After launching a revamped dealer certification program in late January, TrueCar announced this week its dealer network has surpassed the 10,000 mark.

This number includes 8,700 U.S. franchised dealers and 1,300 independent dealerships specializing in used vehicles.

Company management explained this latest benchmark pushes TrueCar toward its goal of including a third of U.S. dealers in its network.

“We’ve reached a threshold of dealers that provides strong brand and geographic coverage to ensure there are convenient, competitively priced dealers close to consumers,” said Scott Painter, TrueCar’s chief executive officer and founder. “Our business expands as we grow our franchise network and enlarging our non-franchise dealers gives consumers more options on the used-car side.”

Bob McLean is general manager of Larry H. Miller Lexus in Spokane, Wash., a newly added TrueCar Certified Dealership that helped the company reach the 10,000-dealership mark.

 “With TrueCar it’s a very easy process for the customer,” said McLean. “TrueCar also allows us to connect with customers we wouldn’t have had access to without the service.”

The company will be working to build its network even further this year, and is also working on enhancements to its mobile app.

“Forward-looking dealers are acknowledging the evolution of auto retailing and recognizing the strength of TrueCar's brand and loyal user base,” said Mike Timmons, TrueCar’s senior vice president of dealer development. “We wish to thank our dealer partners for their support and we look forward to helping them grow their business.”