Buying a used car used to be a stressful experience, but there have been several important developments in the last few years when it comes to previously owned automobiles. A prime example is the Scion Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program, which is designed to not only improve the quality of vehicles sold, but also give buyers the peace of mind that they crave.
Initially created to add extra value to used automobiles, Certified Pre-Owned programs have become the norm across the entire industry as automakers strive to go the extra mile and provide their customers with high quality previously owned cars and trucks at reasonable prices. These special vehicles are available only at participating dealerships – they can’t be found on independent lots or from private sellers.
What exactly makes a CPO vehicle different from any other used Scion? The core of most CPO programs is an in-depth series of inspections designed to remove any doubt in the minds of potential buyers about the condition of the certified vehicle. For Scion, this starts with a CARFAX Vehicle History report that verifies actual mileage and also determines whether the car in question has ever been involved in any serious accidents. If the results of the report don’t meet the standards of the program, then Scion disqualifies the vehicle from CPO contention. Other factors taken into consideration when Scion selects a CPO candidate include mileage and age. Only vehicles that are less than six years old and that show less than 85,000 miles are eligible for inclusion in the program.
For the cars that do pass, the next step is a very thorough, 160-point inspection that covers every major system and component in the vehicle. It starts with the frame, underbody and exterior where it searches for corrosion, cracks, paint defects or glass issues. Panels must fit flush, the exhaust system must be firmly attached to the vehicle and the paint can’t be faded, scratched or otherwise damaged.
The process then moves on to the engine, transmission and suspension including not only a mechanical inspection, but also an extensive road test. Scion personnel make sure that the car in question runs and drives as it should, and that no components are in need of special attention. Even systems such as the brakes, electricals, cooling and steering are given a complete shakedown. Finally, the vehicle’s interior is given a comprehensive cosmetic evaluation and interior features are tested to ensure that they function properly.
All of these inspections are performed by qualified Scion mechanics and technicians who are intimately familiar with the design and engineering behind each Scion model. If any defects or problems are found, they are expertly repaired using factory components with no cost-cutting aftermarket parts involved. In many ways, a CPO vehicle can be considered “almost” new. While it may have been previously driven, mechanically, it is comparable to a vehicle that is fresh off the showroom floor.
While the 160-point inspection is a primary component of Scion’s CPO program, there is a second part to the CPO package that for some buyers is even more appealing. In addition to being eligible for the same type of financing found on brand new cars from the automaker, all CPO vehicles are backed by a comprehensive warranty direct from Scion. A previously owned car with a factory warranty used to be unheard of in the industry. Now, CPO programs have turned this feature into one of the chief attractors to these certified vehicles.
Scion includes a seven-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on any CPO vehicle’s powertrain along with 24/7 roadside assistance for the same period. Both use the car’s sale date when new as their starting point. Buyers can also opt for a service agreement that mirrors this time and mileage window. On top of this, Scion CPO buyers are treated to a three-month/3,000-mile comprehensive warranty, which covers any component failure or other issues with the car that might require repair. This warranty of course extends from the actual date of pre-owned purchase. Major automakers do not warranty vehicles that they know will be making regular returns to the service bays of their dealerships, which adds greater legitimacy to the reliability and quality claims made regarding these Scion CPO cars.
Scion’s Certified Pre-Owned program makes it inexpensive and easy to get behind the wheel of a great automotive deal with great solid peace of mind.
