Amazon is expanding its automotive presence by partnering with Ford to sell certified pre-owned vehicles online. The program, currently available in Dallas, Seattle, and Los Angeles, allows customers to browse, finance, and purchase used Fords without visiting a dealership. The rollout reflects a growing trend of automakers testing direct-to-consumer sales models, bypassing traditional franchise networks.
How the Program Works
Shoppers within a 75-mile radius of participating markets can view available vehicles on Amazon Autos. Listings include detailed pricing breakdowns and financing options. Customers can complete the purchase online and schedule a pickup time. To mitigate risks associated with buying a vehicle sight unseen, Ford is offering a 14-day/1,000-mile money-back guarantee.
Certification Levels Explained
Ford offers three tiers of certification to ensure quality and transparency:
- Gold Certified: Vehicles up to six years old with under 80,000 miles undergo a 172-point inspection and come with a 12-month/12,000-mile limited warranty.
- EV Certified: Similar to Gold, but specifically for electric vehicles, featuring a specialized 127-point inspection and the same warranty coverage.
- Blue Certified: Covers both Ford and non-Ford vehicles up to ten years old with under 150,000 miles, passing a 139-point inspection and coming with a 90-day/4,000-mile warranty.
Dealer Response and Expansion
Approximately 20 Ford dealerships have already signed up for the Amazon Autos program, with another 160-180 expressing interest. This suggests a willingness among dealers to experiment with online sales channels, potentially to reach new customer segments or supplement traditional showroom traffic. The program’s success will hinge on consumer adoption, but the initial dealer response is encouraging.
The move reflects a broader industry shift toward digital retail, as automakers seek new ways to engage customers and streamline the car-buying process. Whether this becomes a mainstream sales model remains to be seen, but Ford and Amazon are betting that convenience and transparency will drive demand
