Advantages of Buying a Certified Used Vehicle
There are many reasons why you should consider buying a certified used vehicle from a franchised dealer such as Optimum. For starters, a franchised dealer offers competitive prices and will fully stand behind all their vehicles — even after you drive it off the lot. This may not be the case when you buy privately. Even though manufacturers have variations in certification, there are some common elements that most of them offer. You'll benefit from things like: a manufacturer's backed warranty, a careful inspection of the vehicle, an exchange privilege and roadside assistance. When you think about it, buying a certified used vehicle just makes sense.
Whether you decide to shop for a used vehicle from a franchised dealer or privately, it helps to be prepared. This site is designed to help you through the various stages associated with buying a used vehicle. We want to give you practical information, so there are no surprises. After all, the more you know, the more likely you'll end up with the vehicle that's right for you — at the right price.
We've organized this information in six easy-to-use sections. For optimal results, we suggest you start from the very first section and work your way through each step. Along the way, you can save valuable tips, checklists and other relevant information to your printable worksheet. It'll make a handy resource when it comes time to purchase your used vehicle.
- 150-Plus Point Inspection
Take comfort in the knowledge that the Optimum Used Vehicle you choose has been thoroughly inspected to give you optimum reliability, quality and satisfaction.
- Manufacturer's Warranty
All Optimum vehicles come with a minimum 3-month or 5,000 kilometre (whichever comes first) Powertrain Warranty. And, you have the option of extending your coverage to longer terms and more comprehensive Optimum Protection Plans.
- 24-Hour Roadside Assistance
Every Optimum Vehicle gives you peace of mind driving with a minimum of 3 months or 5,000 kilometres of 24-hour roadside assistance for as long as the warranty is in force.
- Exchange Privilege
If you decide the Optimum Used Vehicle you've purchased or leased isn't right for you, you can exchange it within 30 days or 2,500 km.
If there's something you think we've missed... please let us know and we'll make sure you get the information you want. The way we see it, buying a used vehicle shouldn't be any different than buying a new one.
The Rigorous 150+ Point Inspection
From the proper operation of the engine and brakes to the condition of the sun shade and map lights, you can be sure that each Optimum Vehicle has been meticulously inspected by licensed mechanics before it's offered for sale. During the inspection process, each vehicle must pass a check of a minimum of 150 different points. This ensures the vehicle is in excellent condition - inside and out. On some vehicles, up to 180 different points are inspected. Plus, regular maintenance is performed and faulty components are repaired or replaced.
A GM trained technician performs the following 150-plus point inspection on every Optimum Used Vehicle:
Preliminary
Interior Trim
Pre-Test Drive
Test Drive
Service Bay
Appearance
Final
1. Check vehicle kilometrage against service records for accuracy
Engine Compartment
2. Hood release, hinges, prop rod or gas struts provide proper operation
3. Check finish (rust, corrosion)
4. Check factory instruction stickers
Engine Condition
5. Verify original equipment and displacement
6. Valve covers and head gaskets in good condition
7. Condition of engine belts, automatic belt tensioner, hoses and wires
8. Condition of hose clamps, retainer clips and wire casings
9. Look for areas of concentrated dirt or grime
Engine Oil Level/Condition
10. Check oil level, verify oil clarity and viscosity
Engine Coolant Level/Condition
11. Check radiator for leaks and damage and ensure fan shroud is securely in place
12. Verify blades of cooling fans are not broken or bent
13. Check coolant level, freeze protection rating
Air Filter Inspection
14. Inspect air filter/filter housing for debris (leaves, bugs)
Battery Load Test
15. Inspect battery for cracks. Clean and inspect battery top, posts and cables
16. Measure battery voltage/conduct load test
Ignition System
17. Inspect system for loose, cracked or burned wires. Check wire for short-circuits and arcing
Power Steering Fluid Level
18. Inspect power steering fluid level
Brake Fluid Level
19. Locate and inspect master cylinder reservoir, check brake fluid level
Automatic Transmission Fluid Level and Condition
20. Check all ranges from "Park" to "1st" for proper engagement
21. Fluid level meets manufacturer's specified level, clarity and viscosity
Fuel System
22. Inspect fuel injection system for proper operation
