New vs. Certified Pre-Owned Honda Cars: Pros and Cons Explained

When you have decided the time is right to buy a car, you usually have to decide whether you should go with a brand-new model or opt for a certified pre-owned vehicle.

Buying a certified used Honda, for instance, is hardly a leap into the unknown, as you will be investing in a brand that is famous for its reliability and value. The bottom line, new or used, both are viable options.

To help you decide which might be the best option for you, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of buying either a new or certified pre-owned Honda.

Advantages of Buying a New Honda

When you buy the newest model available straight out of the showroom you can be sure that it will have all of the latest features. As you would expect, new Honda models come equipped with the newest technology, the latest safety advancements, and a cutting-edge infotainment system.

Good examples of these cutting-edge features would be Honda Sensing or wireless Apple CarPlay. Buying new ensures your  model will have it all.

A new Honda also comes with a full manufacturer’s warranty. This offers peace of mind in case anything goes wrong. This warranty includes bumper-to-bumper coverage and powertrain protection.

Another valid reason for buying new is that you get the chance to choose exactly what you want when iot comes to personal preferences on trim level, color, interior options, and more.

Potential Disadvantages of Buying a New Honda

One of the most obvious drawbacks is that new cars come with a higher price tag and depreciate quickly at the beginning of their life. It is important to understand that you will be losing value the moment you drive off the lot.

You also need to be prepared for higher insurance premiums. Newer vehicles tend to cost more to insure because they’re worth more.

Advantages of Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Honda

Lower purchase costs are a notable advantage. Certified pre-owned Hondas are more affordable than new ones, making them a great option if you’re on a budget but still want a quality vehicle.

The good news is that Honda’s certified pre-owned program includes extended warranty coverage, which often matches or even exceeds what new car buyers get. This includes a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

It is also reassuring to note that certified vehicles undergo a detailed multi-point inspection by Honda-trained technicians, so you can feel confident about the car’s condition.

You also won’t have to be so concerned about depreciation when buying a used Honda. Certified pre-owned cars will have already gone through the steepest part of depreciation, and then their value tends to hold steadier over time.

Disadvantages of Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Honda

When you go down the used car route, there are bound to be some compromises on things like trim and features. Stock availability depends on what’s been traded in or leased, so you might not find the exact model or features you’re looking for.

Another compromise would be that, although many used models are still very modern, used cars may lack the latest tech or styling found in the newest models.

Last but not least, although the warranty you get with a certified pre-owned vehicle is solid, it may not offer as much bumper-to-bumper coverage as a brand-new car.

Which Option Is Right for You?

If you want to enjoy the latest features and have total control over the specification, specs, a new Honda is your best bet. However, if you’re looking to save money without sacrificing quality, a certified pre-owned Honda is a smart choice that still offers reliability and peace of mind.