From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. A certified pre-owned car or CPO is a type of used car. Most often late-model, they differ from other used cars by having been inspected, refurbished, and certified by a manufacturer or other certifying authority.They also typically include an extended warranty, special financing, and additional benefits.here are variations as to what is termed certified pre-owned, so the distinctions are important. Manufacturer (or factory) CPO vehicles are only sold at authorized dealers specializing in that particular franchise. Factory CPO cars are generally five years old or newer and have less than 80,000 miles.