Under the US Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule, dealers who sell used vehicles must post a Buyers Guide on each one offered for sale. It states whether the car is sold with a warranty or as is, which systems are covered and a reminder to get an independent inspection. A Spanish version is needed when the sale is conducted in Spanish.
Who it applies to
The rule applies to dealers, defined by the FTC as those who sell or offer for sale a used vehicle after selling five or more used vehicles in the previous twelve months. Private sales are outside it.
What the guide shows
- Whether the vehicle is sold as is (no dealer warranty) or with a warranty.
- If there is a warranty: what percentage of repair costs the dealer pays, which systems are covered and for how long.
- Whether a service contract is available.
- A recommendation to ask for the vehicle's service history and to have an independent mechanic inspect it.
- The dealer's contact details for complaints.
Posting and handing over
The guide must be displayed on the vehicle, and the buyer should be given the final version at the time of sale; the terms on it override anything contradictory in the sales contract. Keep a copy.
In Dealer Garage
The US paperwork set includes an FTC Buyer's Guide template. Check it against the current FTC requirements before use. See US dealer paperwork.
Common mistakes
- Not posting it on every used vehicle offered for sale.
- Ticking "as is" on the guide and promising a warranty in the contract.
- Forgetting the Spanish version when the sale is in Spanish.
- Not giving the buyer the final copy.
Questions people ask
Does the Canadian market have an equivalent?
Canadian provinces have their own disclosure rules, such as Alberta's AMVIC disclosure. See the regional pages.
Is a window sticker the same thing?
No. A window sticker advertises features; the Buyers Guide is a required disclosure.
This is general information, not legal advice. Rules differ by state, province and territory and change over time; confirm what applies to you with your regulator or a qualified adviser.
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