The average price of a new car in the United States hit $50,000 for the very first time in history in 2025. While there are certainly many new vehicles priced lower than that average, new cars can still carry pretty hefty price tags for buyers who don’t want to or can’t afford to pay those prices. Accordingly, it’s no wonder that the pre-owned vehicle market continues to be robust.
However, buying a used vehicle can make you feel a little anxious, especially if you’re worried about hidden issues or prior maintenance history. If you’re not car savvy or don’t know a mechanic or good friend who can help, shopping for a used car can be intimidating. Unless you know what to look for, you may be worried about getting a bad deal.
That’s where Ford’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program can make all the difference. A Certified Pre-Owned Ford isn’t just another used car; it’s a carefully inspected, reconditioned, and manufacturer-backed vehicle that gives you confidence from the moment you drive it off the lot. In other words, you get the price benefit of a used vehicle, but still have assurances that the car you're getting is in good condition.
At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho, our customers often ask what really sets CPO vehicles apart from other used cars on the lot or on the market. Here’s what you can expect when you choose a Ford Certified Pre-Owned model and why it’s one of the best values in the used-car market.
What Makes a Ford “Certified”?
Before a Ford can earn one of the Certified Pre-Owned badges, it must meet strict requirements set by Ford Motor Company. There are three levels of CPO: Gold Certified, EV Certified, and Blue Certified. Ford’s standards ensure that only the highest-quality used vehicles qualify. To be eligible, vehicles must first meet these requirements:
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Be less than six model years old for Gold or EV levels (less than 10 for Blue)
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Have fewer than 80,000 miles (less than 150,000 for Blue)
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Pass a thorough vehicle history review
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Complete a comprehensive 172-point inspection (127 for EV, 139 for Blue)
Our upfront screening ensures that only well-maintained, late-model Fords enter the certification process.
The Inspection: Thorough From Bumper to Bumper
One of the biggest advantages of buying a CPO Ford is knowing that it’s been inspected and reconditioned by Ford-certified technicians. This inspection covers everything from mechanical components to interior functions, including:
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Engine and transmission
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Braking system
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Electrical and charging systems
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Steering and suspension
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Heating, cooling, and ventilation
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Safety systems
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Exterior and interior condition
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Road test performance
If a component doesn’t meet Ford’s strict standards, it’s repaired or replaced with genuine Ford parts. The service technicians at Mike White Ford take this process seriously. Our goal is simple: deliver a used vehicle that is as close to new as possible.
Powerful Warranty Protection for Peace of Mind
One of the most important advantages of a Ford CPE vehicle is that they all come with manufacturer-backed warranties that go beyond typical used-car coverage. While some used cars may still have time left on the original manufacturer’s warranty, that’s usually all you can count on unless you decide to pay for a separate extended warranty. Ford CPO vehicles automatically carry:
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Comprehensive Limited Warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles, covering over 1,000 components for Gold & EV (90-day/4000 mile for Blue)
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Powertrain Limited Warranty: 7 years/100,000 miles from the original in-service date (8 year for EV; 14-day, 1000 mile money back guarantee for Gold & Blue)
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24/7 Roadside Assistance during the warranty period
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Carfax Vehicle History Report for transparency and peace of mind
This level of coverage is one of the top reasons shoppers choose CPO: it protects your investment long after you leave the dealership.
Additional Benefits You’ll Appreciate
Ford’s CPO program also includes a few “new car” perks, including:
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Full tank of fuel at delivery
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Fresh oil and filter
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New wiper blades
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Service records available for review
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SiriusXM trial subscription on eligible models
These small but meaningful additions help you start your ownership experience with an enhanced level of confidence and excitement.
Why Choose a CPO Ford Over a Standard Used Vehicle?
All of these aspects of Ford’s CPO program add up to distinct advantages in the used-car experience: reliability, value, and long-term savings. You get:
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A newer vehicle with lower mileage
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Manufacturer-backed warranties
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Verified condition and history
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Reduced risk of unexpected repairs and their attendant costs
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Better financing options compared to typical used cars
For many buyers, CPO offers a balance between the affordability of used and the peace of mind that usually comes only with buying new.
Certified Pre-Owned at Mike White Ford
As a locally owned and family-operated dealership, we put our reputation behind every vehicle we certify. Our team takes pride in offering trusted, high-quality CPO options for North Idaho drivers who want reliability without the new-vehicle price tag.
If you’re looking for a dependable pre-owned vehicle, whether it’s a Ford F-150, Escape, Explorer, Bronco Sport, or another model, our CPO inventory is a great place to start. A Ford Certified Pre-Owned vehicle gives you the quality, assurance, and long-term value you deserve.
Call or visit Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint to explore our current CPO inventory and let our team help you find a vehicle that fits your needs and your budget. Discover the confidence of buying Certified Pre-Owned for quality you can trust, backed by the Ford brand.