(June 30, 2011) PHOENIX (PRNewswire) — ClassicCars.com today announced the expansion of its first-in-the-industry Certified Classic Vehicle program to include dealer inventory. Initially, certification was available only to private sellers. 

Enhancements to the program now allow classic and collector car dealers the opportunity to certify any number of vehicles on their lots, whether those vehicles are dealer-owned inventory or consignment inventory. In a related announcement, ClassicCars.com also introduced a credit program for qualified dealers, enabling them to certify as many as 50 vehicles on their lots with no up-front costs.

Listings for ClassicCars.com Certified Classic Vehicles receive preferred placement in search results and bear an exclusive certification seal that clearly distinguishes them from non-certified vehicles. Certified listings include a copy of the signed inspection report in Adobe PDF format along with other details about the vehicle's certification and its buyer benefits.

Dealer-specific enhancements to the Certified Classic Vehicle program include on-vehicle and in-showroom promotional materials such as window clings, brochures, and posters.  A comprehensive training kit for sales staff is also available for dealers accepted into the program.

Certified dealer vehicles undergo the same comprehensive 50-point inspection by an independent ASE-certified technician that private seller vehicles do, and they are offered with the same 3-month/3,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and one year of nationwide roadside assistance at no additional cost to the buyer. 

The inspection, certification, warranty, and roadside assistance program are paid for by the dealer (for dealer-owned inventory) or by the consignor (for consigned inventory).  The certification process typically takes two to three days, and once certified, the vehicle remains certified until sold.  Not every vehicle qualifies for certification; only those in sound mechanical condition as determined by the independent ASE-certified technician earn certification.

The warranty and roadside assistance program take effect upon the vehicle's sale and are written in the buyer's name. The program's powertrain warranty covers mechanical engine components, the transmission, and the drive axle.  Emergency roadside services include towing, battery service, flat tire assistance, fluid delivery, and lock-out assistance for a full year.

"We see a great deal of pent-up demand among dealers for additional ways to gain a competitive edge," said Roger Falcione, ClassicCars.com President and CEO.  "We're thrilled to offer this service to our dealer network."

Dealer reaction has been positive. "I am excited to offer the certification program for many of our classics," said Harry Clark, owner of Classic Promenade, a specialty dealer in Temecula, Calif.  "More than half of our business is overseas or from across the country and it is rare that the buyers have an opportunity to fly out to personally inspect before buying.  The independent certification offers our clients peace of mind.  This will certainly increase our sales velocity and offers terrific value to our clients."

Click here for more information about the ClassicCars.com Vehicle Certification Program. Dealers interested in applying for the ClassicCars.com Certified Classic Vehicle program should contact Alan Gill at 480-285-1600.