What Is Ford Blue Advantage Pre-Owned?
Go for the Gold or choose Blue? Here's what differentiates the Ford CPO offerings.
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Buying a used car is a great idea for those looking to save some money, but the purchase can be loaded with uncertainties. That's where certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles come in. CPO cars are selected with age and mileage limits and are meticulously inspected. Many even include warranties to provide some peace of mind to shoppers.
Every automaker has a CPO program, but they differ in terms of vehicle eligibility and how inclusive their warranties are. Let's take a look at the Ford Blue Advantage program.
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Ford's Gold Certified Vehicles Are the Cream of the Crop
Ford has two categories of CPO vehicles, and Gold Certified is at the top. Vehicles classified as Gold Certified are less than six years old and have fewer than 80,000 miles on the odometer. Only Ford vehicles can be Gold Certified.
A Gold Certified vehicle must pass a thorough 172-point inspection, ensuring it is roadworthy, has a straight body, features a sturdy frame, and is up to date on its service maintenance and recall repairs.
In terms of protection, Gold Certified vehicles receive a one-year, 12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty and a seven-year, 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, which ensures owners have some protection from unexpected mishaps and expensive repairs. Gold Certified models also get 24/7 roadside assistance during that seven-year, 100,000-mile period. Finally, Gold Certified vehicles have a 14-day, 1,000-mile money-back guarantee.
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Blue Certified Vehicles Can Save You Money and Worry
The downside is that Gold Certified vehicles are a bit on the pricier side of the program. Ford also offers Blue Certified, which is less selective but more affordable.
Blue Certified vehicles can be up to 10 years old with less than 120,000 miles on the odometer. Even non-Ford vehicles are eligible. Blue Certified vehicles must pass a 139-point inspection that is nearly as comprehensive as the Gold Certified one.
Blue Certified vehicles, however, lack the thorough warranty and protections of the Gold Certified vehicles. Blue Certified cars include a 90-day, 4,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty. They do come with the same 24/7 roadside assistance for seven years or 100,000 miles and include a 14-day, 1,000-mile money-back guarantee.
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Which Ford Blue Advantage Program Is Better?
If you're looking to save money with a used car, the Ford Blue Advantage program can deliver, but Gold Certified includes a longer limited warranty and an even longer powertrain warranty, which is ideal for apprehensive or inexperienced used-car shoppers.
However, if you have a tighter budget, the Blue Certified vehicles still pass a thorough inspection that's nearly as inclusive as Gold Certified vehicles, making them an attractive choice. It's important to note that they can be a bit older, have more miles on them, and lack robust warranty coverage.
