used
Ford Used Or Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles
Factory Orders Are Now Open - Further Details Below!

Ford Used Or Certified Pre-Owned

Premium quality, comprehensive warranty, and peace of mind

Simple Pressure-Free Ordering

Build your Ford vehicles with ease and confidence.

Nationwide Shipping

We ship Ford vehicles anywhere in the United States, always guaranteed under MRSP.

Speak to a Live Ford Commercial Vehicle Ordering Specialist | 253-813-5068

Should I Buy Used or Certified Pre-Owned Ford?

Should I Buy Used or Certified Pre-Owned Ford? Understanding Your Options at Bowen Scarff Ford

When shopping for a reliable vehicle in the Kent, WA area, understanding the distinctions between used and Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars is crucial. Both options offer considerable savings compared to new models, but each comes with unique benefits and considerations. At Bowen Scarff Ford, located at 1157 Central Ave N, Kent, WA 98032, we help drivers navigate these choices to find the best fit for their budget and peace of mind. For immediate assistance, call us at (253) 852-1480.

Below, you'll find a thorough exploration of the key differences, advantages, and practical considerations when deciding whether to buy a used or certified pre-owned vehicle. This guide draws on industry standards, manufacturer-backed programs, and real-world insights.

Visit us at 1157 Central Ave N, Kent, WA 98032, or call us at (253) 852-1480 to explore our selection of reliable used Ford SUVs.
Table of Contents - CPO vs Used Vehicles
Understanding Certified Pre-Owned vs Used Vehicles

Understanding Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vs Used Vehicles

Certified Pre-Owned Ford Vehicle

Certified Pre-Owned vehicles represent a distinct category within used cars, offering enhanced assurance through rigorous inspections and manufacturer backing. While both used and CPO vehicles come at a lower price point than new cars, the differences in quality, warranty, and condition can be substantial.

CPO vehicles at Bowen Scarff Ford undergo a comprehensive multi-point inspection, often covering over 150 checkpoints across mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic systems. This inspection guarantees that every CPO Ford meets stringent standards, ensuring reliability and performance akin to new vehicles. By contrast, standard used cars may not always be subjected to such detailed scrutiny before resale, leaving more potential for unknown issues.

In addition to inspection, CPO vehicles are reconditioned to address any deficiencies, using genuine Ford parts to maintain manufacturer specifications. This reconditioning can include repairs to brakes, tires, paint touch-ups, and interior refurbishments, setting CPO cars apart in condition from typical used models.

Comprehensive Inspection

Every CPO vehicle passes a rigorous 150+ point inspection covering mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic systems. This thorough evaluation ensures each Ford meets manufacturer standards, providing confidence that standard used vehicles cannot match.

Genuine Ford Reconditioning

CPO vehicles are reconditioned using genuine Ford parts to maintain manufacturer specifications. From brake repairs to interior refurbishments, every aspect is restored to optimal condition—a level of care typically absent in standard used car sales.

Extended Warranty & Roadside Assistance

Bowen Scarff Ford CPO vehicles include warranties extending up to 7 years or 100,000 miles on powertrain components, plus 24/7 Ford Roadside Assistance covering towing, flat tire changes, lockout help, and fuel delivery—benefits unavailable with standard used cars.

Another hallmark of CPO vehicles is the extended warranty. Bowen Scarff Ford offers CPO Ford vehicles with warranties that often extend coverage beyond the original new-car warranty, providing up to 7 years or 100,000 miles of protection on powertrain components. This coverage is paired with 24/7 Ford Roadside Assistance, which includes services like towing, flat tire changes, lockout assistance, and fuel delivery—services typically unavailable with standard used vehicles.

For buyers in the greater Kent, Maple Valley, and Auburn areas, these benefits translate to a higher level of confidence and reduced risk when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. The lower upfront cost of standard used cars may appeal to budget-conscious shoppers, but it's important to weigh this against potential future repair costs and the lack of comprehensive coverage.

Key Takeaways:

  • CPO vehicles pass a detailed 150+ point inspection and reconditioning process.
  • CPO cars include extended warranties and roadside assistance exclusive to Ford's program.
  • Used cars may have lower initial prices but come with higher uncertainty and limited coverage.
Key Differences Between CPO and Used Dealerships

Key Differences Between Certified Pre-Owned and Used Dealerships

When deciding where to buy, understanding how Certified Pre-Owned dealerships differ from standard used car dealerships is vital. Bowen Scarff Ford operates as a Ford-authorized CPO dealership, ensuring every vehicle meets Ford's strict certification criteria and warranty standards.

CPO Dealerships

CPO dealerships like Bowen Scarff Ford source vehicles primarily from Ford lease returns, trade-ins, and off-lease programs, all of which tend to be well-maintained and accompanied by detailed service records. These vehicles go through a mandated certification process before being added to the CPO inventory. This process is standardized and backed by Ford's corporate policies, helping assure quality and consistency across all certified cars.

Moreover, the warranty coverage at CPO dealerships is directly supported by the manufacturer, offering protection nationwide at authorized Ford service centers, including Bowen Scarff Ford.

Used Dealerships

Conversely, used dealerships may sell vehicles from various sources, including private sellers and auctions, with no uniform inspection or certification requirement. While reputable used dealerships do perform inspections, these are often less comprehensive and primarily aimed at cosmetic appeal rather than in-depth mechanical validation.

On the other hand, warranties on used vehicles sold at non-CPO dealerships may be limited, dealer-specific, or entirely absent, potentially leaving buyers exposed to costly repairs after purchase.

