines the space and cargo area of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan. The 2005 Honda Civic is also a good choice, with a sportier style and great gas mileage in a sedan or coupe that is just plain fun to drive. The 2003 Toyota Camry rounds out the list, with a stellar reputation and a strong resale value. This sedan is well-built, comfortable, and a deal at under $5,000.
Highlights:
- Honda, Toyota, and Subaru are strong contenders.
- Model years are from early 2000s.
- Smaller sedans that are fun to drive.
Hyundai Veloster
Want a barely used certified car with plenty of style? The 2019 Hyundai Veloster was redesigned both inside and out, making it a great purchase at preowned prices. Purchased new, this car carried a base MSRP around $19,000, but certified preowned models with low mileage can be found for less than $14,000. Earlier models years can be found below $10,000. The newer Velosters have 2.0-liter base engines, excellent handling, and surprising acceleration from turbocharged engines. Performance-minded buyers should keep their eyes out for the Hyundai Veloster N which gets added perks such as firmer suspension, better tires, and a 250-horsepower engine.
Highlights:
- Sporty appearance and handling.
- Newer models were redesigned.
- Watch for used N trims for greater performance.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a pre-owned car, then start with one of the highly reputable automakers mentioned above. Most dealerships have pre-owned lots with vehicles that have been inspected and restored to tip-top shape, but some dealerships are just more well-known for taking care of their customers and backing up their work. Always do your homework when shopping around for certified pre-owned cars, but these top-rated dealerships are each great places to start looking for your next dependable vehicle.