CARY, N.C. -

Though perhaps not always discussed in great detail, there certainly are ties between the certified pre-owned and F&I segments of a dealership’s business.

Auto Remarketing looked into these interwoven departments during our annual “Best CPO Dealers in the United States” special edition this winter.

How has the availability of financing helped you move more CPO metal? That’s the question we posted to Golling Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, which had 755 certified sales in 2014, seventh among all Fiat Chrysler Automobiles dealers in the U.S.

“Not only have lenders made credit readily available again, they are also competing for the business. The competition between them has created better rates and better terms for our customers,” said Adam Hayford, pre-owned director at Golling Auto Group.

“Lenders have also realized the value that a certified car brings to the equation. Lenders have realized their risk is greatly reduced on a factory certified car and to entice dealers to certify their cars they have started offering higher advances for cars, that are certified over cars that are not,” Hayford added. “Good partnerships with lenders that offer flexible programs allow us an opportunity to sell more certified cars.”

Turning to another Big 3 dealer, we asked Beau Townsend Ford Lincoln Inc. — the Ford brand’s 10th-ranked CPO dealer last year with 195 sales — how certified pre-owned vehicles have opened the door for additional F&I income.

“The Ford CPO program is paramount to creating an exceptional ownership experience at Beau Townsend Ford Lincoln. F&I profitability is increased by having reduced cost for Ford, especially extended terms and mileage available to meet our customers’ needs,” said Larry Taylor, owner of Beau Townsend Ford.

Staff Writer Nick Zulovich contributed to this report.