Bought a car in the past five months? We want your feedback!
COVID-19 has altered how many of us get from A to B. With fewer people taking public transit, more people are looking to buy cars, but the purchasing process has changed.
In early April, dealerships were closed due to the pandemic. In May they reopened, but with strict public health guidelines, which altered the car-buying experience not just for dealers, but also for consumers.
If you've bought a vehicle in the past five months, OMVIC and consumer watchdog group—the Automobile Protection Association (APA) — wants you to take a short survey about buying a car during the pandemic.
If you complete it, you could win a prize!
New Resources for Teachers at the OMVIC Academy
Ontario's Vehicle Sales Regulator, OMVIC, has made new car-buying resources available to educators in Ontario. The OMVIC Academy videos, student car-buying guide and teacher's manual resources are part of a new initiative designed to create informed and confident car buyers.
Drive Clean Passenger Vehicle Program Comes to an End
The Drive Clean emissions program has ended. We've created a simple graphic to help you understand the changes.To learn more, visit the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Park's webpage.
Buying a Car This Holiday Season? Take This Quiz to Find Out if Your Private Seller is Naughty or Nice!
Thinking about decking the driveway with a newer set of wheels this holiday season? Considering buying that vehicle privately? Well, OMVIC suggests you check this list twice to help you spot the naughty sellers, so you only buy from the nice.
Picking Up a New Car? Don't Forget…
By OMVIC Communications on Thursday, August 30, 2018
Pre-Delivery Inspection: Important Steps to Take
Bought a new car and waiting to take delivery? Make sure the excitement you feel lasts for days and isn't snuffed out by any unexpected disappointments. Keep calm and take your time; ensure all your questions/concerns are answered to YOUR satisfaction. To help with this process, OMVIC recommends making a 'vehicle delivery' checklist:
Dealer Fees are Not Illegal …but they must be included in the advertised price!
Recently a consumer wrote to OMVIC:
We recently purchased a used vehicle from an OMVIC Registered Dealer
We were charged an administrative fee of $199. We questioned this and were given a vague answer; the salesman insinuated this was a normal charge. I thought dealers couldn't add fees."
There can be some confusion when it comes to All-in Price Advertising. So let's clarify.
Consumers need to protect themselves as EV Rebate Program winds down
Electric Vehicle (EV) buyers who are expecting to receive a rebate from Ontario soon-to- be-cancelled Electric and Hydrogen Vehicle Incentive Program (EHVIP)should take steps to protect themselves from possible increased costs when signing a purchase contract. According to the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), in order for an EV buyer to qualify for the incentive (most rebates are between $7,000 -$14,000 depending on the EV purchased):
1. the vehicle purchased must be on MTO's list of eligible vehicles
2. the dealership had to confirm the vehicle as part of its eligible inventory (in stock or ordered) with the MTO by July 16th
3. the customer has to take delivery of the vehicle before the program ends in September.
A Picture may be Worth a Thousand Words, but it Can Also Save You Thousands When Buying a Car
Car-buyers have the right to expect Ontario dealers to include all fees and charges the dealer intends to collect, with the exception of HST and licensing (and safety standards certificate if the vehicle is advertised unfit/as-is) in any advertised price. It's been the law since 2010.
Unfortunately though, research conducted by OMVIC, Ontario's vehicle sales regulator, has uncovered two significant problems: less than half of Ontario car-buyers know they have a right to all-in pricing; and, many are being overcharged because some dealers continue to add fees on top of their advertised prices.
Questions to Ask Before Buying a New Car from a Registered Dealer
The new car you've seen at the dealership makes your heart pound; your pulse race and the thought of driving it makes you a little giddy. It must be love. You know what they say, first comes love, then comes…car ownership. However, before the dealer can pronounce you 'car owner and car', you need to take a step back and ask some serious questions.
Because, let's face it, buying a new car is a lot like getting married: if you don't do proper research and ask the right questions you can end up making an expensive mistake you'll regret for years.
So, think of OMVIC as your marriage coach—here to help you start that discussion that will ensure the relationship between you and new your car is a happy and long lasting one.
Free Car-Buying Seminars Teach Consumers How to Buy a Car in Ontario
Buying a car is one of the most expensive purchases a consumer will make in their lifetime. It is a transaction that requires thought, research and knowledge. It's important that consumers educate themselves BEFORE entering into an agreement to purchase a vehicle.
