Acura Certified Pre-Owned Deep Dive: Precision Certified vs. Precision Used

Before we differentiate between Acura's two distinct CPO programs, let's first explore the overarching appeal of choosing a certified pre-owned vehicle in general. Buying a used car can sometimes feel like a gamble, but CPO programs are designed to take that uncertainty out of the equation. They offer a 'best of both worlds' scenario: the cost savings of a used car with many of the reassurances typically associated with buying new.

When you opt for an Acura CPO vehicle, you're not just buying a pre-owned car; you're investing in peace of mind. These vehicles undergo rigorous inspections, often come with extended warranties, and include additional benefits like roadside assistance. This commitment to quality ensures that every Acura CPO vehicle meets the brand's high standards for performance, safety, and luxury. It's about getting an Acura that feels, drives, and performs like an Acura should, backed by the manufacturer's confidence.

For those seeking the utmost confidence and the closest experience to a new Acura without the new car price, the Acura Precision Certified program is the ultimate choice. This is Acura’s flagship CPO offering, representing the very best of their pre-owned inventory. To qualify for Precision Certified status, an Acura vehicle must meet strict criteria:

• It must be a newer model year, typically no more than five years old.
• It must have relatively low mileage, usually under 60,000 miles.

Once it meets these initial requirements, the vehicle then undergoes a meticulous 182-point inspection by Acura-trained technicians. This exhaustive check covers everything from the engine and transmission to the interior features, electronics, and even the smallest aesthetic details. Any components that don't meet Acura's stringent standards are reconditioned or replaced with genuine Acura parts.

The benefits of a Precision Certified Acura are substantial: you get a non-powertrain warranty extending for 24 months or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first, from original in-service date), a powertrain warranty for 7 years or 100,000 miles (from original in-service date), roadside assistance, a complimentary first oil change, and a 3-month trial of SiriusXM. The warranty is also fully transferable, adding to its resale value. This comprehensive package truly embodies Acura's commitment to precision and excellence, making it an outstanding choice for premium pre-owned luxury.

Recognizing that not every driver needs the comprehensive, extensive coverage of Precision Certified but still desires a guaranteed level of quality, Acura introduced the Precision Used program. This program expands the reach of certified pre-owned vehicles, offering a smart value proposition without compromising on essential quality. Precision Used vehicles are typically:

• Newer than 10 model years old.
• Have between 50,001 and 150,000 miles on the odometer.

While the criteria are broader than Precision Certified, the commitment to quality remains. Each Precision Used Acura undergoes a thorough 112-point inspection. This inspection focuses on key mechanical components, safety features, and overall operational integrity, ensuring the vehicle is safe, reliable, and performs as expected. While not as exhaustive as the 182-point check, it's significantly more rigorous than what you'd find with a standard used car purchase.

Buyers of Precision Used vehicles benefit from a 6-month or 7,500-mile (whichever comes first, from date of purchase) limited powertrain warranty, covering essential engine and transmission components. This is paired with 12 months or 12,000 miles of roadside assistance. Importantly, there's no deductible for covered repairs, making maintenance straightforward and budget-friendly. Precision Used offers an excellent entry point into Acura ownership with manufacturer-backed assurance, providing a dependable and affordable path to driving a luxury vehicle.

To help you clearly distinguish between these two excellent Acura CPO programs, let's put them head-to-head:

• Vehicle Age & Mileage: Precision Certified vehicles are typically newer (up to 5 model years old) and have lower mileage (under 60,000 miles). Precision Used vehicles offer more flexibility, being up to 10 model years old and with mileage ranging from 50,001 to 150,000 miles.
• Inspection Points: Precision Certified vehicles undergo an extensive 182-point inspection. Precision Used vehicles receive a thorough 112-point inspection, focusing on critical components.
• Warranty Coverage: This is a major differentiator. Precision Certified offers a comprehensive non-powertrain warranty (24 months/100,000 total miles) and a powertrain warranty (7 years/100,000 total miles), both from the original in-service date. Precision Used provides a 6-month/7,500-mile limited powertrain warranty from the date of purchase.
• Additional Benefits: Precision Certified includes premium perks like concierge service, a complimentary first oil change, and a transferable warranty. Both programs offer roadside assistance, but Precision Certified’s coverage is longer and more extensive (2 years/100,000 total miles vs. 12 months/12,000 miles for Precision Used). Precision Used also boasts no deductible for covered repairs.

In essence, Precision Certified is for those who prioritize the newest possible model, lowest mileage, and most extensive warranty coverage, akin to a new car experience. Precision Used caters to buyers looking for a great value, excellent reliability, and a solid warranty on a slightly older or higher-mileage vehicle, making luxury more accessible.

Choosing between Acura Precision Certified and Precision Used ultimately boils down to your personal priorities, budget, and desired level of coverage. Consider these factors when making your decision:

• Budget: Precision Used vehicles will generally be more affordable due to their age and mileage, making them an excellent choice if you're working with a tighter budget but still want Acura quality and a manufacturer-backed warranty. Precision Certified vehicles, while a greater investment than Precision Used, still offer significant savings over new models while providing top-tier assurance.
• Warranty Desired: If you crave extensive, bumper-to-bumper style coverage for an extended period, Precision Certified is your best bet. If a solid powertrain warranty and essential roadside assistance are sufficient for your peace of mind, Precision Used provides excellent value.
• Vehicle Age and Features: Do you want the latest technology and lowest mileage? Precision Certified models will typically offer this. If you're comfortable with a vehicle that's a few years older or has more miles but is still meticulously inspected and warranted, Precision Used opens up a broader range of options.
• Driving Habits: If you drive many miles annually, the longer-term coverage of Precision Certified might be more appealing. For average drivers or those using the car as a second vehicle, Precision Used offers plenty of protection.

Both programs represent Acura's dedication to providing high-quality pre-owned vehicles. The key is understanding what each offers and aligning it with your specific requirements for a luxury pre-owned car.