23. Check fuel system for leaks or loose wires and lines
24. Inspect evaporative emissions system for proper operation
Manual Transmission Fluid Level
25. Measure fluid level, clarity and viscosity (if equipped)
Manual Transmission Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Level
26. Check clutch fluid reservoir for proper level
Washer Fluid Level
27. Inspect/fill washer fluid reservoir (front)/(rear, if equipped)
Starter Performance (Automatic Transmission)
28. Check that starter only operates in "Park" or "Neutral"
Starter Performance (Manual Transmission)
29. Starts only when Clutch pedal is pressed all the way down (GM vehicles)
Engine Running, Noise, Vibration and Hardness
30. Check for fluid leaks or valvetrain noise
31. Vacuum system condition
32. Fuel delivery system
33. Valve cover/cylinder head/exhaust manifold gasket soundness
34. Radiator/heater hoses condition
35. Power steering pump/hose condition
36. No squeaking belts
Instrumentation and Interior Component Inspection
37. SRS system warning light/self test
38. ABS system warning light/self test
Instrument Panel
39. Instrument panel/gauge lights and operation
40. Electronic instrument cluster, Head-Up Display operational (if equipped)
Climate Control
41. HVAC/Front and Rear Electronic Climate Control (if equipped)
42. All climate control directional functions/vents working properly
Audio System
43. Audio controls, speakers, steering wheel controls (if equipped)
44. Power antenna (if equipped)
Windshield Wiper/Washer Operation
45. Wiper/Washer Multifunction Switch
46. Hi/Lo/Delay wiper arm speed
47. Wiper arms cycle properly/Washer fluid spray operational
48. Wiper blades
Rear Windshield Wiper/Washer Operation
49. Wiper arm cycles properly/Washer fluid spray operational
50. Delay wipe feature operational (if equipped)
51. Wiper blade
Electric Rear Window Defroster Operation
52. Defroster switch/heating grid operation
Horn Operation
53. Horn operation/sound quality
Lighter/PowerPoint Outlets
54. Cigarette lighter operational, auxiliary powerpoints operational
Tilt Steering Wheel (if equipped)
55. Steering wheel locks in each tilt position
Inside Rearview Mirror
56. Rearview mirror adjusts, range of movement, Auto dim (if equipped)
57. Map/Reading lights (if equipped)
Window Regulators/Power Window/Motors/Vent Windows
58. All power window switches operational (if equipped)
59. Manual/power (if equipped) windows operate smoothly
60. Window Regulators/Motors work correctly (if equipped)
61. Sliding rear window/vent windows (if equipped)
Outside Mirror Controls
62. Check mirrors for full movement in all directions
63. Check that mirrors have good clarity and no scratches or cracks
64. Heated Mirrors/Personal Memory systems function (if equipped)
Power Sunroof Operation (If Equipped)
65. Sunroof opens, tilts and closes properly
66. Check sunroof track for any obstructions or damage
67. Check sunroof seals for any cracks or damage
Removable Roof Panels (If Equipped)
68. Roof panel latches
69. Check roof panel weather stripping for cracks or damage
Convertible Top Operation (If Equipped)
70. Headliner condition (if equipped)
71. Check roof structure for bent rods or damage
72. Top opens and closes fully
73. Rear window, glass or plastic condition
74. Convertible top seals and clamps
Seat Fabric and Trim Condition
75. Vehicle seats are free from wear, stains or tears
76. Passenger compartment trim panels fit and finish
77. Headliner fit and condition
Seat Adjustment
78. Driver and Passenger seat tracks are operational
79. Adjustable head restraints (if equipped)
80. Folding rear seatback/Valet Lockout feature (if equipped)
81. Driver/passenger seat controls are operational
Safety Belt Condition/Integral Child Seat Operation
82. Driver/front passenger seat belt operation
83. Front passenger's seat belt works correctly
84. Rear seat belts operation
85. Inspect safety belt webbing and buckles at all seating positions
86. Height adjustable shoulder belts work correctly (if equipped)
87. Check that integral child seat is operating properly (if equipped)
88. Inspect all child seat hardware and latches in working order
Sun Visor Operation and Condition
89. Inspect the sun visors in their full range of movement
90. Inspect material and retainer clips
91. Vanity mirror condition/illumination (if equipped)
Interior/Courtesy Light Operation
92. Check that all interior lights/switches are operational
Remote Decklid/Liftgate Release Operation
93. Check operation of decklid/liftgate during remote release
94. Inspect weather seal for damage
95. Decklid pull down feature (if equipped)
Remote Fuel Filler Door Release Operation (If Equipped)
96. Inspect operation of the remote fuel filler door release feature
97. Interior fuel door switch, release mechanism working properly
Ashtray
98. Inspect ashtray for broken, bent or melted components
