Used Vehicles: Is "Certified" Important?

[VanForNow]

I am in the market for a fairly recent used truck. When browsing the dealers' ads, some trucks are listed as "certified." What exactly does this term mean?

Is it an advantage to buy a "certified" used vehicle as opposed the majority which are listed as just "used?"

 

[Almost There]

That would depend entirely on what it was certified for and who 'certified' it.

Here in Ontario, it means that the mechanical inspection has been done by an accredited mechanic and passes certain provincial standards of road worthiness. If the vehicle doesn't have the 'mechanical fitness certificate' when one buys it, the purchaser must assume responsibility for having it certified (and any necessary repairs to bring it to standards) before it can be titled and plated.

In other parts of the continent it may mean something entirely different...some states have stringent 'certification' standards, others have no so stringent and some have none!

 

[KASibson]

Personally, I'd rather have a vehicle "certified" by a mechanic I trust, rather than one employed by the dealership selling the vehicle.

 

[squatting dog2]

most dealers in the US have certified pre-owned used cars and trucks. generally means they are low mileage vehicles that were originally purchased new at that dealership and have been maintained by that dealer. For example, I bought a 2006 Chevy Trailblazer that went through a 140 point inspection, had any defects,  (even some small things like emblems that were discolored) repaired before the vehicle ever hits the lot. Plus, it came with a 5 year 100,000 mile power train warranty.

 

[Almost There]

Just a reminder that it's important to find out if the warranty is from the manufacturer, from the dealer or from a third party warranty company.

If you're headed for full-timing and the warranty is from the dealer, it might be of absolutely no value to you in the long run. You'll be several states gone before you need anything and most dealer warranties are only good for servicing problems at THAT dealer.

 

[squatting dog2]

Good advice AT, it's always worth checking out. In my case, although I bought the vehicle in Florida, turns out the warranty was good at any Chevy dealership in the US. I used it once in Vermont, and another time in Arkansas. Both times fully covered.
It should be noted, this vehicle was GM certified, thus the coverage extended to all GM dealers.

 

[ccbreder]

you get what you pay for if a GM, or Ford, or Chrysler or such certified used car. otherwise catch em and hook em.