CPO: You've heard it mentioned by Billings used car dealerships, but do you know what it actually means?

CPO, which stands for certified pre-owned, is a term tossed around by many Billings car dealerships to signify a vehicle in between new and used. While CPO cars in Billings are technically used, they function far more like vehicles that are brand-new.

Is a CPO vehicle right for you? Read on to find out.

What Is CPO?

Let's dig a little deeper into the world of CPO.

In order to classify as CPO, a vehicle must go through a stringent inspection process, meeting certain criteria for mileage and features. Usually a vehicle that was previously leased, a CPO vehicle is generally in much better condition than most Billings used cars. It also comes with a factory warranty extension and sometimes includes special financing.

There are two types of CPO vehicles: factory-certified and dealer-certified.

Factory CPO

A factory CPO vehicle has been certified by standards set by the original manufacturer. Factory CPO cars are typically fewer than five years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles. Usually, they have been more thoroughly inspected and repaired than dealer CPO cars. They also tend to have more comprehensive, factory-backed warranties.

Nissan's CPO program includes vehicles that are six years from in-service date and fewer than 80,000 miles.

Dealer CPO

A dealer CPO vehicle has been certified through an individual dealership rather than the vehicle's manufacturer. Each dealership's inspection process, repair process, and warranty coverage are a little different, but they are usually close to or as good as factory standards.

Pros and Cons of Buying CPO

So, should you buy a CPO vehicle? Here are the major pros and cons.

Pros of Buying CPO

• Luxury for less: With CPO, you get a vehicle that looks and acts almost brand-new but costs pennies in comparison.
• Ease of purchase: Since the vehicle has already been inspected and repaired, you won't have to do those things yourself (unless you want to).
• Peace of mind: Knowing that the vehicle has already passed inspection and comes with an attached warranty is incredibly reassuring.

Cons of Buying CPO

• Higher cost: Although CPO vehicles cost far less than new, they're pricier than used--anywhere from a few hundred dollars' difference to $3,000 or more.
• False reports: Some Billings used car dealers will try to sell you on a "CPO" vehicle that's not actually certified, or they'll run a "multipoint" inspection that's not near as thorough as it seems.
• No guarantees: While you're sure to have fewer problems with CPO than traditional used cars for sale in Billings, you're likely to still have some--after all, when it comes down to it, CPO is still used.

Questions to Ask Before Buying CPO

Think CPO might be right for you? Before you buy, be sure to ask your dealership the following questions:

• Is the vehicle certified by the manufacturer or the dealership?
• What sort of warranty does the vehicle come with, and how long does it last?
• Are there other perks included in the coverage (such as special financing, roadside assistance, or loaner cars)?
• Does the vehicle have to be serviced by this dealership, or will the warranty be honored at other locations as well?
• Is there a return policy, and if so, how long does it last?

Where to Buy CPO Cars in Billings

Denny Menholt Billings Nissan is the best place to buy CPO vehicles in Billings. We've got an excellent selection of certified cars, certified trucks, and certified SUVs.

Visit our lot to see our entire inventory of Billings CPO cars, trucks, and SUVs, or contact us for more information. We'll answer all the questions listed above, plus any others you can think of!

Sources: Autobytel, Autotrader, Cars.com, Edmunds, and The Car Connection,