What to Look for When Buying a Certified Pre-Owned Ford
Welcome to Briarwood Ford
Shopping for a certified pre-owned Ford vehicle is one of the smartest decisions you can make when looking for a quality used car, truck, or SUV. Ford's Certified Pre-Owned program offers the reliability and peace of mind of a new vehicle at a more accessible price point, backed by comprehensive warranty coverage and rigorous inspection standards.
At Briarwood Ford, our team helps buyers throughout Saline, Michigan, and the surrounding areas find the perfect CPO vehicle to fit their needs and budget. We maintain an extensive selection of certified pre-owned Ford vehicles, each one thoroughly inspected and backed by Ford's factory warranty program.
Located at 7070 E Michigan Ave Saline, MI 48176, we provide transparent pricing, flexible financing options, and expert guidance throughout your buying journey. Call us at (734) 429-5478 to learn more about our current CPO inventory.
Understanding the Ford CPO Program
Before you start shopping, it's important to understand what makes Ford's Certified Pre-Owned program stand out from typical used vehicle purchases. Every Ford CPO vehicle must meet strict eligibility requirements and undergo comprehensive reconditioning before earning the certified designation.
Vehicle Eligibility Requirements
Not every used Ford qualifies for the CPO program. Ford maintains strict standards to ensure only the highest-quality vehicles earn certification. Understanding these requirements helps you appreciate the value of choosing a certified vehicle over a standard used car.
| Requirement | CPO Standard |
|---|---|
| Model Year | Must be current model year or up to 6 years old |
| Mileage Limit | Less than 80,000 miles on the odometer |
| Title History | Clean title with no salvage, flood, or frame damage |
| Previous Use | No former rental, taxi, or police vehicle history |
| Inspection Status | Must pass 172-point inspection by certified technicians |
The 172-Point Inspection Process
The cornerstone of Ford's CPO program is the comprehensive 172-point inspection performed by factory-trained technicians. This inspection covers every major system and component, ensuring the vehicle meets Ford's strict quality standards before it can be certified.
The inspection examines the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, interior components, and exterior condition. Any component that doesn't meet Ford's standards must be repaired or replaced with genuine Ford parts before the vehicle can receive certification. This thorough process gives you confidence that your CPO vehicle will perform reliably for years to come.
Key Areas to Examine When Shopping
While Ford's CPO program provides substantial peace of mind, you should still carefully evaluate any vehicle before making your purchase. Here are the critical areas to examine during your shopping process.
Vehicle History Report
Always request and review a complete vehicle history report. Ford CPO vehicles come with a CARFAX Vehicle History Report that details previous ownership, service records, accident history, and title information. Look for consistent maintenance records and avoid vehicles with gaps in service history or multiple owners in a short period.
Warranty Coverage Details
Review the specific warranty coverage included with the CPO vehicle. Ford offers a 12-month/12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty and a 7-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty from the original in-service date. Make sure you understand what's covered, what's excluded, and how to file a claim if needed.
Physical Condition Assessment
Inspect the vehicle thoroughly in person. Check the exterior for paint inconsistencies, dents, or rust. Examine the interior for excessive wear, stains, or odors. Test all electronic features, including the infotainment system, climate control, and power accessories. A CPO vehicle should look and feel well-maintained.
Ford CPO Warranty Coverage
12 Months / 12,000 Miles
Comprehensive Limited Warranty
7 Years / 100,000 Miles
Powertrain Limited Warranty
24/7 Coverage
Roadside Assistance Included
Essential Questions to Ask Your Dealer
A knowledgeable dealer will welcome your questions and provide detailed answers. Here are the essential questions to ask when evaluating a CPO Ford vehicle at any dealership.
Service and Maintenance History
Ask for complete service records showing oil changes, tire rotations, brake service, and any major repairs. Consistent maintenance indicates a well-cared-for vehicle. At Briarwood Ford, we provide full service documentation for every CPO vehicle in our inventory.
Look for services performed at recommended intervals and ask about any recalls that have been addressed. A complete maintenance history helps predict future reliability and potential repair needs.
Remaining Factory Warranty
Determine how much time and mileage remains on the original factory warranty, as CPO coverage begins after the factory warranty expires. Understanding the total coverage period helps you budget for future maintenance costs.
