Why Certified isn’t just a “buzz” word at Ford?

Posted by AcademyFordAdvantage on May 2, 2012 · 3 Comments 

This is our first post in a series of 5 to provide you with a closer look at the Ford Certified PreOwned program here at Academy Ford.  At Ford, certified isn’t just a “buzz” word, when we say certified we mean it.  In order for a vehicle to be Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) through Ford it must go through a 172-point inspection by factory trained technicians.  “What is a factory trained technician?” you ask…They are one of our trained professionals that have earned an associate’s degree through a 24 month program including: lectures, shop work, and internships.

5 Key Points to CPO

1.  Vehicle History Report

To even be considered for certification, each Ford must be less than 6 model years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles on the odometer.  After a vehicle has been determined as eligible in terms of age and mileage, an independent third-party vehicle history report is run to identify any vehicle that does not meet our strict standards. The report is run as a part of our 172-point inspection process, and it includes checks for:

• Flood vehicles
• Fire damage
• Frame damage
• Salvage vehicles
• Branded title
• Odometer issues
• Accident history
• Vehicle title history

2.  Inspection

The 172-point inspection includes:

• Vehicle History
• Road Test
• Exterior
• Interior
• Diagnostics
• Underhood
• Hybrid (if applicable)
• Underbody
• Convenience

The list goes on forever.  To see everything go here.

Any item(s) that does not pass the 172-point inspection are replaced or repaired to “like new” standards.

3.  Comprehensive Warranty

12 months/12,000 miles*

The warranty covers more than 500 components, including many high-tech parts. Areas of coverage include:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Rear-wheel drive
• Front-wheel drive
• Steering
• Brakes
• Front and rear suspension
• Electrical
• Air conditioning and heating
• High-tech
• Emissions
• Ford audio
• Safety

4.  Powertrain Warranty

7 years/100,000 miles*

Areas of coverage include the engine, transmission and more.

Our manufacturer-backed limited warranty is fully transferable to future owners at no cost, a resale benefit that can be transferred from owner to owner.

5.  24/7 roadside assistance

Included for the duration of the powertrain limited warranty coverage.

Complimentary roadside assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Customers may dial (800) 241-3673. Available services include:

• Towing assistance of up to $100 for warranty and non-warranty problems, including accidents (excludes impound and repossession)
• Travel expense reimbursement of up to $500, for up to 3 days lodging, meals and rental vehicle for travel expenses accrued when the breakdown occurs more than 100 miles from home
• Destination expense assistance of up to $75 for emergency transportation to the immediate destination
• Rental car reimbursement of up to $30 per day for up to 5 days
• Fuel delivery if the vehicle runs out of fuel — up to 2 gallons at no charge
• Flat-tire changes on site
• Jump starts for dead batteries
• Lockout assistance of up to $50 to unlock vehicle doors
• Service throughout the 50 United States and Canada

It doesn’t take long for non-covered repairs and other expenses to eat away whatever money you saved when you just buy any used car. When it comes to long-term total cost of ownership, Ford CPO vehicles might well end up costing you less. Maybe a lot less. And it’s hard to put a price on the peace of mind that comes with driving a vehicle inspected and backed by Ford.

 Academy Ford is one of the top CPO dealers in the entire region.  Please give Mark or Malcolm a call if you have any questions.  (301)419-2700.

Information provided by Ford.com

*Call us to learn more about the limited warranty coverage details

Filed under Automobile, car ownership, Car Research, Certified PreOwned, CPO, Customer Service, Dealership