As Ontario's vehicle sales regulator, OMVIC offers FREE Car-Buying Seminars to consumer and community groups.
In love with a car? Make sure certain conditions apply!
Two friends at a café:
Scott: Why do you look so happy?
Dee: I've met someone perfect—kind, thoughtful and romantic.
Scott: You say that after every date!
Dee: But this one's different! He's seen me wearing my mouth guard and he doesn't care that I can't cook. I have finally found unconditional love!
Ah, the elusive unconditional love; while it may be what so many of us long for, it is not the type of love you should pursue when you buy a vehicle. To put it bluntly: steer clear of falling in unconditional love with a car. In fact, when buying a car, conditions can be your best friend.
A Match Made in Car Heaven?
"My friends say I don't look a kilometre over 85,000." Meanwhile, what the unsuspecting, hopeful single who swiped right doesn't know is that deceitful old Buick's odometer has been rolled back 100,000 km.
"I keep my body in great shape!!" Yeah right, that Venza was a complete write-off with structural damage that cost over $14,000 to get into "great shape".
Both are classic cases of "carfishing", quite similar to what online daters refer to as "catfishing"… simply, false advertising.
All I Want for Christmas is... a New Car
Thinking about decking the driveway with a new set of wheels this holiday season? Or resolving to improve your ride in the New Year? OMVIC would like to gift you with some great holiday car buying tips.
Don't Let the Grinch Steal Your ID (or more)
You know Dasher and Dancer and Prancer and Vixen, Comet and Cupid and Donner and Blitzen. But do you recall…the "458 Italia Speciale?"
Rumours swirling around the North Pole claim Santa Claus is considering trading in his trusty team of reindeer for a 597 horsepower "black prancing stallion". According to the elvish grapevine, the Ferrari's front and rear movable flaps cut drag and its side slip angle control are better able to tackle unpredictable equatorial cross-winds. An elf at S.L.E.D. (Santa's Lead Engineering Department), who wants to remain anonymous, described the current sleigh as having the aerodynamics of a "flat-sided igloo".
Understanding Negative Equity: the Dangers of Being a Monthly Payment Junkie
By OMVIC Communications on Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Visit OMVIC at IMPORTFEST this Saturday, August 26th
Do know the difference between buying a car from a dealership and buying privately? OMVIC staff will be happy to answer your car-buying questions and provide you with information about your car-buying rights at IMPORTFEST!
Considering a Car Loan? Vehicle Sales Regulator Provides Tips to Consumers as Charges Against Dealers Continue
Ontario's vehicle sales regulator is providing educational information and tips to consumers who are financing their next car-purchase. "Traditionally the most common source of complaints received by OMVIC relate to vehicle condition or contract cancellation" explained John Carmichael, OMVIC CEO and Registrar. "However we are noticing an increase in complaints specific to finance agreements; and in the past few years, this has led to a number of dealers facing charges or licence revocation."
Don't Lien on Me!
So what exactly is a lien?
A lien is a legal "encumbrance" registered on a person's property to secure a debt the property owner owes to another person/business (commonly a bank/lender). In the case of a car loan, a bank (or finance company) will register a lien against the vehicle giving them the right to take possession of it should the borrower default on the loan and to sell the vehicle to recoup the outstanding debt.
So it's really important you DON'T buy a vehicle with an outstanding lien!
Buying an "As Is" Car from a Dealer in Ontario
Dealers in Ontario are required to include the following statement on the contract of any vehicle sold "as is":
"The motor vehicle sold under this contract is being sold "as-is" and is not represented as being in roadworthy condition, mechanically sound or maintained at any guaranteed level of quality. The vehicle may not be fit for use as a means of transportation and may require substantial repairs at the purchaser's expense. It may not be possible to register the vehicle to be driven in its current condition."
Buying a Car in Ontario? use this "How-to Roadmap" Before you Buy!
Buying a car can be an emotionally charged experience with long-term financial implications. Smart consumers know a purchase of this importance requires research, knowledge and careful deliberation. OMVIC's "Road to Buying a Car in Ontario" infographic helps consumers ask the right questions during the car-buying process.
How to Identify a Manufacturer Advertisement – 3 Tips
All-in price advertising is the law in Ontario; a law meant to provide transparency to consumers and create a fair and level playing field for car dealers. Through OMVIC's on-going consumer awareness efforts, the public is becoming more informed of the all-in pricing rules when purchasing a car from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer — but there is still some confusion…
About OMVIC's Complaints Process
The vast majority of consumer/dealer transactions go well. In those rare instances when problems arise, OMVIC's Complaints and Inquiries Team provides information and services to help address the situation. These services are provided free of charge to all Ontarians.
