Just because you're considering the purchase of a certified pre-owned vehicle doesn't mean you're off the hook in terms of doing the necessary research and preparing a list of questions to ask before signing on the dotted line. Here are 10 tips to help make your certified used car purchase a pleasant one:

1. Research resale values the same way you would with a non-certified used car. The Cars.com Kelley Blue Book Used-Car Values pricing tool gives average values that are determined by the vehicle's condition, mileage, optional equipment and other factors.
2. Make sure the manufacturer — and not just the local dealer — is offering the certification. That way you know the CPO car meets the manufacturer's stringent certified requirements, and you'll be able to have your vehicle serviced at locations nationwide.
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