Responding to numerous offers of extended vehicle warranties targeting consumers around the state-including in the Highline area-the Washington Attorney General's Office is advising caution.

"While the official-looking postcard in your mailbox warns that your car's warranty is about to expire and urges you to call a toll-free number to ensure you're covered ... think twice before you dial," the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division said in a recent alert.

"These mailers are advertisements aimed at pressuring you into buying an expensive service contract."

The mailers are designed to look like official notices from the vehicle manufacturer with phrases like "FINAL WARRANTY NOTICE." Many postcards are personalized with the car owner's name and a "customer ID" number.

"If you receive a postcard warning you to renew your vehicle warranty, don't take the information on face value," said Assistant Attorney General Mary Lobdell.

"Your car or truck's initial warranty may be far from expiring or may have expired long ago. These notices usually aren't from your manufacturer or dealer; they're ads from businesses that want to sell you an optional, pricey plan to cover future repairs."

Owners who do want to purchase an extended warranty -accurately known as a service contract - are advised to always shop around and know exactly what it is they are buying.

A similar or better contract may be available at the owner's vehicle manufacturer or another business.

And Washington law requires that all service agreements sold after Sept. 30, 2006, state all parts covered by the contract and any conditions required to maintain coverage.

The contract can't deny a claim based on the consumer's failure to properly maintain the vehicle - excluding the failed part.

The law also allows buyers to return the service agreement for a full refund within 30 days of purchase if they haven't made a claim. 2. Is it worth the price?