Approved used cars, or certified pre-owned cars (CPOs) as they can sometimes be known, are cars sold with a stamp of assurance from the manufacturer. Often in immaculate condition, approved used cars tend to have low mileage and get sold via the dealership with some of the perks of a new car, such as warranty.

✔ Every manufacturer offering an approved used service will prepare used cars to a minimum standard, although this will differ slightly across brands. This means used cars in poor condition or with high mileages are unlikely to qualify as approved used. As a rule of thumb, most approved used cars are less than five years old.