Certified Pre-Owned vs. Used Cars in Reading, PA: Which Should You Buy?
Short answer: A certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle typically costs a little more but adds a manufacturer-backed extended warranty and a stricter certification inspection — best if you want maximum peace of mind. A regular used vehicle usually costs less and opens up far more selection and value picks. At Tom Masano Auto Group, both are backed by our own 138-point inspection and a 5-day money-back return.
What is a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle?
A certified pre-owned vehicle is a used car that meets a manufacturer’s certification requirements: it’s usually newer, lower-mileage, passes a manufacturer-specified inspection, and comes with an extended, manufacturer-backed warranty plus perks that can include roadside assistance. Explore our certified options on the certified pre-owned vehicles page.
What counts as a regular used car?
A regular used car is any pre-owned vehicle that isn’t enrolled in a manufacturer CPO program — from nearly-new off-lease vehicles to older, higher-mileage value cars. You give up the manufacturer’s extended CPO warranty, but you gain more selection and lower prices. At Tom Masano Auto Group, every used vehicle — CPO or not — goes through our 138-point inspection and is backed by a 5-day money-back return.
CPO vs. used: the key differences
| Factor | Certified Pre-Owned | Regular Used |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Usually higher | Usually lower |
| Warranty | Manufacturer-backed extended coverage | Any remaining factory warranty; optional service contracts |
| Age/mileage | Newer, lower-mileage | Full range, including value picks |
| Inspection | Manufacturer certification standards | 138-point inspection at Tom Masano Auto Group |
| Selection | Limited to eligible vehicles | Broadest selection |
| Best for | Maximum peace of mind | Budget and widest choice |
Which is the better value?
- Choose CPO if you plan to keep the car many years, want the longest manufacturer-backed warranty, and prefer a newer, lower-mileage vehicle.
- Choose regular used if you want the lowest price, the widest selection, or a specific older model, and you’re comfortable with the factory warranty that remains.
How to decide in three questions
- How long will you keep it? Longer ownership favors CPO’s extended warranty.
- What’s your budget? Tighter budgets and value hunting favor regular used.
- Warranty vs. selection? Peace of mind leans CPO; maximum choice leans used.
Shop both at Tom Masano Auto Group
You don’t have to decide before you shop. Browse our certified pre-owned vehicles and our full used vehicle inventory side by side, compare them at our indoor AutoTorium, or buy 100% online with home delivery through REV by Tom Masano Auto Group. Questions? Call (877) 866-6272.
Frequently asked questions
Is certified pre-owned worth the extra cost?
It can be, if you value a manufacturer-backed extended warranty and a newer, lower-mileage vehicle and plan to keep it for years. If budget and selection matter most, a regular used car may be the better value.
What’s the difference between CPO and regular used?
CPO vehicles are newer, pass a manufacturer certification inspection, and include a manufacturer-backed extended warranty. Regular used vehicles cost less and offer far more selection.
Are used cars at Tom Masano Auto Group inspected even if they aren’t certified?
Yes. Every used vehicle goes through a 138-point inspection and is backed by a 5-day money-back return.
Can I buy a certified pre-owned or used car online?
Yes. Both can be purchased 100% online through the REV by Tom Masano Auto Group webstore, with home delivery in the Reading and Berks County area.
Where can I compare CPO and used cars near Reading, PA?
At Tom Masano Auto Group, 841 E Wyomissing Blvd, Reading, PA 19611.
Shop certified & used your way.