RV There Yet?!?
Thinking about buying a camping trailer, motorhome, boat or ATV? It's important to know your rights; and believe it or not, depending on what you buy (or whom you buy from) your rights, like your mileage hauling a 5th wheel camper, may vary.
CONSUMER PROTECTION NOTICE - Sault Ste. Marie Motor Vehicle Dealer Suspended
The Deputy Registrar of OMVIC has ordered the immediate suspension of Personal Touch Auto Limited, located at 747 Great Northern Road, Sault Ste. Marie, following serious consumer complaints and an inspection. As a result, the dealership cannot legally sell, lease, consign or buy vehicles.
Consumers are warned not to buy or lease vehicles from, or sell or consign vehicles to, Personal Touch Auto Limited or Gino Burzese while the dealer's registration is suspended.
ALL-IN PRICE ADVERTISING – IT'S YOUR RIGHT! OMVIC Launches Consumer Awareness Campaign To Protect Car Buyers
A dog relishing a car ride; tongue lapping the air; fur flying in the wind – a sight that exemplifies simple joy; and it's the visuals supporting OMVIC's TV message: Buying a car? The fun is back! Ontario made all-in price advertising the law for Ontario car dealers – no more hidden fees. All-in price advertising – it's your right!
FREE Car-Buying Seminars Available, Book One Today
Whether buying from a private seller or an OMVIC-Registered Dealer, OMVIC provides many informative services to help consumers ask the right questions during the car-buying process to protect themselves and make an informed purchase. OMVIC's FREE Car-Buying Seminar is a service available throughout the province to consumer or community groups, first-time car buyers, new Canadians and students.
Stubborn Ottawa-area Curbsider Fined $40,000
By OMVIC Communications on Tuesday, April 4, 2017
A Stittsville man has been convicted of curbsiding (acting as a motor vehicle dealer without registration) under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA). OMVIC conducted an extensive investigation into the illegal vehicle sales of Soidan (Danny) Ismail (also "Ismal"). The investigation led to 29 MVDA curbsiding charges and an additional 30 charges under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) for making false, misleading and deceptive representations regarding the history and condition of vehicles sold. Ismail was convicted on 19 of the charges and fined $40,000.
What's New With Drive Clean? Implementation Date: April 1, 2017
Effective April 1, 2017, light-duty vehicles, such as most passenger cars, vans and SUVs, no longer require a Drive Clean emissions test when sold or transferred.
Learn more about the latest Drive Clean program changes and what you can do before purchasing a vehicle to ensure it is free of emissions issues.
All-In Price Advertising Is The Law For All Ontario Car Dealers
All-in price advertising has been the law for all Ontario car dealers for more than seven years! And yet, only 33 per cent of Ontario consumers know they are entitled to all-in pricing when buying a car; the other 67 percent are either uninformed or misinformed.
The 2017 Ottawa-Gatineau International Auto Show March 16 to 19
By OMVIC Communications on Monday, March 13, 2017
Live in Eastern Ontario? Thinking about buying or leasing a new car? Stop by the OMVIC booth (Level 2, Room 201) at the 2017 Ottawa-Gatineau International Auto Show and have your vehicle buying questions answered by OMVIC staff. You can even test your Car- Buying IQ!
Buying a Car in Ontario? 5 Tips to Avoid Falling Victim to a Curbsider
By OMVIC Communications on Monday, March 6, 2017
Curbsiders are lying in wait in online marketplaces, ready to pounce on unsuspecting consumers. So if you're purchasing a car in Ontario – Protect Yourself!
To mark Fraud Prevention Month, read OMVIC's blog this week to learn about your car-buying rights and when they apply, and learn how to spot the telltale signs of a curbsider!
Buying a Vehicle? Follow These Tips When Taking Delivery of Your New Car!
By OMVIC Communications on Wednesday, March 1, 2017
Purchased a vehicle from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer? Anxious to take delivery of the vehicle? Don't let excitement take over completely – there are a few crucial steps to take to ensure your purchase goes smoothly right up until you drive off the lot Consider these 11 tips when taking delivery of your vehicle...
Last Chance to See the 2017 Canadian International AutoShow!
