Just because a vehicle is certified, doesn’t make the buying experience any less daunting. Many dealers combine the hard-sell tactics of both new and used vehicles when hawking certified vehicles. Finding the right certified program can make the buying experience a lot easier, especially if consumers visit the dealership armed with a few tips.

1. Haggle
Just because the vehicle is certified and has a price on the windshield doesn’t mean that the price can’t be negotiated. Dealerships mark up certified vehicles just like they would a used car, so be sure to sharpen your haggling skills.

2. Shop Around
Each manufacturer-backed CPO program is different. If you don’t have your heart set on one particular vehicle, shop CPO programs first. Some offer buy-back options if you aren’t satisfied, others offer impressive certification procedures. All offer warranties, but the coverage is different between plans, so it pays to shop different programs.

3. Read the Fine Print
Because each program is different, it pays to read the fine print. Find out exactly what’s covered by the CPO warranty. Check out the procedure for filing a warranty claim. Make sure roadside assistance doesn’t come with a deductible for premium services.

4. Check the List
Ask for a copy of the certified checklist. Make sure the dealership has checked all of the required equipment. Also, ask for the maintenance history of the vehicle. This should be available from the service department. See to it that all recall work has been performed before you drive away.

5. Go For a Drive
Don’t assume the vehicle is in perfect working condition. Take it for a long test drive--ask if you can take it home for a night. Make sure to check all of the controls and even familiarize yourself with the operations in the owner’s manual. If you plan on towing, make sure the vehicle you are considering can handle the load.

6. Avoid Extras
The dealership will try to tack on extras like rustproofing, paint sealer, or fabric protector. You don’t want these. Also, watch out for up-sells like theft protection or dealer service plans. Though these extras may sound appealing, they can certainly be had for less outside of the dealership.

7. Do Your Homework
Once you’ve picked a CPO plan and found the right vehicle, check the manufacturer’s Web site or local classified ads for deals in your area. Almost every CPO plan offers factory-backed cut-rate financing, and a few offer customer cash.

8. Check the Title
Most CPO plans guarantee a clean title, but it doesn’t hurt to ask for the vehicle history report to prove it. If the dealership is unwilling to show the report, you can run it for yourself here.

9. Financing
Even though dealerships often offer financing, you’d be better off securing it elsewhere before making a purchase. Chances are, you can get a better rate at a bank or other financial institution and end up saving yourself a lot in the long run. Never sign a bill of sale that says "financing pending."

10. Contact Info
Get contact information for the dealer service department. Introduce yourself to the service manager. It can’t hurt to build a relationship that might work to your advantage in the future. Also, be sure to get the 800-number for roadside assistance. Put both numbers in your wallet or cell phone for future reference.