If you’re shopping for a used vehicle near you, you’ve probably seen the term GM Certified Pre-Owned (CPO). But what does that actually mean? And is it worth it?
At Arnie Bauer Cadillac Buick GMC Chevy, we believe in complete transparency. Here’s everything you need to know about GM Certified vehicles — and why they’re one of the smartest ways to buy a used car.
What Is a GM Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Vehicle?
A GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is a carefully selected used Buick, GMC, Cadillac, or Chevrolet that meets strict General Motors standards.
To qualify as GM Certified, a vehicle must:
- Be within the current model year or the previous five model years
- Have fewer than 75,000 miles
- Pass a detailed 172-point inspection
- Have all safety recalls completed
- Include a clean vehicle history report
Only vehicles that meet these high standards can earn the GM Certified badge.
What Is the 172-Point Inspection?
Every GM Certified vehicle goes through a rigorous 172-point inspection and reconditioning process performed by factory-trained technicians.
This inspection covers:
- Engine performance
- Transmission operation
- Brakes and suspension
- Steering components
- Interior and exterior condition
- Technology and safety features
- Tires and wheels
- Underbody and frame condition
If a vehicle does not meet GM’s standards, it does not qualify as Certified.
What Are the Benefits of Buying a GM Certified Vehicle?
When you purchase a GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, you get significant added protection and perks:
Warranty Coverage
- 12-month/12,000-mile CPO Bumper-to-Bumper Limited Warranty Extension
(Whichever comes first, in addition to any remaining original factory bumper-to-bumper warranty.) - 6-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty
(Whichever comes first, from the original in-service date.)
Additional Benefits
- Two included maintenance visits within 2 years or 24,000 miles
- Roadside Assistance
- Courtesy transportation for warranty repairs
- 3-day / 150-mile Vehicle Exchange Program
- Vehicle History Report
- 1-month OnStar® Safety & Security + Connected Services trial
- 3-month SiriusXM® trial subscription
These benefits provide peace of mind that most standard used vehicles simply don’t include.
Why Buy a GM Certified Vehicle?
Buying GM Certified gives you:
✔ New-car-like confidence
✔ Factory-backed warranty protection
✔ Thorough inspection standards
✔ Lower cost than buying new
✔ Strong resale value
It’s the perfect middle ground between new and used.
If a Vehicle Isn’t Certified, Can Arnie Bauer Certify It?
This is a great question.
In order to be officially advertised as GM Certified Pre-Owned, the vehicle must meet GM’s age and mileage requirements and complete the formal certification process through GM.
However, here’s something important:
At Arnie Bauer, Every Used Vehicle Goes Through a 172-Point Inspection
We would not put a vehicle on our lot if it wasn’t certifiable by our standards.
Many of our used vehicles:
- Meet GM’s quality standards
- Pass a full 172-point inspection
- Are fully reconditioned
But we do not always advertise every qualifying vehicle as “Certified Pre-Owned.”
Why?
Because certification adds cost. And sometimes, customers prefer the lowest possible price rather than paying for the additional warranty coverage.
This allows us to:
- Keep our prices aggressive
- Offer flexibility
- Provide options that fit different budgets
If you want a vehicle fully certified through GM, we can absolutely discuss certifying an eligible vehicle before purchase.
What Is the Difference Between Used and GM Certified?
| Used Vehicle | GM Certified Pre-Owned |
|---|---|
| Inspected by dealership | 172-point GM inspection |
| May or may not include warranty | Includes factory-backed limited warranties |
| Priced lower | Slightly higher due to warranty coverage |
| Varies by dealership | Backed by General Motors |
At Arnie Bauer, even our standard used vehicles are thoroughly inspected and reconditioned — because your safety and satisfaction come first.
Important Recall Information
Before any GM Certified vehicle is listed or sold, GM requires all safety recalls to be completed.
We also encourage customers to independently verify recall status at:
- my.gm.com/recalls
- www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
Transparency builds trust.
Should You Buy a GM Certified Vehicle?
If you want:
- Extra warranty coverage
- Roadside assistance
- Maintenance included
- Added peace of mind
Then yes — GM Certified is a smart investment.
If your priority is the absolute lowest upfront price, one of our fully inspected used vehicles may be the better fit.
Either way, at Arnie Bauer Cadillac Buick GMC Chevy, you’re getting a vehicle that has passed strict standards.
Why Buy from Arnie Bauer?
Family-owned and operated since 1945, we believe:
“Your dollar has more power at Arnie Bauer.”
We don’t price gouge.
We stand behind what we sell.
And we treat customers like family.
Whether you choose GM Certified or one of our thoroughly inspected used vehicles, you can buy with confidence.
Shop GM Certified Vehicles Near You
Looking for a GM Certified Pre-Owned Buick, GMC, Cadillac, or Chevrolet near you?
Browse our inventory online or visit Arnie Bauer Cadillac Buick GMC Chevy today.
Have questions about certification? Ask us. We’re happy to explain your options and help you make the right choice.
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