Glove Box Operation
99. Inspect latch, lock, and hinges for proper operation
Door Trim and Lock Operation
100. Check that all doors open and close smoothly
101. Inspect operation manual or power door locks, rear door security lock
102. Check that doors cannot be opened in the "Locked" position
103. Check hand held remote transmitter operational (if equipped)
104. Check all interior/exterior door handles for damage
105. Inspect fit and finish of each door trim panel, armrest, and assist strap
Carpet and Floor Mat Condition
106. Inspect carpet and floor mats for burns, dirt, and excessive wear
Cargo Area
107. Inspect cargo area trim panels for fit and finish
108. Cargo area, door lock switch operation, powerpoint power (if equipped)
Spare Tire Condition/Jack and Wrench Location
109. Inspect spare tire and wheel condition
110. Inspect that all tools needed for spare tire change are intact
Head Lamp/Fog Lamp Operations
111. Head lamp switch, High/Low beam is functional
112. Head lamps are aimed properly
113. Twilight/head lamp delay feature OK (if equipped)
114. Fog lamps are aimed and functional (if equipped)
Parking/Brake/Back Up/Turn and Side Marker Lamps
115. Front and rear parking lamps
116. Brake and backup lamps
117. Left/Right turn signal lamps
Hazard Warning Lights
118. Hazard warning lights work with vehicle running/not running
Wheel and Tire Condition (Inspect Pre-Test Drive and In Service Bay)
119. Wheel covers/wheel centre hubs OK (if equipped)
120. Tire side walls, valve stems, and wear pattern
121. Tire size/correct air pressure/lug nuts secured
122. Inspect wheel rims for damage
Shock Absorber Test
123. Front shock absorbers/strut assembly
124. Rear shock absorbers/strut assembly
Brake Shift/Transmission Interlock (Automatic Transmission)
125. Gear selector cannot be moved out of Park unless brake is applied
Transmission Operation (Automatic)
126. Transmission gear engagement/shift points are smooth
Transmission Operation (Manual)
127. Clutch pedal/gear shift engagement
128. No transmission noise
Engine Performance
129. Engine driveability/performance
130. Engine NVH (noise, vibration and hardness)
Brake Operation
131. Power assisted braking system is functional
132. Anti-lock brake system warning/self-test light is functional
133. Anti-lock brake system functional (if equipped)
134. Vehicle tracks straight under hard braking conditions
Suspension/Drivetrain/Noise/Vibration/Hardness
135. No abnormal vehicle noise, vibrations or harshness identified
Cornering Ability
136. Vehicle cornering dynamics
137. Vehicle has no abnormal body roll
Cruise Control (If Equipped)
138. Cruise control holds at a set speed/adjustments work properly
Transmission Case Inspection
139. Transmission case/pan structurally sound
Manual Transmission Fluid Level and Condition
140. Fluid level, clarity and condition
Transfer Case (4-Wheel-Drive Models)
141. Fluid level, clarity and condition
142. Transfer case/skid plate structural condition
Brake System Condition
143. Brake rotor/drum surfaces
144. Brake pads/shoes have 40% of usable material remaining
145. Parking brake operation
Engine Mounts/Front Suspension Links and Bushings
146. Inspect all engine mounts, grommets and bushings
147. Front suspension links/sway bar/mounts
Struts and Shock Absorber Condition
148. Shock absorbers/struts free of leaks and damage
Steering System Condition
149. Inspect structural condition of all steering system elements
CV Joint Dust Boot Condition
150. CV dust cover boot void of rips/damage
Drive Axle, Axle Fluid Levels
151. Drive Axle meets manufacturer specifications
152. Inspect differential case for fluid leaks
153. Front/Drive axle fluid level
Fuel Tank System Condition
154. Fuel tank and delivery lines are sound, no fuel odour
Vehicle/Structural Damage
155. Vehicle shows no signs of collision damage
Exhaust System
156. Exhaust system hung/routed properly, meets structural integrity, exhaust tone
Engine Oil and Filter Change, Chassis Lube
157. Lubricate all chassis points, perform oil and filter change
Soak Test
158. Soak test/no leakage found
Window Glass
159. Inspect all glass surfaces for chips and cracks
Hood Condition
160. Inspect hood for proper alignment with fenders, grille and fascia
161. Inspect hood's finish for dents and scratches
Grille, Front Bumper, and Fascia Condition
162. Check that bumper guards and rubstrips are securely fastened
163. Check grille, front bumper or fascia alignment/condition
164. Vehicle is free from road tar and tree sap
Driver Side Fender, Door(s), Quarter Panel Condition
165. Inspect for panel alignment, finish quality, previous body work
166. Weather seals, placement/condition
167. Bodyside mirrors, mouldings and badging properly secured
Deck-lid, Liftgate, Tailgate or Rear Cargo Door Condition
168. Inspect the rear body panel surfaces for dings, dents and scratches
