The FTC Used Car Rule: the Buyers Guide window sticker, explained

Which dealers need the FTC Buyers Guide, which vehicles it covers, what it must say about warranties, where it goes on the car, and the copy the buyer keeps.

If you sell used cars, the Federal Trade Commission's Used Car Rule says each one on your lot needs a Buyers Guide: the window form that tells shoppers whether the car comes with a warranty. It's simple once it's routine, and the fines for skipping it are large.

Who it applies to

Dealers who sell or offer for sale more than five used vehicles in a 12-month period
In every state except Maine and Wisconsin, which have their own similar rules
Not banks and financial institutions, and not a business selling a car to its own employee

Which vehicles

Used cars, light trucks and vans, including demonstrators and program cars
Under 8,500 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, under 6,000 pounds curb weight, and under 46 square feet of frontal area
Not motorcycles, not farm equipment, and not vehicles sold for scrap or parts with a salvage certificate

What the Buyers Guide says

Whether the car is sold "As Is - No Dealer Warranty", with "Implied Warranties Only" (in states that limit As Is sales), or with a dealer warranty
If there is a warranty: each system covered, named in full (shorthand like "drive train" isn't allowed), how long the coverage lasts, and the percentage of parts and labor the dealer pays
The car's make, model, year and VIN, the dealer's name and address, and who to contact with complaints

Where it goes

On or in the car, where shoppers can read both sides: hanging from the rear-view mirror or a side mirror, under a wiper, or in a side window. Not in the glove box or the trunk. You can take it down for a test drive, but put it back afterwards.

At the sale

Give the buyer the original or a copy, showing any changes you agreed in the deal (for example a warranty you added)
The sales contract must say that the Buyers Guide is part of the contract and overrides anything in the contract that contradicts it. The FTC's guide gives the exact wording
If you conduct the sale in Spanish, display a Spanish-language Buyers Guide

Why it matters

The FTC can fine dealers per violation (the maximum is adjusted for inflation each year), and state officials can enforce their own versions. A Buyers Guide on every car, filled in to match the deal, is the simple way to stay clear.

Source: FTC: Dealer's Guide to the Used Car Rule. Updated October 2026.

General information in plain English, checked against the sources named when we wrote it. It isn't legal, tax or professional advice, and rules change: for your own business, check the official source or ask your accountant or attorney. See our website terms.