Manufacturers run Approved Used schemes through their franchise dealer networks. As different dealers offer different things, here's our guide to the pros and cons of buying Approved Used...
The pros
An Approved Used car means the car has been prepared to a set of standards and comes with a number of benefits (e.g: a warranty). So when buying a an Approved Used car, you're getting peace of mind. You know that the car you are buying has been thoroughly checked, has at least a year's warranty and - if things do go wrong - you can bring it back. The better schemes give you a wide range of cars to choose from, as you can access a manufacturer's nationwide used stock online and find the exact model you're looking for near you. That means fewer visits and no wasted trips.
Thoroughly checked and repaired
Covered by at least one year's warranty
Recognised and reputable dealers
Good amount of choice
Search nationwide stock
The cons
Approved Used cars tend to be more expensive than cars from independent dealers - the costs of warranties, inspection and breakdown cover bump up the price. Even after haggling with the salesman, you're still likely to be paying more than elsewhere. Although as a package, the benefits represent good value, you may be duplicating cover you already have - do you need the breakdown cover, for example. The salesman may try to push you into taking their finance. It's rarely cheap and you can usually find a better rate from a bank.
More expensive than independent dealers
Cover may duplicate with existing agreements
Finance packages are rarely the cheapest on the market
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