What Is Dodge Certified Pre-Owned?

Dodge

Article QuickTakes:

• What makes a Dodge Certified Pre-Owned-worthy?
• The CPO warranty
• Other Dodge CPO perks

Buying a new car can be an expensive proposition. If you’re looking to save a few dollars, look at buying a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle (CPO). This manufacturer-backed certification can provide peace of mind as such cars must adhere to a broad set of standards before they’re put up for sale. Here’s what it actually takes for a Dodge to get the coveted CPO status.

What makes a Dodge Certified Pre-Owned?

For a Dodge to qualify for the CPO program, the vehicle must be less than five years old (based on the date when it was first sold) and have fewer than 75,000 miles on its odometer. It must also have a clean title and a vehicle history report free of major concerns. Lastly, any modifications the previous owner performed must not interfere with emissions, safety or operation of the car.

Every Dodge CPO vehicle goes through a 125-point inspection. Technicians will inspect the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension components, steering, and drivetrain to ensure all is in working order. If there is required maintenance to be done, like topping off fluids or changing the oil, the technicians will take care of that, as well. If there is a safety recall on the vehicle, the problem is fixed. After a road test and detail, the car is officially ready for sale.

The Dodge CPO warranty

Each CPO Dodge gets a seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, good from the original in-service date. In other words, if you’re buying a car that is 4 years old, you only have three years left on that warranty.

Dodge also includes a three-month/3,000-mile Maximum Care warranty that protects most vehicle components. Here the warranty kicks in after the car’s three-year/36,000-mile Basic New Vehicle Warranty ends. If the car is more than 3 years old, the Maximum Care warranty begins on the purchase date of the CPO Dodge.

For both warranties, Dodge charges a deductible on any repair work, so expect to pay up to $200 if something goes wrong. Dodge also offers three certified upgrade plans for those who want an extended warranty.

Other Dodge CPO perks

There is no return policy for a Dodge CPO vehicle. Once you sign on the dotted line, there is no going back. However, buyers get a Carfax report and a three-month subscription to Sirius XM, if the vehicle is so equipped.

Dodge CPO buyers who spring for Dodge’s Added Care Plus and Maximum Care extended warranties get rental car reimbursement of up to $35 per day, up to $175 should their vehicle become inoperable. Dodge will also take care of up to $35 in taxi fares should you need a ride to the dealership. The automaker also offers roadside assistance that includes the delivery of 2 gallons of gas, battery jumps, lockout services, tire-change services, and 24-hour towing. However, drivers are responsible for any fees over $100. If the car breaks down 100 miles or more from home, Dodge will reimburse you up to $1,000 to cover food, lodging and a rental car.