If you are shopping for a used car, there are a lot of models to consider. On some paperwork, you might see the term "mechanically reconditioned", and understanding it is key to knowing what kind of vehicle is for sale.

Used Cars

When a car is listed as used, this means that very little was done to the car before being put up for sale. Its condition is essentially the same as when the previous owner stopped driving it.

Reconditioned Cars

If a car is listed as reconditioned, this means that major work was done on the car to make it look and feel like new again. This could include replacing things like the engine, body panels, and interior components. It is often an extensive overhaul of the vehicle. Items that are almost always checked are the brakes, steering system, alignment, oil and fluids, coolant system, suspension, and electric components.

Reconditioning usually involves repairing the exterior look of the car, too. This process involves touching up paint chips and scrapes, repairing dents, replacing damaged wheels, and replacing any chipped or cracked windows.

Certified Pre-Owned Cars

A Certified Pre-Owned designation means that the car started its "used" life in excellent condition. A used car has to meet certain age, wear and tear, and mileage requirements before it earns a CPO listing. Once it meets that criteria, it goes through an extensive inspection process to make sure everything is in good working order. If any problems are found, they are repaired, or the car is simply sold as used. The repairs done on a CPO model are usually not as extensive as a reconditioned car since it was in good condition to begin with.

Detailing vs. Reconditioning

If you think reconditioning just sounds like detailing, it is not. Detailing is simply cleaning the car to make it look good; however, reconditioning, restores the car's mechanical and visual state to a like-new condition.

If you have any questions about a vehicle you see in our used inventory and its history, feel free to contact the team at Pischke Motors Nissan.