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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.

Hello friends

To overcome the dread of buying a new car, you merely need some knowledge of the business. You are about to embark on making a purchase that is second in magnitude only to buying a new home.
In order to protect yourself, you need some information as to the tactics of the average automobile dealership.
You will be surprised at how little time it takes to read, digest, memorize, practice and ultimately transform yourself from "sucker" to "expert" at negotiating for a new car or truck, and finding your way through the dealership maze from the Showroom, through the Business Office and out of the Service Department.
Automobile dealers usually pay their sales staff a commission based upon the amount of gross profit the salesperson develops from the sale of the vehicle. In addition to this regular commission, there are usually monthly volume bonuses paid when a certain number of units are sold. The later part of the month is the time that the sales staff is eager to get the needed units to reach their goal so as to collect substantial bonuses that are offered. This includes the sales managers and assistants. Late in the month is the time to make your grand entry into the dealership to negotiate a fair deal.

Have a good day

Hi
Knowing what you want -- or need -- before you start making the rounds of dealerships can save both time and money. It's human nature to go looking for a practical family vehicle like a minivan, but be distracted in the showroom by a flashy sport sedan that costs more. Also, more buyers than ever are climbing out of passenger cars and into light trucks -- sport-utility vehicles, minivans, and pickups. Light trucks now account for 55.5 percent of new vehicle sales. Whatever the model, if emotion drives you to an impulsive purchase, you are likely to pay more and suffer regret later.

Thanks