Certified-Car Shopping Tips

Here are some tips if you're thinking about buying a certified used car:

• Read the certification benefits carefully. Find out what the warranty covers and whether you'll need to pay a deductible for qualifying repairs. We think you should skip any plan with a deductible of more than $100.
  
  
• Find out where you must bring the car for warranty work — the original dealer, any same-brand dealership or some type of independent repair shop. Ask what you're required to do in emergencies if no dealer is nearby.
  
  
• Note whether the certification is transferable if you sell the car and, if so, whether there's a transfer fee.
  
  
• Examine the checklist the dealership mechanic used when inspecting the car you're considering. Once you decide to buy, ask for a copy.
  
  
• Don't take the dealership's word on the car's condition. Have it checked by your own mechanic, preferably one experienced in bodywork.
  
  
• Aggressively negotiate the price of the vehicle. You can get an idea what a non-certified vehicle of the same age and mileage is worth through Consumer Reports' Used Car Price Service or on used-car-pricing Web sites. Otherwise, check the local classifieds. You may not get this price for a certified vehicle with a warranty, but the figure will give you a starting point for negotiating.
  
  
• Certification programs backed by dealership or a third-party company can be a real wild card. If they include an extended warranty or service plan, pay special attention to the details.
  
  
• Consider looking at a non-certified model. You could save hundreds or even thousands by foregoing the certification warranty and accepting a few extra blemishes. You should expect any late-model used car to be in good shape, certified or not.