---
id: guide-0035
title: "What exactly is certified pre-owned and why does it matter?"
category: guide
subtopic: cpo-explained
page_type: guide
source_url: "https://www.boballenmotormall.com"
tags: ["used", "cpo", "warranty", "inspection", "guide"]
questions:
  - "What does certified pre-owned mean?"
  - "How is CPO different from used?"
  - "What warranty does CPO include?"
  - "Are CPO cars worth the extra cost?"
related: [buying-new-vs-used, keeping-value]
dealer: Bob Allen Motor Mall
---

Certified pre-owned means a used car has passed a factory-approved inspection and comes with the manufacturer's warranty. A dealer (like Bob Allen) buys it back, thoroughly checks it, often refreshes worn items, and resells it with confidence.

## What you get

CPO vehicles have detailed service records, a comprehensive warranty that covers major systems, roadside assistance, and sometimes perks like free maintenance. You skip the uncertainty of private-party used cars and get closer to new-car reliability at a lower price.

## The trade-off

CPO costs more than comparable used-you're paying for that inspection and warranty-but less than new. It's ideal if you want proven reliability and peace of mind without the new-car depreciation hit. Bob Allen's pre-owned inventory includes carefully selected vehicles ready to go. Curious about a specific car? Call (877) 331-4442 and our team can explain what we inspect and what warranty covers.