What does certified mean

Polly, it means that the car has been reconditioned and a thorough inspection process has been done on the car. Highly desirable, but, make sure you purchase the car from a "new car dealership ". This is very important. They have the most to lose, reputation wise, with new car buyers and people in the local community. Do not purchase a car from a used car dealer especially one who has a small business. Yes, I know how that sounds, but, I'm not being elitist here, a lot of people are burned in auto sales every day. If you had no other option than going to either a used car lot or private party, then, your best defense is to ask them for all the records and repairs done to the vehicle and give you permission to take the car to your mechanic. If they don't have records or allow you to have the car fully inspected, walk away. There are other cars out there. If they have nothing to hide, they'll hide nothing. The problem is, when you buy a used car, you're buying someone else's problems. This is why certified used cars came into existence. The dealership will find everything wrong and fix it for you before you take delivery. One final thing, you're credit union, if you have one is the best place to finance a car and they will offer you an extended warranty much cheaper than the dealer. Take it, it will be worth the money and peace of mind. Most Federal Credit Unions are open to the public. Google one in your area. What kind of car are you thinking about buying. I have a Subaru Outback 2.5 Limited and love it. Finally, ask them about a lease return, try to avoid a rental car, they generally live harder lives. Be specific, they will know if it was a rental. Ask them for the Carfax report. Good luck.