AUBURN HILLS, MI – To help a salesperson effectively present the features and benefits of a Brand Spankin Used certified pre-owned vehicle (CPOV), DaimlerChrysler currently offers onsite CPOV training at Five Star dealerships free of charge, as well as training at off-site venues. Ultimately such a program leads to better gross and return-on-investment, higher closing ratios and increased owner loyalty along with happier salespeople, managers, and dealers.

"Certified used vehicles represent the fastest-growing niche within the used-vehicle industry," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group senior VP - Sales. "We simply cannot afford not to be in the game. Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles drive showroom traffic and add to the value of the franchise."

Also, innovations in technology such as the Used Vehicle Total Order Planning System (U-TOPS) now enable CPOV dealerships to get the most in-demand products at the best prices. U-TOPS was specifically developed by Chrysler Group dealers for Chrysler Group dealers. The system gives dealers first-priority access to DaimlerChrysler's used-vehicle inventory portfolios, while improving a dealership's ability to buy and sell used vehicles to other dealerships.

Access to certifiable inventory has been fundamental to CPOV dealer success. U-TOPS has helped CPOV dealerships increase used-vehicle gross profit by an average of 17 percent while reducing over-aged inventory by 20 percent. Additionally, U-TOPS decreases inventory age by an average of 14 days while raising the annual inventory turn rate by 20 percent.

For a vehicle to be certified under the Chrysler Group's used-vehicle program, it must be a 2000 through 2006 model pre-owned vehicle with less than 65,000 miles and pass a 125-point inspection. Chrysler Group's CPO vehicles are backed by an 8-year/80,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, a three-month or 3,000-mile Maximum Care warranty, 24-hour, 365-day full roadside assistance, $35 per day rental car allowance and a Carfax vehicle title history report.