Despite being a society where electronic information and agreements are growing in commonality, physical paperwork is still regarded as a formality in most major transactions. The importance of formal documents is clearly at the heart of automobile sales, often viewed as the second-most expensive purchase in a person’s life. Some pieces of paperwork associated with new or used car sales would consist of a title, registration as well as insurance where required.
In addition to standard documents connected to the ownership of a car, truck, or a crossover vehicle, the choice to acquire a mode of transportation through certified pre-owned (CPO) channels will require familiarity with other pieces of paperwork.
The following paperwork and documents included with the buying process of a CPO vehicle provides an enlightening source of information that would rarely be offered through a traditional used car sale.
Inspection Checklist
One of the major selling points attached to the certified pre-owned vehicle marketplace is an inspection performed by a maintenance professional who would know the specific model. From the inspection, a detailed checklist is compiled, consisting of vital mechanical, electronics, and cosmetic elements. The scope of the inspection checklist can vary depending on the manufacturer but will provide a transparent description of how a vehicle is evaluated. Not only should a buyer of a CPO vehicle be required to review the checklist, but the document would often contain a line for the customer’s signature.
Vehicle History Report
Although a vehicle history report is considered a sensible measure for any purchase of a used automobile, the appearance of this document in the sale of certified pre-owned cars is practically commonplace, a resource CPO dealerships are eager to use as a reinforcement. And while these documents could be obtained for an additional cost for other used car sales, dealerships offering CPO cars would provide the report for no charge to the potential buyer.
Presented within a vehicle history report document is a comprehensive disclosure of a vehicle’s past. Previous sales, accidents, odometer tampering, outstanding liens as well as open recalls attached to a car’s VIN code are among details provided in the report.
Warranty Documentation
A form of peace of mind typically reserved for new car customers, warranty protection is something purchasers of certified pre-owned vehicles are granted. Thanks to the age and low mileage of CPO cars, warranties are provided in the form of a remaining new car warranty and/or a specific extended assurance period. With warranty periods differing between auto manufacturers, a purchaser preparing to acquire a CPO vehicle should carefully read warranty documents and gain a complete understanding of what may or may not be covered.
It is also essential to take note of the responsibilities that a CPO car buyer will have in maintaining the validity of the warranty. Performing scheduled basic maintenance within a set interval is a general requirement during the period of a warranty. A warranty document may also advise keeping records and receipts of this service.
Private CPO Sale Documents
With life, we are led down different paths that will attract a purchase of a certified pre-owned vehicle. A selling experience for one individual (a private sale of a certified pre-owned vehicle), provides a buyer with a chance to obtain a quality piece of transportation. While exercising the savvy necessary when considering any used car purchase, buyers of a CPO vehicle through a private sale can also receive the benefits of existing warranty protections. And since most CPO car warranties are transferrable, the auto dealership that sold the vehicle will extend the coverage from the previous customer to a private party buyer.
When a private party sale has been initiated for a CPO car with an active warranty, be sure that the dealer where the vehicle was purchased is contacted. In addition to submitting a form confirming the transfer of a CPO vehicle, a dealership will also require proof of private party sale.
Carefully reading and maintaining all of the documents will result in a positive, well-informed ownership experience for a buyer of a certified pre-owned vehicle.