When you’re shopping for your next ride, the term Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) gets tossed around a lot—usually with a shiny price tag just a bit higher than a regular used car.

But what exactly does it mean? Is it just marketing fluff? Or does it come with some real perks?

Let’s break it down so you can decide what’s best for you.

Used Cars: The Basics

A used car is, well, used. It’s had at least one previous owner. It may or may not have been inspected before hitting the lot, and its history can vary—anything from a weekend cruiser to a long-haul commuter.

At Miramar Car Center, all of our used cars are inspected, cleaned, and prepped before they ever make it to the sales floor. But they don’t necessarily come with warranties or extras unless you add them on.

In short: Used cars are your most budget-friendly option. You just want to make sure you’re buying from a dealership that’s transparent about the car’s history and condition. (Spoiler: we are.)

Certified Pre-Owned: A Step Up

Now here’s where CPO earns its name.

A Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is:

  • Late model (usually under 5 years old)

  • Low mileage

  • Thoroughly inspected—often with a 100+ point checklist

  • Backed by a warranty (from the manufacturer or the dealer)

  • Sometimes comes with perks like roadside assistance or trial subscriptions

Basically, a CPO car is a used car that’s been vetted, refreshed, and given a seal of approval—making it almost like a new car in a slightly used wrapper.

Why Go Certified?

  • Peace of mind. You know it’s been inspected, reconditioned, and approved.

  • Added warranty. Many CPO vehicles still carry part of the factory warranty plus additional coverage.

  • Better financing options. Lenders often offer lower rates on CPO cars compared to standard used vehicles.

So… Which One’s Right for You?

  • Choose used if you’re looking for the lowest price possible and don’t mind a bit of extra homework on the vehicle’s history.

  • Go CPO if you want something close to new with extra protection and you’re okay with spending a little more for peace of mind.

Either way, buying from Miramar Car Center means you’re getting a quality vehicle, priced right, with a team that stands behind what it sells.

Stop by. Take a test drive. Ask questions.
We’re not here to upsell—we’re here to help you find what fits.