If you're thinking about purchasing any Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, make sure you have the information necessary for making the right decision. Follow these six simple CPO tips before you buy.

1. Find out who is behind the warranty coverage. Some certified programs provide a service contract that may be backed by an independent or even an offshore company. Ford Certified Pre-Owned warranty coverage is manufacturer backed.

2. Compare the length of the warranty coverage. Some manufacturers offer only a 24-month warranty, while the Ford Certified Pre-Owned warranty coverage is 6 years/100,000 miles.

3. Ask for a copy of the warranty and find out exactly what is covered.

4. Find out what out-of-pocket expenses, often a $100 deductible, will be covered if warranty work is needed on the vehicle. All Ford CPO vehicles feature the following benefits in addition to covering certain aspects of the actual vehicle:

• Travel expense reimbursement of up to $500 for up to three days of lodging and meals
• Destination expense assistance of up to $75 to cover the emergency cost of a taxi, shuttle or rental car to get you to your destination
• Rental car reimbursement of up to $28 per day for up to five days if the vehicle requires overnight mechanical repairs
• 24-hour roadside assistance for the length of the powertrain warranty

5. Ask to see the inspection reports on the vehicle you're interested in and determine what standards are used to certify a vehicle.