The Fiat 500 is a distinctive, compact, and stylish car known for its Italian charm, fun driving dynamics, and urban-friendly size. Whether you’re looking for an efficient city car, a cute and quirky ride, or a fun way to stand out on the road, the Fiat 500 is a popular choice. If you’re in the market for a Fiat 500 but want to save some money, purchasing a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Fiat 500 is an excellent option.
A Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 allows you to enjoy the benefits of owning a nearly-new vehicle at a lower price than buying new. Fiat’s CPO program ensures that the vehicle has been thoroughly inspected, reconditioned, and meets stringent standards, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. In this guide, we’ll dive into the benefits of choosing a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500, the steps involved in purchasing one, and how to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
What is a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500?
A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Fiat 500 is a used car that has been inspected, reconditioned, and certified by Fiat’s official CPO program to meet the manufacturer’s high standards. This program is designed to provide buyers with a vehicle that offers the reliability, safety, and quality of a new car at a more affordable price. Unlike standard used cars, CPO vehicles come with specific guarantees, warranties, and benefits that make them a great choice for those looking for a pre-owned vehicle.
Key Benefits of Buying a Fiat 500 Certified Pre-Owned
Choosing a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 offers a range of advantages compared to buying a standard used car or a new vehicle. Here are the top benefits:
1. Thorough Inspection and Reconditioning
One of the main advantages of buying a CPO Fiat 500 is that the car has undergone a rigorous inspection and reconditioning process. Fiat’s certified mechanics thoroughly check over the car and replace or repair any parts that don’t meet their standards. The inspection typically includes the following:
- Engine performance and condition
- Transmission and drivetrain inspection
- Suspension and steering components
- Electrical systems, including lights, air conditioning, and infotainment
- Exterior and interior condition (for any signs of wear or damage)
If any issues are found during the inspection, the dealership will fix or replace the necessary parts before offering the vehicle for sale. This ensures that the Fiat 500 is in excellent working condition when you purchase it.
2. Comprehensive Warranty
Fiat’s Certified Pre-Owned program includes a warranty for additional peace of mind. Typically, the CPO Fiat 500 comes with:
- 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Warranty: This covers the engine, transmission, and other major drivetrain components, giving you reassurance that if something goes wrong with the car’s core mechanical systems, you’re covered.
- Limited Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: This covers most of the car’s other components, including electronics, air conditioning, brakes, and suspension. The coverage varies but typically lasts for a few years after the purchase date.
This extended coverage can save you money on repairs and provide additional security knowing that your car is backed by Fiat.
3. 24/7 Roadside Assistance
When you buy a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500, you gain access to 24/7 roadside assistance for the duration of the warranty. This can be incredibly helpful in the event of an emergency, such as a flat tire, dead battery, or running out of gas. Roadside assistance can help you with:
- Towing services
- Flat tire assistance
- Jump-starts
- Lock-out assistance
Having this service available can be a major stress-reliever, especially for those who often drive in unfamiliar areas or during long trips.
4. Vehicle History Report
Every Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 comes with a vehicle history report. This report provides transparency about the car’s past, including any accidents, title issues, service history, or previous ownership. Fiat only accepts cars that have a clean history, meaning no major accidents or salvage titles. This report helps you make an informed decision by giving you insight into the car’s condition and past.
5. Financing Options
Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 often comes with special financing rates that can be more competitive than traditional financing for used cars. Fiat’s CPO program often offers low-interest rates and flexible terms, making it easier to fit the cost of the car into your budget.
6. Low Mileage
CPO Fiat 500 vehicles are typically newer and have low mileage compared to other used cars. Fiat’s CPO program requires that the vehicle be under 6 years old and have less than 85,000 miles on the odometer. This means that you’re getting a car that’s relatively new and has a significant amount of life left.
7. Peace of Mind
With all the inspections, warranties, and certifications in place, you can drive your Fiat 500 with peace of mind knowing that you’re getting a high-quality, reliable vehicle. The certification process ensures that the car is in great shape and is backed by Fiat, providing security for years to come.
How to Buy a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500
Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow a few key steps to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
1. Research the Fiat 500 Model
Before heading to the dealership, take time to research the Fiat 500 models available. The Fiat 500 comes in several trims, including:
- Fiat 500 Pop: The base model, offering the essential features with a focus on efficiency.
- Fiat 500 Lounge: A higher trim with additional features like a premium sound system and upgraded interior materials.
- Fiat 500 Sport: A sportier version of the Fiat 500 with performance-focused features and a more dynamic driving experience.
- Fiat 500 Abarth: The high-performance model, equipped with a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension.
Determine which trim level, year, and features are important to you and narrow down your options accordingly.
2. Find a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 Dealership
Once you have a model in mind, locate a dealership that specializes in Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 vehicles. Fiat has an extensive network of dealerships that offer CPO cars, and many of them have an online inventory where you can browse available vehicles. You can also contact the dealership to ask about specific availability or ask for additional details on the car’s history and condition.
3. Inspect the Vehicle
While CPO Fiat 500 vehicles are thoroughly inspected and reconditioned, it’s still a good idea to personally inspect the car and take it for a test drive. Look for signs of wear, such as scratches, dents, or stains, and make sure that everything is functioning properly. If you’re unsure about the car’s condition, consider hiring a trusted mechanic to give it a once-over before making a purchase.
4. Review the Vehicle History Report
Make sure to ask for the vehicle history report to review the car’s background. This will give you an understanding of any past accidents, service history, and other important details about the car. Fiat only allows CPO vehicles with clean records, but it’s still a good idea to verify this information yourself.
5. Ask About Warranty and Roadside Assistance
Check the specifics of the warranty and roadside assistance coverage included with the CPO Fiat 500. Make sure you fully understand what is covered and for how long. The Fiat CPO warranty typically includes powertrain coverage for up to 7 years or 100,000 miles, which is a major benefit.
6. Explore Financing Options
Once you’ve decided on the Fiat 500 you want, talk to the dealership about financing options. Many dealerships offer special financing rates for CPO vehicles, so be sure to inquire about the current rates, terms, and eligibility criteria.
7. Negotiate the Price
Even with a Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500, there may still be some room to negotiate the price. If you’ve done your research and know the market value of the vehicle, don’t be afraid to haggle for a better deal. You can also ask for additional incentives, such as a discount on the extended warranty or complimentary services.
Conclusion
A Certified Pre-Owned Fiat 500 offers an excellent way to enjoy the iconic Fiat 500 with added peace of mind and security. With its thorough inspection, extended warranty, and other benefits, buying a CPO Fiat 500 allows you to own a quality vehicle without the high price tag of a brand-new model.
By understanding the advantages of the CPO program, researching your options, and working with a trusted dealership, you can find the perfect Fiat 500 that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fun city car or a stylish ride that stands out from the crowd, the Fiat 500 Certified Pre-Owned program is an excellent choice for those who want a reliable, affordable, and high-quality vehicle.
