Buying used can save money, but many Southern West Virginia shoppers still want additional confidence in the vehicle they choose. That is where a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle can make sense.
Ford's Blue Advantage program provides different certification levels based on a vehicle's age, mileage and inspection requirements. For drivers shopping around Danville, Madison, Charleston, Logan and Boone County, understanding the difference between Gold Certified and Blue Certified can make it easier to decide which type of pre-owned vehicle fits your budget and ownership plans.
Stephens Ford offers a changing selection of used Ford cars, trucks and SUVs in Danville, WV, backed by a local Ford sales and service team.
What Does Certified Pre-Owned Ford Mean?
A certified vehicle goes through requirements beyond simply being listed as used. Ford Blue Advantage vehicles must meet age and mileage qualifications, pass a multi-point inspection and include Ford-backed benefits based on the certification level.
The two certification levels most traditional used-vehicle shoppers will encounter are Gold Certified and Blue Certified.
Ford Gold Certified vs. Blue Certified
| Feature | Gold Certified | Blue Certified |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Age | Up to 6 years | Up to 10 years |
| Maximum Mileage | Less than 80,000 miles | Less than 150,000 miles |
| Inspection | 172-point | 139-point |
| Comprehensive Limited Warranty* | 12 months / 12,000 miles | 90 days / 4,000 miles |
| Powertrain Limited Warranty* | 7 years / 100,000 miles | Not included as a separate Blue benefit |
*Whichever comes first. Warranty coverage, eligibility, deductibles and exclusions are subject to Ford Blue Advantage program terms. See the dealer for complete details.
What Is a 172-Point Ford Inspection?
Gold Certified Ford vehicles must pass a 172-point inspection performed by Ford factory-trained technicians. The inspection examines areas such as:
- Vehicle history and recall status
- Engine operation
- Transmission performance
- Brakes and suspension
- Steering
- Tires and wheels
- Electrical equipment
- Safety systems
- Interior and exterior condition
- Road-test performance
If an inspected item does not meet Ford's certification requirements, it must be repaired or replaced before the vehicle can qualify.
Who Should Consider Gold Certified?
Gold Certified is designed specifically for relatively recent Ford vehicles. It can make particular sense if you are shopping for a late-model F-150, Explorer, Escape, Bronco or other Ford and want added warranty protection beyond what normally comes with an ordinary used vehicle.
For a Southern West Virginia truck buyer, that can be appealing when purchasing an F-150 that may see towing, mountain roads or year-round work duty.
Who Should Consider Blue Certified?
Blue Certified expands eligibility to older and higher-mileage vehicles and may include makes other than Ford. These vehicles still undergo a substantial 139-point inspection but carry shorter comprehensive limited warranty coverage than Gold Certified vehicles.
Blue Certified can make sense for shoppers who prioritize purchase price but still value an inspection process and manufacturer-backed certification benefits.
What Other Benefits Come With Ford Blue Advantage?
Depending on certification level and program terms, Ford Blue Advantage benefits can include:
- CARFAX vehicle history report
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Ford Rewards points
- A 14-day/1,000-mile money-back guarantee
- Manufacturer-authorized reconditioning parts
Coverage and eligibility vary, so review the specific benefits listed with the vehicle you are considering.
Certified vs. Regular Used: Which Should You Buy?
A regular used vehicle may provide the lowest purchase price and a wider range of years and mileage. A certified vehicle adds an established inspection process and Ford-backed coverage.
The better choice depends on your budget and how long you plan to keep the vehicle. Someone buying a truck for years of commuting, towing and work around Boone County may place more value on certification than someone simply looking for the lowest-cost second vehicle.
Shop Used Ford Trucks & SUVs in Danville, WV
Stephens Ford helps pre-owned shoppers from Danville, Madison, Charleston, Logan and throughout Southern West Virginia compare Ford trucks and SUVs that fit their budget and driving needs.
Browse used Ford vehicles in Danville, explore the full pre-owned inventory, or visit the Stephens Ford Finance Center to start planning your purchase.
Stephens Ford is located at 104 Stephens Drive in Danville, WV. Call (304) 222-4776 to ask about current Ford Blue Advantage or Certified Pre-Owned availability.