After deciding that you either need to replace your current vehicle or get one for another member of your household, you may have concluded that your budget cannot bear the burden of a monthly new car payment. Because of this, you may have decided to try to purchase a used vehicle instead.

While you may be able to find an affordable car through a private seller, you never know what you are going to end up with. Instead, consider the benefits of purchasing a certified used car that is offered through an auto dealership.

1. Car Is Fully Inspected and Any Repairs Done Before It Is Certified and Put up for Sale

One benefit of purchasing a pre-owned car that is certified through a dealership is that the vehicle is fully inspected before it is placed on the lot. With a private seller, there may be major mechanical or computer issues that you are unable to find until after the car is purchased, leaving you with the repair bill.

However, when a used car comes into the dealership, they have auto technicians inspect it thoroughly and make any repairs for issues they find with the body, engine, transmission, computer system, and more. Once this is done, the car is then certified and put up for sale.

2. Dealer Typically Offers a Warranty with an Option for Extension When You Purchase the Car

Another benefit of buying a used car through a dealership that is certified is that the dealer typically offers a warranty. With a private seller, you have no guarantees on the condition of the vehicle, and if an issue comes up, you will have no recourse because there is no warranty.

However, a dealership will not only give you a warranty but also offer you the option to extend it. This warranty and extension are offered even if the factory warranty is no longer active because of the car's age.

When you buy a used car that has been certified by a dealership, you can rest assured that the vehicle has been fully inspected and any required repairs completed before it was put up for sale. If an unforeseen issue does arise, dealers typically offer a warranty with an extension option to cover these circumstances even if the factory warranty has long since expired. For more information or to view their collection, visit an auto dealer near you that offers certified used vehicles.