169. Deck-lid, liftgate or rear panel doors
170. Weather seals, placement/condition
171. Pickup Tailgate/Bed/Side Rails (if equipped)
172. Bedliner OK
Rear Bumper/Fascia Condition
173. Inspect all rear trim components for proper fit, no collision damage
174. Check that all bumper guards and rubstrips are securely fastened
Passenger Side Fender, Door(s), Quarter Panel Condition
175. Inspect areas for panel alignment, finish quality and previous body work
176. Weather seals, placement/condition
177. Bodyside mirrors, mouldings and badging properly secured
Radio Antenna
178. Inspect mast antenna, antenna base secured to body panel
179. Engine compartment is clean/degreased
180. Interior compartment has been cleaned/detailed
181. Vehicle exterior has been washed/waxed/detailed
$500 Student Discount
If you're enrolled in full-time studies with valid student ID from a recognized institution (i.e., high school, college, university ) or if you've graduated within the past 6 months, you could receive $500 towards the purchase or lease of eligible GM Optimum used vehicles, as well as a GM Goodwrench service lube, oil and filter coupon.
24-Hour Roadside Assistance
You never know when trouble is around the corner. But with GM Roadside Assistance, you have the security of knowing that help is just a phone call away.
Even high-quality design and engineering can't prevent occasional problems. That's why we created GM Roadside Assistance.
GM Roadside Assistance is an important added benefit of ownership.
Roadside Assistance includes:
Emergency Towing Service
If your vehicle becomes disabled for any reason, including an accident, call Roadside Assistance. Our 24-hour computerized national network will provide complimentary towing to the nearest authorized General Motors dealer, to a maximum of $100. If there is not an authorized General Motors Dealer within 50 km, our Roadside Advisor may provide alternative arrangements. For security reasons, towing service will not be provided for unattended vehicles.
Lockout Service
If you're locked out, Roadside Assistance will help get you back in your vehicle and back on the road. If you can't gain access to or start your vehicle due to lost or broken key, or keys locked in the vehicle, Roadside Assistance will dispatch assistance or arrange to have your vehicle taken to the nearest authorized dealership.
In all these situations maximum coverage is $100. An original receipt is required. To ensure security, the driver must present the vehicle registration and personal ID before lockout service is provided.
Flat Tire Change
Flat tire? If you can supply an inflated spare in good condition, Roadside Assistance will send someone to change it for you.
Jump-Start Service
Dead Battery? Whatever the reason a call to Roadside Assistance ensures that someone is on hand to give you a friendly boost.
Emergency Fuel Service
Miles from anywhere and out of gas? We'll arrive with enough to get you on your way (approximately $5.00). Both service and gas are complimentary. Service to provide diesel fuel may be restricted. For safety reasons, propane and other alternative fuels will not be provided through this service.
Trip Interruption Benefits and Assistance
In the event of a warranty related disablement, while en-route and over 250 kilometres from original point of departure, you may qualify for trip interruption expense assistance. This assistance covers reasonable reimbursement of up to a maximum of $500 (Canadian) for (A) meals (maximum of $50/day), (B) lodging (maximum of $100/night) and (C) alternate ground transportation (maximum of $40/day). This benefit is to assist you with some of the unplanned expense you may incur while waiting for your vehicle to be repaired.
Pre-authorization, original detailed receipts and a copy of the repair order are required. Once authorization has been given your advisor will help you make necessary arrangements and explain how to claim for trip interruption expense assistance.
Who is covered?
Roadside Assistance coverage is for the vehicle operator, regardless of ownership, and is in effect for the duration of the Base Warranty coverage. Roadside Assistance is not part of or included in the coverage provided by the General Motors of Canada Limited Total Warranty. General Motors of Canada Limited reserves the right to make any changes or discontinue the Roadside Assistance program at any time without notification.
The Roadside Assistance Centre reserves the right to limit services or reimbursements to an owner or driver when in the advisor's judgment the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence.
The Roadside Assistance Centre reserves the right to limit services or reimbursements to an owner or driver when in the advisor's judgment the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence.
