Certified vs Used Lexus

A standard used Lexus for sale is any pre-owned vehicle that is sold outside of the manufacturer’s rigorous certification program. There are no rules about mileage limits, and there are no warranty guarantees.

The Appeal and Risks of a Standard Used Car  

The main draw of a standard used Lexus is a lower upfront cost. For some used car shoppers in Phoenix, a standard pre-owned Lexus is enough to access the brand’s famed engineering. 

However, with greater savings comes greater ownership responsibility. Standard used cars are often sold "as-is," with the original manufacturer’s warranty expired. The buyer assumes the full risk of unexpected repairs. For many savvy shoppers, this uncertainty is simply too high of a cost to bear, especially in a vast metropolitan area like Phoenix. 

If you purchase a used Lexus at an independent dealership, even a large corporate used car showroom, you have no guarantees that the Lexus has been inspected. There are no guarantees that basic repairs have been done, much less an overall reconditioning. 

In many cases, these used car dealerships in Phoenix don’t even have a service department. At any rate, this buyer beware attitude really doesn’t come with the huge discount that implies.  

L/Certified by Lexus Advantage

When you choose a vehicle that is L/Certified by Lexus, you are selecting a preowned vehicle that has been meticulously vetted and upgraded to meet the manufacturer’s exacting standards. The program is routinely named one of the nation’s best certified preowned programs, and here at Earnhardt Lexus, we ensure every aspect of that promise is delivered.

Uncompromising 161-Point Inspection & Certification  

Certification begins with eligibility: only late-model vehicles (typically under six years old and under 80,000 miles) that have passed a clean history check are considered. Often these are CarFax 1Owner cars.  

Next comes the rigorous certification process performed by our Lexus-trained technicians. Every eligible car undergoes a mandatory, bumper-to-bumper 161-point inspection. This is not a quick once-over; our technicians perform a Total View of the vehicle, inspecting everything from powertrain components and safety devices to the precise operation of the glovebox light and first aid kit.  

Components may be reconditioned or replaced using genuine Lexus parts, ensuring the vehicle is in like-new condition.  

Smart Financing Offers  

Due to the high quality of the vehicles and the overall reduced risk of choosing a certified preowned Lexus, L/Certified vehicles are often eligible for special, low APR financing offers directly through Lexus Financial Services.  

Qualified shoppers will find that rates are similar to the favorable rates for new cars. This makes them significantly better than a conventional used car loan, often translating directly to a lower monthly payment. Find L/Certified financing offers.  

L/Certified Factory-Backed Warranty  

Lexus L/Certified warranty protection is another core differentiator when considering used vs certified preowned luxury cars. It’s certainly the greatest source of peace of mind. 

While standard used vehicles offer little to no coverage, an L/Certified model provides factory-backed protection that exceeds that of many rival brands. This includes:  

• Unlimited Mileage Warranty: The L/Certified Limited Warranty provides coverage for a minimum of two years, with no mileage limit, after the expiration of the original 4-year/50,000-mile Basic Warranty. This provides coverage for up to six years total and is an exceptional value, particularly for drivers with a long commute across the Phoenix metro area.

• Zero Deductible: All covered repairs performed at an authorized Lexus dealership come with a $0 deductible. Learn more about L/Certified Benefits.

Exclusive Luxury Ownership Benefits

The L/Certified experience includes benefits designed specifically for the luxury owner:

• Complimentary Maintenance: To ensure your new purchase remains in optimal condition, Lexus includes the next four scheduled maintenance services for two years or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first. This benefit alone can save you significant money in your first two years of ownership.

• Exclusive Owner Services: Your certified preowned Lexus comes with 24/7 Roadside Assistance, the assurance of a loaner car if a warrantable repair takes more than eight hours, and trip interruption coverage if you are stranded far from home. 

Benefits of Earnhardt Lexus

Why should you choose our Phoenix dealership for certified preowned shopping?  Our staff is committed to enhancing your luxury car shopping experience. 

• Used Lexus Inventory: If you shop for a used Lexus at non-brand dealerships, you’ll find the inventory isn’t as rich as the certified-preowned and used Lexus inventory at our dealership. Earnhardt Lexus has many loyal customers who frequently trade their Lexus for the newest edition. 

• Earnhardt Legacy: While our showroom is relatively new, Earnhardt Lexus is a long established business with big ties to the community.  It all dates back to the family’s first dealership in 1951.

• No Bull Honesty:  From our No Bull prices to No Bull financing offers, you can trust our team for fair deals every day.

Conclusion: Total Value vs. Initial Cost

The choice between an L/Certified vehicle and a standard used Lexus is not about quality versus savings—it’s about understanding the definition of total value.

While a standard used Lexus offers a lower initial price, an L/Certified model from Earnhardt Lexus delivers superior big value by protecting you from unforeseen major repair costs, covering expensive maintenance services, and potentially lowering your financing rate. It is the smarter, most comprehensive way to own a world-class luxury vehicle.  

If you are ready for the ultimate in luxury, value, and assurance, contact Earnhardt Lexus in North Scottsdale today. Schedule a test drive at your convenience.

Browse our L/Certified inventory online or visit our showroom to experience the difference for yourself. At any time, please let our staff know how we can make your luxury car shopping more enjoyable.