Navigating the used car market can be daunting. The term “used car” often conjures images of vehicles with questionable histories and potential maintenance nightmares. However, Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) programs offer a beacon of assurance in this landscape. To earn the CPO badge, a used vehicle must meet stringent criteria set by the manufacturer, including age and mileage limits, and pass a rigorous inspection. But with varying benefits and warranties across brands, the question arises: which car brand offers the best CPO program?
This article delves into some of the top non-luxury CPO programs available, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision when considering a certified pre-owned vehicle. We’ll explore key aspects like warranty coverage, inspection processes, and extra perks to identify programs that truly stand out.
Top Non-Luxury CPO Programs: A Detailed Comparison
When it comes to non-luxury brands, several automakers offer compelling CPO programs. Here’s a closer look at some of the leading contenders:
1) Hyundai: Extensive Warranty and Roadside Assistance
Hyundai’s CPO program is particularly noteworthy for its exceptional warranty coverage. It leverages the remainder of Hyundai’s impressive original warranties: a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Key Program Highlights:
- Warranty: Remainder of original five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties.
- Eligibility: Vehicles under 5 years old with less than 60,000 miles and a clean AutoCheck history.
- Inspection: 150-point inspection.
- Roadside Assistance: 10 years/unlimited miles.
- Deductible: $50 for warranty repairs.
- Additional Perks: 3-month SiriusXM subscription, trip interruption reimbursement.
Edmunds’ Take: Edmunds highlights Hyundai’s program as exceeding typical non-luxury CPO offerings, particularly in powertrain and bumper-to-bumper warranty duration. The 10-year powertrain coverage is three years beyond the average, and the bumper-to-bumper coverage is also superior. Coupled with exceptional roadside assistance, Hyundai’s CPO program is arguably industry-leading, especially when compared to most competitors outside of its corporate partner, Kia.
2) Kia: Mirroring Hyundai’s Powertrain Prowess with Added Transferability
Kia’s CPO program closely mirrors Hyundai’s in powertrain warranty strength, benefiting from the same corporate umbrella. It distinguishes itself with transferability and a slightly more rigorous inspection.
Key Program Highlights:
- Warranty: Remainder of the original 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, plus one year/12,000-mile “Platinum” comprehensive coverage starting from the CPO purchase date.
- Eligibility: Vehicles under 5 years old with less than 60,000 miles and a clean AutoCheck history.
- Inspection: 164-point inspection.
- Roadside Assistance: 10 years/unlimited miles.
- Deductible: $50 for warranty repairs.
- Additional Perks: Trip interruption reimbursement, Transferable to private-party buyer.
Edmunds’ Take: Edmunds points out the powertrain warranty parity with Hyundai, ensuring extensive coverage for major components. While the comprehensive coverage is limited to one year, this is standard for non-luxury CPO programs. Kia’s slightly more extensive 164-point inspection offers a marginal edge in pre-purchase assurance. The transferable warranty adds a valuable selling point if you decide to sell your CPO Kia privately.
3) Honda and Mazda: A Balanced Approach with No Deductibles
Honda and Mazda’s CPO programs are tied due to their near-identical benefits, offering a strong balance of warranty and customer-friendly perks.
Key Program Highlights:
- Warranty: 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty from original purchase date, plus 1-year/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage beyond the original 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.
- Eligibility: Vehicles under 6 years old with less than 80,000 miles, passing a 182-point (Honda) or 160-point (Mazda) inspection.
- Roadside Assistance: Matches warranty length.
- Deductible: No deductible for warranty repairs.
- Additional Perks: Transferable to private-party buyer.
Edmunds’ Take: Edmunds emphasizes the superior powertrain warranty duration compared to many luxury brands. The additional year of bumper-to-bumper coverage surpasses some competitors in the same price bracket. Honda and Mazda distinguish themselves further with roadside assistance that mirrors the warranty duration and the absence of deductibles, positioning them favorably against brands like Toyota, which offers shorter roadside assistance in its comparable program.
4) GM Brands (Buick, Chevrolet, GMC): Value-Added Services and Exchange Policy
General Motors’ CPO program, encompassing Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC, provides a solid warranty with unique service perks and a customer-friendly exchange policy.
Key Program Highlights:
- Warranty: 6-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty from original purchase date, plus 1-year/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage from CPO purchase date.
- Eligibility: Vehicles under 5 years old with less than 75,000 miles, passing a 172-point inspection.
- Roadside Assistance: Matches warranty length.
- Deductible: No deductible for warranty repairs.
- Additional Perks: Transferable to private-party buyer, 2-year/24,000-mile complimentary service plan (two visits), 3-month SiriusXM and OnStar subscriptions, alternate transportation during repairs.
Edmunds’ Take: While acknowledging that GM’s powertrain warranty is slightly shorter than some competitors (6 years vs. 7 years), Edmunds highlights the exceptional perk of a three-day/150-mile exchange policy. This allows buyers to exchange their CPO vehicle for another of equal value if unsatisfied, adding a layer of purchase confidence not commonly found in CPO programs. The complimentary service plan further enhances the value proposition.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best CPO Program for Your Needs
Determining the “best” CPO program ultimately depends on individual priorities. Hyundai and Kia stand out for their industry-leading powertrain warranties and extensive roadside assistance. If long-term engine and transmission security are paramount, these brands are compelling choices. Honda and Mazda offer a balanced approach with solid warranty coverage, no deductibles, and transferability, appealing to buyers seeking comprehensive protection and cost predictability. GM brands provide unique value through complimentary service and an exchange policy, catering to those who appreciate added convenience and purchase flexibility.
When considering which car brand offers the best CPO program, carefully weigh the warranty terms, additional benefits, and your personal driving needs and ownership preferences. Comparing these key aspects will guide you toward the CPO program that best aligns with your requirements, ensuring a more confident and secure used car buying experience.