Ford's CPO warranties are transferable, which adds value if you decide to sell the vehicle later. Ask about extended warranty options if you want additional coverage beyond the standard CPO warranty.
Inspection Report Details
Request a copy of the 172-point inspection report. This document shows exactly what was checked and any components that were replaced during the certification process. It provides transparency about the vehicle's condition and recent work performed.
Pay attention to items that were replaced versus items that simply passed inspection. Recently replaced brakes, tires, or batteries add value to your purchase.
Pricing and Incentives
Ask about current pricing, available incentives, and how the price compares to similar vehicles in the market. CPO vehicles typically cost more than non-certified used vehicles, but the added warranty coverage and peace of mind often justify the premium.
Inquire about special financing rates available for CPO vehicles. Ford often offers competitive APR rates on certified pre-owned purchases that can make your monthly payment more affordable.
| Question Category | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Previous Ownership | Number of owners, lease vs. purchase, geographic location |
| Accident History | Any reported accidents, extent of damage, quality of repairs |
| Service Records | Regular maintenance, dealer vs. independent service, recall completion |
| Current Condition | Tire tread depth, brake pad thickness, battery health, fluid levels |
| Included Features | Original equipment, aftermarket additions, available accessories |
The Test Drive: What to Evaluate
A thorough test drive is essential when buying any vehicle, including certified pre-owned models. While the CPO inspection covers mechanical components, your test drive helps ensure the vehicle fits your driving style and daily needs.
Engine Performance
Smooth acceleration, no hesitation
Transmission
Clean shifts, no slipping
Braking
Responsive, no pulling or noise
Steering
Precise, no vibration
Suspension
Comfortable, no clunks
Test Drive Checklist
Cold Start Performance
If possible, test the vehicle when the engine is cold. Listen for unusual noises during startup and watch for warning lights on the dashboard. A healthy engine should start quickly and idle smoothly.
Highway Driving
Take the vehicle on the highway to test acceleration, passing power, and high-speed stability. Listen for wind noise or vibrations that might indicate alignment issues or worn components.
City Driving
Test stop-and-go driving to evaluate transmission behavior, brake feel, and low-speed maneuverability. This simulates daily commuting conditions most drivers experience.
Technology Features
Connect your phone to test Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto. Test the navigation system, climate controls, and any driver assistance features. Make sure everything works as expected.
Comfort and Visibility
Evaluate seat comfort, driving position adjustability, and visibility from all angles. Consider how the vehicle will feel during long drives and whether it meets your daily comfort requirements.
Certified Pre-Owned Ford Vehicles at Briarwood Ford
At Briarwood Ford in Saline, Michigan, we maintain an exceptional selection of certified pre-owned Ford vehicles, including popular models like the F-150, Explorer, Escape, Edge, and Bronco Sport. Each vehicle in our CPO inventory has passed Ford's rigorous 172-point inspection and comes with comprehensive warranty coverage for your peace of mind.
Our experienced sales team takes the time to understand your needs and help you find the perfect vehicle within your budget. We provide complete transparency about each vehicle's history, condition, and certification status, so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Flexible Financing Options
Briarwood Ford works with multiple lenders to offer competitive financing rates on certified pre-owned purchases. Whether you have excellent credit or are working to rebuild your credit history, our finance team will help you find a payment plan that fits your budget. Ford often provides special APR rates on CPO vehicles, making it easier to drive home in a quality certified vehicle.
Use our online finance application to get pre-approved before you visit, or meet with our finance team in person to discuss your options. We'll explain all available programs and help you choose the best financing solution for your situation.
Visit Our Saline Dealership
Experience our CPO inventory firsthand at our convenient location at 7070 E Michigan Ave Saline, MI 48176. Our knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions, provide vehicle history reports, and arrange test drives on any certified pre-owned Ford in our inventory.
Find Your Perfect CPO Ford at Briarwood Ford
Buying a certified pre-owned Ford vehicle offers the ideal combination of value, reliability, and peace of mind. With Ford's comprehensive inspection process, generous warranty coverage, and included roadside assistance, you can drive with confidence knowing your vehicle meets the highest quality standards.
Ready to find your next vehicle? Browse our current certified pre-owned inventory online or visit us at 7070 E Michigan Ave Saline, MI 48176. Call (734) 429-5478 to schedule a test drive or speak with our CPO specialists about available vehicles that match your needs.
Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.