Ford Offers Used Car Buyers Peace Of Mind Through New Guarantee

Ford recently announced that it will streamline dealer inventory through a process called "inventory framing." The idea is to improve profitability and reduce the risk of aging stock, by concentrating on the best-selling configurations in specific regions. This will affect several vehicles, including the Bronco and Mustang. This will, hopefully, encourage buyers to spec their ideal car and perhaps even order it online.

The Dearborn-based brand has now turned its attention to the digital used vehicle marketplace, offering buyers a 14-day/1,000-mile money-back guarantee. This applies to vehicles sold under the Ford Blue Advantage platform. Through Autotrader, it allows customers to preview a wide selection of Fords (and other brands), to find their perfect vehicle. What's more, the platform allows for home delivery, at-home test drives, and a video walkaround.

All listed vehicles are inspected by trained technicians and are backed by the brand's warranties, under two certification levels - Gold Certified or Blue Certified. The appealing money-back guarantee applies to both the aforementioned levels and is the best guarantee currently offered by any "full-line" carmaker, boasts Ford.

Demand for online vehicle shopping saw a dramatic upturn during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with people unable to visit dealerships in person. Ford notes the platform meets customer demand for a smooth and fuss-free shopping experience, by providing dealers with the best selection of used vehicles. Based on their data, traffic to the FordBlueAdvantage.com website is up 500% when compared to the old Certified Pre-Owned site. Ford's certified used vehicle sales also increased by 26% last year.