Chrysler Expands CPO Program to Encompass More Dealers

February 04, 2008

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AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — As new-vehicle sales are expected to dip industry-wide in 2008, certified pre-owned sales are becoming increasingly important to dealers and automakers.

In response to this, Chrysler officially announced late last week that it is extending its CPO program to encompass more of its dealers.

All qualifying U.S. Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge dealers can be authorized for the program, whereas previously, only Five Star dealers were eligible, the automaker explained.

"We are pleased to announce the extension of our certified pre-owned vehicle program to all qualifying Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge U.S. dealers," commented Darryl Jackson, Chrysler vice president of U.S. sales.

"Opening the program to all of our dealers is a win-win situation, in which dealers can introduce certified shoppers to the best assortment of pre-owned Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles available, and customers are invited to experience the Chrysler brand family of vehicles at a great value," Jackson continued.

Chrysler offered a bit of history regarding its certified program, which is marketed as "Brand Spankin' Used."

The national program started in the spring of 2002 and was available exclusively to Five Star Dealers. Chrysler claims its CPO program has grown faster than any other in the industry.

CPO sales have been on the upswing for the last 14 years, research from Autodata indicated.

Figures from December pointed to a 2-percent improvement in sales among all automakers for 2007. Chrysler, meanwhile, experienced a 5-percent incline in CPO sales for the year, according to the company.

Chrysler noted that this marked the sixth straight year it has more than doubled the industry average for CPO sales growth.

"Given the considerable success Chrysler's certified pre-owned vehicle initiative has enjoyed already, we have high expectations for continued growth as we expand eligibility to more dealers this year," Jackson stressed.

In order for dealerships to qualify for the program, they must pass an extensive evaluation of facilities and operational processes, as well as salesperson and technician training accreditation, executives explained.

For a vehicle to meet Chrysler's CPO standard, it must be no older than a 2003 model and have less than 65,000 miles. The vehicle must also pass a 125-point inspection, ensuring adherence to mechanical, safety and condition standards.

Chrysler's CPO vehicles come with an eight-year, 80,000-mile limited powertrain warranty with full roadside assistance included, according to the company.

Additionally, there is a $35-per-day car rental allowance, executives highlighted. The CPO program's three-month or 3,000-mile Maximum Care warranty can be tacked on to what remains of any three-year, 36,000-mile new-vehicle warranty, as well.

"Our certified pre-owned vehicle brand introduces customers to our family of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge products," Jackson said. "Once our customers discover the quality and peace of mind provided by our CPO vehicles, our goal is for them to consider another new or certified-used Chrysler product when they are in the market for their next vehicle."

There is also special financing available from Chrysler Financial, officials highlighted.

As part of Chrysler's partnership with Carfax, vehicle history reports are available as well as a Carfax limited buyback guarantee.

For more information, visit www.brandspankinused.com.

Used Car Manager