BMW Certified Pre-Owned vs Used Cars
What is BMW Certified Pre-Owned?
Simply put, the BMW certified pre-owned (CPO) program — called BMW Certified — is the best way to ensure that you’re getting the most possible value from your purchase of a pre-owned BMW. Before a vehicle is labeled as BMW Certified, it must have fewer than 60,000 miles on it. From there, it is subject to a comprehensive inspection by factory-trained technicians, a review of its vehicle history report, and a thorough road test before it is offered for sale. Those extra criteria distinguish it from a traditional used vehicle, which is often sold as-is, without any detailed examination.
BMW Certified Pre-Owned vs. Used BMW
| BMW Certified | Used BMW | |
|---|---|---|
| Inspection Standards | Comprehensive inspection by factory-trained technicians | Basic safety check |
| Warranty Coverage | Remaining factory warranty, plus one-year of additional unlimited-mile coverage | Remaining factory warranty only |
| Vehicle Condition | Guaranteed by CPO program standards and inspection | Variable, and typically sold as-is |
| Financing Options | Promotional rates often available, done through BMW Financial Services | Standard rates, done through a bank, credit union, or other lender |
| Risk Level | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Price Difference | Added up-front costs, typically $1,500-$3,000 | Basic market rate |
Though a certified pre-owned BMW will cost more up front than a standard used vehicle, the CPO program benefits can more than make up for any difference over the long term. Its lower interest rates are one obvious source of savings, but warranty-covered issues and a broadly-lower cost of ownership can help the BMW Certified vehicle pay for itself as well.
Is BMW CPO Worth It?
Though each BMW driver’s situation is unique, most have found that the benefits of the Certified BMW program far exceed any initial expense.
When you purchase a certified pre-owned vehicle, you can do so with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that its performance and condition is backed by a company with more than a century of engineering excellence behind it. After all, your BMW is essentially as good as new in most significant ways — it has been thoroughly inspected inside and out by factory-trained technicians and given a seal of approval that no other manufacturer can match. Even in the event that something does go wrong, you’ll be covered by added warranty protection, as well as additional CPO benefits like roadside assistance and trip-interruption benefits.
From a purely bottom-line point of view, there are several ways that the certified pre-owned option saves drivers money. There’s a drastically-reduced repair risk, given the age and confirmed condition of the BMW, the possibility that any needed repairs are covered by the additional warranty protection, and preferable financing arrangements. And, should you choose to sell your BMW at some point, it will typically hold more resale value than a comparable used vehicle.
When a Used BMW Might Make Sense
Though Certified BMWs offer plenty of benefits for drivers, there’s no one-size-fits all solution when shopping for a BMW. In fact, there are plenty of situations where going with a standard used BMW might make more sense. Here are a few examples:
Budget Buyers: If finances are of paramount importance, a used BMW generally offers the more beneficial up-front cost, which allows you to drive off in your very own BMW with the least possible out-of-pocket expense.
Short-Term Ownership: Similarly, if you only plan on owning the BMW for a short time, it might not be worth it to buy a BMW Certified vehicle, since many of the program’s benefits are geared towards longer-term savings. Buying used allows you to turn the vehicle over quickly, with a minimum of hassle.
Older Model Preference: Have an affinity for a specific model year? That’s another situation where a used purchase makes sense, given that the Certified BMW mileage limit of 60,000 means that it will typically only include newer models.
Why Choose Germain BMW of Naples
Whether you’re in the market for a certified pre-owned BMW or simply want to buy used, Germain BMW of Naples is your partner throughout the vehicle shopping process. After all, drivers from Bonita Springs, North Naples, and Estero have consistently been impressed with our large selection of BMW models, as well as our helpful team that has you covered from the moment you enter our showroom, right until you drive your new vehicle off the lot. Contact us or stop in today — we can’t wait to get started!