Everyone who has kept a clean Babe Ruth rookie cards in safe custody knows the value of such an item. They retain their value over time, and can give a significant return.

Every day, more people are looking for classic, high-quality products, whether they’re searching for oil paintings at auctions, antique furniture at estate sales, or buying a luxury car through a certified preowned program. Mercedes-Benz is an example of such a high-performance automobile. Seventy-four per cent of all Mercedes-Benz cars sold in the United States are still in use today. This is a testimony to the quality and enduring value of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

It’s not always about finding a new classic. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for a watch, jewelry, or an automobile. The best brands have the best pre-owned products. Finding a high-quality pre-owned vehicle can be challenging. Here are some tips that will make it easier.

* Do your research. The Internet has a wealth of information on pre-owned vehicles, including pricing and blue book values at sites like www.autotrader.com. www.kbb.comYou can get vehicle history reports from outlets such as www.carfax.com.

* Review products in person. It’s important that you do some background research before visiting the vehicle. Use the information you have gathered online, in the newspaper, or from word-of-mouth to carefully inspect the interior and exterior. Make sure to inspect the underside and hood of the vehicle. Take the vehicle on a test drive. Turn off the radio to listen to the engine.

* Make sure the car is inspected by a professional. Have your mechanic inspect the vehicle before you sign that check. For added security, you might consider buying your car through a pre-owned certified program like the one offered by Mercedes-Benz. It requires that vehicles meet strict criteria and undergo a rigorous inspection. This will include a bumper to bumper inspection of the vehicle’s appearance.

“Because only select vehicles are eligible for the program, our clients are finding that using the Certified Pre-Owned program is an excellent way to experience the performance, safety and style of Mercedes at a price similar to some new, non-luxury vehicles,” said Niles Barlow, General Manager of Pre-Owned & Fleet Operations, Mercedes-Benz USA.

It can be very rewarding to find a classic vehicle, such as a luxury car, at a greatly reduced price. Visit www.certified-pre-owned vehicles. www.mbusa.com.