When used cars are certified, they are: i. Vehicles that have passed a thorough inspection which makes them eligible for an improved warranty and special financing. ii. Less than five years old with less than 50,000 miles. iii.

The certifying authority (usually the dealership) must have made sure that all the maintenance is up-to-date, which means that all the oil changes and transmission flushes, etc. (normal maintenance) should be complete. iv. The parts of the car that are wearable, such as brake pads and tires, have at least 50% of their life left.

A vehicle is "Certified" after all maintenance is done and the inspection is completed. When used cars are "certified," they generally have a better warranty and can help you qualify for better financing rates. You should buy a certified used car if you can because you almost always get a good deal. There are a couple things you should know before you buy a certified used car. 1) Certified used cars that are under one year old are almost always used rental cars.

Buying a used rental car can be a good thing. Typically, they are maintained well and are an excellent value. However, they aren't for everyone. If you want more information before you decide, check out our advice on "buying a used rental car." 2) All certifications are not equal. Ford, Toyota, GM, BMW, and other auto manufacturers have great certification programs that are superior to dealerships.

Dealin' Dave's car lot may offer certifications that are, in reality, just a sales gimmick. If you can, it is usually better to buy a car that an auto manufacturer has certified. Lastly, always request the "vehicle certification inspection" report before you buy a certified used car. This report, filled out by the inspecting mechanic, gives the details of his/her opinion of the functions and various parts of the vehicle.

After the dealerships certify a vehicle, they must keep the reports on file. Many times they are required to give a copy to whomever buys the car. You should buy your car somewhere else if the dealership either doesn't have the report or especially if they refuse show it to you.

Author Jason Lancaster, an auto industry veteran, developed AccurateAutoAdvice.com. You'll find accurate advice on certified preowned cars and certified used cars.