Vehicle Reconditioning

Vehicle reconditioning (often just 'recon') refers to the process of getting a used vehicle (such as a trade-in or auction purchase) ready for resale on the lot. After the dealership acquires a used car, it goes through a series of inspections and repairs: mechanical inspection to fix any issues (brakes, tires, fluids, etc.), safety certification (required by law in provinces like Ontario for retail sale, e.g., obtaining a Safety Standards Certificate) [oai_citation:16‡omvic.ca](https://www.omvic.ca/buying/shopping-tips/curbsiders/#:~:text=often%20includes%3A), emission tests if applicable, and addressing any recalls. Aesthetic reconditioning includes cleaning, detailing, and possibly paint touch-ups or minor dent removal to make the car as presentable as possible. In Canada, recon might also involve ensuring the vehicle meets provincial standards (like DRL - Daytime Running Lights are functioning, which is required by law here, or adding block heaters to used vehicles sold in cold regions if they don't have one). Dealerships monitor reconditioning cost and time closely: spending too much can erode profit margins, and taking too long means a vehicle isn’t on sale (time is money, as cars depreciate and interest accrues on floorplan). Many dealers have a target to complete recon within a few days of acquisition. Effective reconditioning increases the retail value of a used car and helps it sell faster, because a well-reconditioned car looks better and has fewer potential concerns for buyers. It's an essential process to maintain the quality and reputation of the dealership's used inventory.