When it comes to buying a used car, love at first sight can blind even the savviest of buyers.

Shiny chrome wheels and exhaust tips can draw a buyer's attention away from the plume of excessive exhaust smoke emitted on start-up or the fact the brake lights don't work. Whether buying a used car from a dealer or an individual, the Federal Trade Commission recommends buyers examine the car using an inspection checklist, which can be found in magazines and books and on Internet sites that deal with used cars.

The FTC also recommends test driving the car under varied road conditions - on hills, highways and in stop-and-go traffic. It also doesn't hurt to ask questions. Ask for the car's maintenance record from the owner, dealer, or repair shop.

For those who want to be extra thorough, the FTC recommends hiring a mechanic to inspect the car.

Buying a car from a private individual is different than buying from a dealer.

That's because private sales generally aren't covered by the Used Car Rule, or by "implied warranties" of state law, according to the FTC.  A private sale probably will be "as is" - where the buyer will have to pay for anything that goes wrong after the sale.

If buying from a dealership, doing a little homework beforehand can pay off, according to the Better Business Bureau.

Buyers can check out the dealer's reputation and reliability first by calling the local BBB for a reliability report. Contact and location information on all BBBs in the United States and Canada are located at the main Web site at www.bbb.org under "Locate a BBB."

Buyers should also consider asking the dealer how to get in touch with the car's previous owner, according to the BBB.

The FTC's Used Car Rule requires dealers to post a Buyers Guide in every used car they offer for sale. The Buyers Guide gives a great deal of information, including whether the vehicle is being sold "as is" or with a warranty; what percentage of the repair costs a dealer will pay under the warranty; the fact that spoken promises are difficult to enforce; and the major mechanical and electrical systems on the car, including some of the major problems you should look out for.

The Buyers Guide also advises buyers to get all promises in writing and keep it for reference after the sale.

When it comes down to it, common sense tactics can pay the best dividends.

The BBB recommends inspecting the car in daylight and good weather and bringing a trusted individual along to help make a thorough appraisal.

And finally, keep in mind the situation and don't expect perfection in a used car. Compromise on minor problems you can fix yourself, but don't overlook serious defects.

The FTC works for the consumer to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop, and avoid them. To file a complaint or to get free information on consumer issues, visit ftc.gov or call toll-free, (877) FTC-HELP.