When buying a certified used car in Minnesota the word “certified” now really means something. Earlier this month a new law took effect that will regulate what a car dealer can say is a certified vehicle. It is part of a new car owners’ bill of rights that lawmakers passed in early 2007.  It is something that consumer activists as well as car dealers both agree is a good idea.

The term “certified” is used quite liberally and much too loosely in the automobile industry and the new used car warranty law gives it some credibility.  It is important to note that “certified” still means different things to different people. With the old law a dealer who advertised a “certified” car could define the term however he felt he wanted it presented. Now the law says that a certified used vehicle must include some type of auto warranty and the dealer must state that the car is in good shape and has no current damage.  As we are all aware, used car warranties are an essential part of any vehicle’s sale.