Certified vs Non-Certified Pre-owned Vehicles
When comparing cars certified by CarSmart.net versus those that are not certified, several key differences generally come into play. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of each option:
Certified Cars by CarSmart.net:
- Thorough Inspection:
- Certified Cars: Our vehicles undergo a rigorous 151 multi-point inspection process to ensure optimal safety. They're also completely detailed inside using steam extractors, cleaning the undercarriage, degreasing the engine compartment, and put through a 5-step paint correction to leave you with a meticulous, attractive, and new-like model you're proud to call your own.
- 151 Multi-Point Inspection: There is a checklist of 151 points of inspection in place that is followed to the letter. This ensures your vehicle is in optimum electrical and mechanical condition. Using the latest technologies, tools, and diagnostic equipment, CarSmart.net technicians carry out these checks with the utmost rigor. The inspection always includes paintwork, interior, complete engine preparation, road test, and a final examination before a CarSmart.net technician personally signs off the vehicle. All vehicles have to pass all 151 checks to become a CarSmart.net Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle.
- Non-Certified Cars: These vehicles may not have undergone a formal inspection, so their condition can be more variable. The buyer must rely on their own assessment or a third-party inspection.
- Vehicle History Reports:
- Certified Cars: CarSmart provides solid history reports, ensuring the car hasn’t been in major accidents or suffered significant damage.
- Non-Certified Cars: While a vehicle history report can be obtained, there is no guarantee that it will be as thoroughly vetted as those required by certification programs.
- Reconditioning:
- Certified Cars: These vehicles typically receive any necessary repairs or reconditioning to bring them up to certification standards before being sold.
- CarSmart.net Technicians: It takes a certain type of person to deliver the levels of professionalism, skill, and attention to detail that we expect. CarSmart.net will undertake any reconditioning work trained technicians using specific tools, diagnostic equipment, and genuine OEM parts.
- Road Test: Vehicles undertake a road test during which CarSmart.net technicians assess the unique performance characteristics of each vehicle. For instance, suspension, vibration, braking systems, engine performance, transmission, and other specific areas will be monitored to ensure the vehicle's optimum performance.
- Non-Certified Cars: Repairs and maintenance might be less standardized, with the vehicle being sold in its current condition without any specific reconditioning.
- Seller Reputation:
- CarSmart Certified Cars: Certification is often associated with reputable dealerships or programs, which can add an extra layer of trustworthiness and reliability.
- Non-Certified Cars: The reputation of the seller can vary widely, and buyers need to do more due diligence to ensure they’re purchasing from a trustworthy source.