FAQs: Why Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Toyota

Unsurprisingly, many people buy pre-owned cars, trucks, or SUVs from Toyota because of their durability and long-term value. You'll probably encounter certified pre-owned vehicles when you look up your options. If this is your first time shopping for a pre-owned vehicle, you might wonder what the difference is between a certified pre-owned and a regular pre-owned model.

Mike Shaw Toyota customers often ask this question. At our dealership, we understand that shoppers looking for a pre-owned Toyota expect security and reliability in their purchase. You need a better understanding of certified pre-owned vehicles and their benefits. This FAQ explains everything about Toyota certified pre-owned vehicles.

Common Certified Pre-Owned Questions People Ask

What is certified pre-owned?

A certified pre-owned car is usually a lease return or a trade-in of a late-model, low-mileage pre-owned car in excellent condition. This vehicle will undergo a multi-point inspection to ensure all systems and key components function properly. Factory-trained technicians will also check for areas needing repairs and parts needing replacement. Then, the vehicle will receive certification to join the certified pre-owned program.

The certified pre-owned program guarantees a pre-owned vehicle's quality and a warranty backed by the manufacturer, but specifics vary by model. Investing in a certified pre-owned car makes you less likely to drive away with a lemon.

What is the Toyota certified pre-owned program?

Toyota's certified pre-owned program has two categories: Gold Certified and Silver Certified. Gold Certified vehicles must be under six years old and have less than 85,000 miles. Meanwhile, Silver Certified vehicles have 60,000 to 125,000 miles on the odometer and are up to 10 years old. Gold and Silver Certified pre-owned vehicles must pass multi-point inspections and have a clean vehicle history report. They all come with a limited warranty.

What benefits do Toyota certified pre-owned vehicles offer?

A Certified Pre-Owned Toyota vehicle's benefits go beyond quality. They include:

• 1-Year/12,000-mile Limited Comprehensive Warranty (only Gold Certified)
• 7-Year/100,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty
• 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
• Transferrable Extended Warranty Coverage
• CARFAX Vehicle History Report
• 160-Point Quality Assurance Inspection
• Standard New-Car Financing Rates
• Trade-ins Accepted

What's the difference between certified pre-owned and pre-owned?

It's all about quality and assurance. Regular used cars do not always come with warranties or manufacturer-backed inspections, whereas Toyota certified pre-owned cars do. Certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles undergo extensive testing and come with manufacturer warranties, providing peace of mind.

Can I get special financing on a certified pre-owned Toyota?

Yes. In Toyota's certified pre-owned program, qualified buyers can use special financing rates. In other words, if you purchase a certified pre-owned Toyota, you will save more money than if you purchased a regular pre-owned Toyota.

What's included in roadside assistance coverage?

Gold Certified vehicles come with 7-year/100,000-mile roadside assistance coverage, while Silver Certified vehicles are covered for 1 year or 12,000 miles. The plan covers most services, including flat tires, lockout services, jump starts, and fuel deliveries. The latter covers up to three gallons and two times per month. It also includes towing during qualified mechanical breakdowns or collision recovery.

Could I trade in my current car for a certified pre-owned Toyota?

Definitely! You can trade in your current vehicle for credit toward your certified pre-owned Toyota purchase. You can also use our online trade-in form to get an estimate on your vehicle or drop by our dealership for an in-person appraisal.

Is it a good idea to buy a Toyota certified pre-owned vehicle?

It may cost more to purchase a certified pre-owned Toyota than an uncertified model, so setting a budget is crucial before shopping. Getting preapproved for an auto loan with our finance department is quick and easy, so you can see what you can afford. We recommend choosing a certified pre-owned model if it fits your budget. Over time, you can save money by purchasing a certified pre-owned Toyota. In addition, these models typically have a higher resale value, making them worth the investment.

Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Toyota in Corpus Christi, TX

Do you want to buy a certified pre-owned Toyota? Visit Mike Shaw Toyota in Corpus Christi, TX, to explore our extensive inventory of pristine and low-mileage certified pre-owned Toyota vehicles. If you need assistance, feel free to contact our Toyota specialists. Visit us today for a test drive!