Additional perks from CPO dealerships often include:

  • Loaner vehicles during warranty repairs
  • Special financing rates aligned with new vehicle loans
  • Routine maintenance packages included or available at a discount

These factors contribute to a higher purchase price at CPO dealerships but deliver greater value through reduced long-term ownership costs and superior customer support.

The Ford Blue Advantage: Understanding the Tiers

The Ford Blue Advantage: Understanding the Tiers

Ford Blue Advantage Certified Vehicles

In 2025, "Certified" isn't a one-size-fits-all label. Ford now offers three distinct certification levels under the Ford Blue Advantage banner. This allows you to get "Certified" benefits even on higher-mileage vehicles or non-Ford brands.

Gold Certified

(The Gold Standard)

  • Eligibility: Ford models only, up to 6 years old with fewer than 80,000 miles.
  • Inspection: A rigorous 172-point mechanical and cosmetic check.
  • Warranty: 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty plus a 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty.
  • Perks: 22,000 FordPass™ Rewards Points (enough for your first two maintenance visits).

Blue Certified

(Value & Flexibility)

  • Eligibility: Any make and model (up to 10 years old with fewer than 150,000 miles). This means you can find a Blue Certified Honda or Chevy at our Ford dealership.
  • Inspection: 139-point inspection.
  • Warranty: 90-day/4,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty.
  • Perks: 11,000 FordPass™ Rewards Points.

EV Certified

(For the Electric Future)

  • Eligibility: Ford EVs (like the Mustang Mach-E) up to 6 years old with fewer than 80,000 miles.
  • Inspection: 127-point specialized EV inspection.
  • Warranty: 8-year/100,000-mile BaseCARE EV Limited Warranty.
Risk-Remover and Ideal Mileage Sections

The Ultimate Risk-Remover: 14-Day Money-Back Guarantee

One of the biggest updates to the program is the 14-day/1,000-mile money-back guarantee. If you buy a Ford Blue Advantage vehicle from Bowen Scarff Ford and realize it doesn't fit your garage or your lifestyle, you can return it within two weeks (or 1,000 miles) for a refund.

Note: This essentially eliminates "buyer's remorse," a benefit you typically won't find with traditional used car purchases at other local dealerships.

Ideal Mileage for Pre-Owned Vehicles

Mileage is a critical factor when evaluating pre-owned cars. A common benchmark considers about 12,000 miles per year as average driving. For example, a 5-year-old vehicle with around 60,000 miles is generally considered to have standard mileage.

However, mileage alone doesn't tell the whole story. Factors such as maintenance history, driving conditions, and usage type (highway vs. city) significantly influence a vehicle's longevity and reliability.

Certified Pre-Owned vehicles at Bowen Scarff Ford are typically limited to models under 60,000 miles, ensuring that they have not been excessively driven or subjected to harsh conditions. This mileage cap supports better performance and fewer repairs throughout ownership.

Advice for Buyers:

  • Always review service records to confirm regular maintenance.
  • Consider having a trusted mechanic inspect any used or pre-owned vehicle before purchase.
  • Be cautious of vehicles with unusually low mileage for their age, as this can sometimes indicate odometer tampering or extended storage periods.
Reliability Cheat Sheet

CPO vs. Traditional Used: Quick Comparison (Recap)

Feature Gold Certified (CPO) Blue Certified (CPO) Standard Used
Inspection 172-point 139-point General Safety Check
Warranty 7-year Powertrain 90-day Comprehensive Balance of Factory (if any)
Roadside Assist 24/7 (7 years) 24/7 (90 days) Optional/Third party
Money-Back 14-day / 1,000 miles 14-day / 1,000 miles Not standard
FordPass Points 22,000 points 11,000 points N/A
Expert Tips for Buying a Reliable Used Ford SUV

Making the Best Choice for Your Needs at Bowen Scarff Ford

Deciding whether to buy a used or Certified Pre-Owned Ford ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and tolerance for risk. Bowen Scarff Ford provides a vast inventory of both options, supported by expert guidance to help Kent, Federal Way, and Tukwila drivers make informed decisions.

If your priority is budget-friendly pricing and you have the technical know-how or access to a well-versed mechanic, a maintained used Ford might be the perfect fit.

If you value manufacturer-backed assurance, extensive warranty coverage, and reduced maintenance worries, then a Certified Pre-Owned Ford offers an excellent balance of value and security. With vehicles undergoing rigorous inspections and reconditioning, plus access to Ford Roadside Assistance, CPO models provide peace of mind that standard used cars often cannot.

Visit us at 1157 Central Ave N, Kent, WA 98032 to explore our inventory of quality Ford vehicles. Speak with our knowledgeable staff by calling (253) 852-1480 to schedule a test drive or learn more about our Certified Pre-Owned options and service benefits.


© 2025 Bowen Scarff Ford

How Does A Used Or Certified Pre-Owned Ford Order Reservation Work?

Step 1

Reserve

Fill out the reservation form and submit your request.

Step 2

Order

We will reach out shortly before order banks open this season to finalize configurations, verify pricing, and place your order.

Step 3

Ship

We will notify you when Used Or Certified Pre-Owned Ford production and deliveries begin.

Save your model selection and your spot. You will be able to complete the configurations on your Used Or Certified Pre-Owned Ford before you finalize your order.

Menu

Get Directions

1157 Central Avenue North, Kent, WA, 98032

Contact Us

We would love to hear from you! Please fill out this form and we will get in touch with you shortly.

    By entering your phone number and clicking submit, you consent to receiving marketing and or transactional messages based on your selection from Bowen Scarff Ford at the number provided. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. No mobile information will be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. REPLY Help for help or STOP to cancel. View our Privacy policy and Terms of Service.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Bowen Scarff Ford 47.395529, -122.228139.