More Information for Used-Car Buyers May Soon Be Required The Federal Trade Commission said on Tuesday that it was considering revisions to the Buyer's Guide that has been affixed to the window of used cars sold by dealers since 1995. The Buyers Guide window sticker used in states that do not require used-car warranties tells a potential buyer whether the car is offered with a warranty and, if so, its terms. Also listed are the vehicle systems covered by the warranty, the duration of coverage and the percentage of any warranty repair costs paid by the dealer. An alternate version of the guide is used in states that require warranty coverage. In a document on its Web site, the Federal Trade Commission said proposed changes to the guide "would empower consumers without adding burdens to businesses." If enacted, the revisions would require used car dealers to add text encouraging consumers to seek vehicle history information, provide a statement in Spanish telling car buyers they can request a copy of the guide in Spanish and add catalytic converters and air bags to the list of included vehicle systems that appear on the guide. The new rules would also require boxes the dealer could check to tell consumers if the manufacturer's new-car warranty still applied, if a manufacturer's used-car warranty applied or if another type of warranty was offered. John Hallerud, an F.T.C. spokesman, said in a telephone interview that the listing of catalytic converters and air bags could help prevent the sale of used vehicles where those parts are inoperative or missing. Mr. Hallerud added that incidents have been reported of air bag failures in used cars and of catalytic converters being removed for their precious metal content. The proposed guide would also encourage consumers to ask if the car can be inspected by an independent mechanic before purchase, add information about defects common to systems listed on the guide and encourage buyers to get all promises in writing. If a used-car dealer's sales contract contradicted the Buyer's Guide, the language in the guide would govern the transaction. Bill Golling, owner and president of several new- and used-car dealerships in metropolitan Detroit, said in a telephone interview that he had not yet had time to review the proposed changes in detail, but at first glance they seemed fine. "I want our customers to be happy with their purchase," he said. The F.T.C. regularly reviews its rules and guides to ensure that they are effective for consumers while not overly burdensome to business. Before requesting comment on proposed changes to the Buyer's Guide, the agency sought comment on the current guide rule and determined that it would benefit consumers. Those who wish to comment on the proposed changes will have until Feb. 11. Comments can be filed electronically on the F.T.C. Web site.