Ford Motor Company is taking a major step into the digital retail space by partnering with Amazon to allow its franchised dealers to sell certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles directly through the e-commerce giant’s platform. This move expands Amazon’s growing automotive retail strategy and positions Ford as the second major automaker—after Hyundai—to introduce vehicle sales on Amazon.
A New Way to Buy Used Cars Online
The partnership allows shoppers to browse participating Ford dealers’ CPO inventories on Amazon Autos. Customers can secure financing, begin paperwork, and schedule pickup from a selected dealership—all without stepping foot in the showroom until the final signature. While some steps still require in-person verification, Ford says the goal is to streamline the car-buying experience for consumers who want to avoid long hours at a dealership.
Ford’s launch begins with dealers in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas, with wider expansion planned over the coming months. More than 160 of Ford’s 2,900 U.S. retailers have expressed interest, and roughly 20 dealers are already onboarding.
Why Certified Pre-Owned Makes Sense on Amazon
Unlike Hyundai’s arrangement—which focuses on new vehicles—Ford’s Amazon offering revolves around certified pre-owned cars and SUVs. CPO models have undergone rigorous inspections, reconditioning, and manufacturer-backed certification. They also include warranty protections that typical used vehicles lack, making them particularly appealing for online shoppers who want quality assurance.
In California, a CPO vehicle can carry extra legal protections and qualify for the Lemon Law, whereas used vehicles without a CPO designation may not. MMO Law’s lead attorney, Michael Ouziel, was part of the team that established case law in Kiluk v. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC, identifying that CPO vehicles can be covered under the California Lemon Law,
As part of its CPO Warranty, Ford is offering three CPO certification tiers, each with different warranty coverage, plus a 14-day or 1,000-mile money-back guarantee for Amazon buyers. This provides consumers with additional confidence and aligns with Amazon’s established reputation for customer-centric return policies.
Why This Matters for the Future of Car Buying
Ford CEO Jim Farley has openly acknowledged that Tesla’s direct-to-consumer sales model gives it a cost advantage. By partnering with Amazon, Ford is attempting to replicate that streamlined digital experience while still honoring franchise dealer laws. As more consumers embrace online vehicle transactions, traditional automakers are under increasing pressure to modernize the dealership experience.
Questions remain as to how Ford and Amazon will handle the consumer complaints regarding the sales process and the inevitable consumer complaints regarding defects that occur under warranty. As we covered in previous post here, under the California Lemon Law, if the manufacturer cannot repair your vehicle under warranty after repeated attempts, you may be entitled to compensation.
At MMO Law, A.P.C. we have substantial experience litigating and negotiating lemon law claims throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside, San Diego, Sacramento and many other counties throughout California.
Call today at (310) 933-4493 for a free consultation with a California Lemon Law Lawyer regarding your potential Lemon Law claim.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is meant for general information and advertisement purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.