Trip Routing Service
Upon request, Roadside Assistance will send you detailed, computer-personalized maps, highlighting your choice of either the most direct route or the most scenic route to your destination, anywhere in North America, along with any helpful travel information we may have pertaining to your trip. To request this service, please call us toll-free at 1-800-268-6800.
We'll make every attempt to send your personalized trip routing as quickly as possible, but it's best to allow three weeks before your planned departure date. Trip routing requests will be limited to six per calendar year.
Alternate Service
Your Roadside Assistance service call is on us. However, if we cannot provide timely assistance (for instance, because of extreme weather conditions), your advisor may authorize you to secure local emergency road service, and you will be reimbursed up to $100 when you submit the original receipt to GM Roadside service.
Towing and Road Service Exclusions
Specifically excluded from Roadside Assistance coverage are towing or services for vehicles operated on a non-public roadway/highway, off-road, fines, impound towing caused by a violation of local, municipal, Provincial or Federal law, and mounting, dismounting or changing of snow tires, chains or other traction devices.
GM Roadside Assistance
24-Hour Toll-Free GM Roadside Assistance Hotline.
GM Optimum Warranty
Warranty is an important consideration when you shop for a used vehicle. It's important to understand who is providing the warranty coverage to the vehicle you are considering. All Optimum vehicles come with warranty coverage backed by the manufacturer. A manufacturer's warranty ensures your vehicle will be serviced by qualified technicians who use factory-approved parts. This isn't always the case with third party aftermarket warranties sometimes offered in the used car industry.
All Optimum Used Vehicles feature a minimum of 3 months or 5,000 kilometres (whichever comes first) Used Vehicle Limited Warranty. And that's standard. If your budget permits, you can extend or upgrade to an even more comprehensive Optimum Used Vehicle Protection Plan. You'll also appreciate the convenience of being able to transfer any existing warranties to a new owner, should you ever decide to sell your Optimum Vehicle.
For complete coverage details see your General Motors Optimum Dealer.
With an Optimum Vehicle, you can never make the wrong decision. If you find the Optimum Vehicle you've purchased or leased isn't right for you, or if you're not completely satisfied with your choice, simply exchange it for another vehicle. Included with your Optimum Vehicle is a 30 day or 2,500 kilometre exchange privilege. Compare this offer to other manufacturer offers and you will find our exchange offer to be one of the best on the market.
Vehicle Exchange Privilege
If, for any reason, you're not completely satisfied with your Optimum Used Vehicle you may exchange it within the first 30 days or 2,500 kilometres, whichever comes first, of the date of purchase for any other eligible Optimum Vehicle.
If the purchase price of the replacement vehicle is less than the purchase price of the vehicle being returned, you'll receive credit for the difference. If the purchase price of the replacement vehicle is more, you simply pay the difference.
Eligibility / Exclusions
All Optimum Vehicles, unless indicated by your Optimum Dealer, are eligible for the Exchange Privilege if exchanged with the selling dealer within the first 30 calendar days or 2,500 kilometres, whichever occurs first, of the date of purchase.
- The vehicle must currently be owned or leased by the retail purchaser/lessee of the Optimum Used Vehicle.
- The vehicle must be returned in the condition in which it was delivered to the customer, without damage or excessive wear and tear.
The One Time Exchange Privilege excludes vehicles based on the following criteria:
- Fleet purchase or fleet lease vehicles
- Vehicles used for livery, daily rental, hearse, taxi, limousine, snowplowing or delivery services
- The customer has previously returned a vehicle under the Optimum Used Vehicles One Time 30 Day or 2,500 Kilometre Exchange Privilege within a period of 12 months commencing on the return date of that previously returned vehicle
- Optimum Vehicles that have had after-market accessories installed (e.g., radio or alarm system) unless installation was performed or sublet by the selling Optimum Dealer.
Vehicle Inspection
Any vehicle returned under the Exchange Privilege will be inspected by the Optimum Dealer for damage and excessive wear and tear. If non-warranty repairs equal to or greater than $300 have been performed or are necessary, the vehicle is not eligible to be returned. If less than $300, the damage repair estimate will be deducted from the credit amount applied to the returned vehicle.
Valuation of the Returned Vehicle
The "Agreed Upon Exchange Value" will be used in determining the refund value to be applied to the replacement vehicle.
Exchange and Wait Provision
There may be instances when a customer elects to exchange a vehicle under the Exchange Privilege and wait for a replacement vehicle instead of buying or leasing one from the dealer's available inventory. In these cases, the selling dealer will not provide alternate transportation or allow a customer to keep the original vehicle while the replacement vehicle is secured. |
