At Thrifty Car Sales, we're as selective about the vehicles we offer as our customers are about the vehicles they buy. That's why every Thrifty Certified® vehicle must pass an extensive systematic inspection before it can fly the Thrifty Certified® flag. And if a vehicle flies the Thrifty Certified® flag, then our customers can rest assured: it's backed by either the balance of the factory warranty or a Thrifty Certified® limited warranty (see dealer for details).

From the odometer to the engine block, our Thrifty Certified® inspection ensures both our dealers and our customers of vehicle quality. Here's what it takes to be a Thrifty Certified® vehicle:

INITIAL INSPECTION:

• Odometer reading is supported by the general condition of the vehicle.
• Lube sticker or maintenance logs support mileage.
• Oil and oil filter have been changed prior to sale.

UNDER THE HOOD:

• Engine* block, cylinder heads, intake and exhaust manifolds have been checked for cracks and corrected.
• Vehicle has been checked for obvious leaks, including power steering, and applicable corrections made.
• Automatic transmission fluid* is at the prescribed level and is not contaminated or discolored.
• Coolant is at the prescribed level and is not contaminated.
• Cooling system has been pressure tested to check for and correct any leaks.
• Cooling fan has been tested for proper operation and corrected, if needed.
• Power steering pump reservoir and gear box are at the prescribed fluid level. Steering system is not making noise.
• Brake master cylinder is at the prescribed fluid level and shows no evidence of leaks.
• Battery is charged and cables are corrosion-free and properly secured.
• Air cleaner is clean.

UNDER VEHICLE:

• Visually inspect under vehicle.
• Transmission case is free of cracks and leaks.
• Standard transmission fluid* is at the prescribed level (also transfer case on 4 x 4s) and shows no evidence of leaks.
• CV boots are free from cracks or deterioration.
• Struts are not leaking or weak.
• Brake wear has been inspected (front, visual - rear, pull both) and brake pads or brake shoes have been replaced if thickness is less than 3mm.
• Suspension systems (i.e., ball joints, tie rods) have been checked for wear and looseness and any loose parts have been replaced.
• Rear differential fluid is at the prescribed level (also front axle on 4 x 4s) and housing is not leaking.

ROAD TEST TO ENSURE MECHANICAL SOUNDNESS:

• Engine* is operating properly and shows no obvious signs of problems (i.e., excessive smoking, poor performance, rough idle, etc.).
• Engine oil pressure and operating temperatures are within normal hot / cold range levels.
• Automatic transmission* is shifting smoothly and quietly.
• Standard transmission* is shifting properly and quietly (also transfer case on 4 x 4s).
• Vibration in the driveline, if any, has been corrected.
• All manual switches (e.g., power window, heating fan, windshield wiper, door locks, etc.) have been inspected for proper operation. Audio system is fully operational. All gauges work and display properly.
• Air conditioning has been inspected for proper operation and any freon leaks corrected.
• Steering has been checked for proper operation.
• Brakes and calipers have been checked for proper operation and leaks. Pads and linings, if worn, have been replaced.
• Parking brake has been checked for proper operation.
• Conditions causing unusual noises in the engine, transmission and/or drive axle have been corrected.
• All emission system parts are functional and meet required standards.
• CV joints exhibit no abnormal noise on hard left or right turns.

Thrifty Car Sales also offers an exceptional Extended Service Contract program, including our own Thrifty Care® program that can help you protect your investment for up to 6 years or 100,000 miles. Click here for more information.

* Engine, transmission and drive axle must be the same as Original Equipment specified for the vehicle (i.e., no modifications) and meet all applicable Federal Regulations to be eligible for Thrifty Certified® coverage.