* Previously owned and registered: This is the core distinction. If the car is new, it hasn't been owned by anyone else and hasn't had its registration completed.
* Driven for a period of time: While a car could be considered used after a single short trip, it usually signifies a vehicle that has been in use for a significant amount of time, ranging from months to years.
* Potentially with some mileage: The amount of mileage on a used car varies greatly, and it's not the sole factor. A low-mileage car that's been sitting for years could be considered used, while a high-mileage car that's been meticulously maintained might be considered a good used car.
Terms you'll often see:
* Pre-owned: A common term often used by dealerships to sound more positive than "used."
* Certified pre-owned (CPO): This typically refers to a used car that meets certain criteria for age, mileage, and condition, usually with a warranty offered by the manufacturer or dealership.
Ultimately, whether a car is "used" is a matter of perspective. If it's not brand new, it's likely to be considered used, regardless of how little it has been driven or how well it's been maintained.