By OMVIC Communications on Wednesday, February 22, 2017
Canada's largest automotive event is wrapping up in the next few days! The 2017 Canadian International AutoShow kicked off on February 17 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and is concluding on February 26. That's right – there's only a few days left! Don't miss out on the many exhibits at the AutoShow, including OMVIC's booth (P223 on the 800 level) to test your car-buying IQ! Speak with OMVIC staff and learn about the protections available when buying from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer. Don't miss this great opportunity!
Visit OMVIC at the 2017 Canadian International AutoShow!
The 2017 Canadian International AutoShow kicks off this Friday, February 17 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre! Planning to attend the show? Be sure to stop by OMVIC's booth (P223 on the 800 level) to test your car-buying IQ! The AutoShow runs until Sunday, February 26 so don't miss out!
Repeat Offender Sentenced to 50 Days Behind Bars for Illegal Vehicle Sales
Andre N. Campbell has been sentenced to 50 days in jail for illegal vehicle sales. The Mississauga man was charged by OMVIC, Ontario's vehicle sales regulator, with acting as a dealer without registration (curbsiding) and selling five vehicles between 2012 and 2014. "Each vehicle was a rebuilt write-off," stated Tom Girling, OMVIC's Director of Investigations. "The purchasers, who found the vehicles advertised online, were unaware of the true history of the vehicles."
What Would Forrest Gump's Mama Say About Buying a Car?
Forrest Gump's mama was right – "life is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're gonna get." That wonderful, whimsical and yet profound insight seems to come to mind every February when the ubiquitous heart-shaped boxes of valentine chocolates make an appearance on store shelves. But anyone who has made a blind confection selection without careful examination of the legend that usually accompanies the red faux-suede boxes knows that looks can be deceiving. It goes without saying the square shaped chocolate-covered caramels were fantastic; but some candy makers would sneakily create other flavours in the same square shape – some with a medicinal orange flavour and others with a thick white mystery filling...
Pros and Cons of Leasing a Car in Ontario
Last week's blog post introduced the topic of leasing a new car in Ontario, laid out the different types of leases in the marketplace and defined five leasing terms you should know. As that post stated, a lease is a contract to "rent" a vehicle for a long period of time. Should your situation change due to relocation, job loss or discovering the vehicle no longer meets your needs (e.g. starting a family) it may be difficult and expensive to get out of a lease. But there are also upsides to leasing. Like most things in life, there are pros and cons. Let's examine some of them…search and determine if leasing is right for you, before you sign the contract.
Leasing a New Car in Ontario
By OMVIC Communications on Monday, January 30, 2017
A Key Protection for Ontario Car Buyers: OMVIC's Compensation Fund!
Each year, OMVIC-Registered Dealers sell or lease approximately 1.2 million vehicles. The vast majority of transactions go well. But in those rare instances that something does go wrong, Ontario consumers can turn to the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund for help. In 2016, OMVIC's Compensation Fund marked 30 yearsof providing protection to consumers who suffer a financial loss as a result of a transaction with an OMVIC-Registered Dealer. The Compensation Fund is one of the key protections available to consumers who purchase from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer.
8 Important Tips to Follow When Buying a Car Privately
Buying a car can be a huge financial commitment and no one wants to end up with buyer's remorse due to unexpected repairs or realizing soon after the purchase the vehicle had undisclosed accident damage. So it's vital consumers exercise due diligence and take extra precautions when buying a used vehicle privately including...
Visit OMVIC At The 2017 North American International Motorcycle SuperShow!
By OMVIC Communications on Thursday, January 5, 2017
Are you a motorcycle enthusiast? Or perhaps you're considering a bike purchase in the near future? Do you know what your consumer rights are when buying a motor vehicle, including a motorcycle? Then stop by OMVIC's booth at this weekend's North American International Motorcycle SuperShow and get your questions answered! The show kicks off Friday, January 6 and runs until Sunday, January 8 at The International Centre in Mississauga. OMVIC's booth is number 2914, located in Hall 2!
Online Car-buying Scam Arrives In Time For The Holidays
By OMVIC Communications on Wednesday, December 28, 2016
The Vehicle Sales Authority of British Columbia (VSA) has warned both consumers and dealers of an online car-buying scam that arrived just in time for the holiday season. A fake website was created, using the name and address of a legitimate and licensed car dealership in British Columbia; however, it is a website for a phantom dealership that shows a fake roster of employees and consumer testimonials.
Car-buying Tips for the Holidays
Planning to deck the driveway with a new ride during the holiday season? Thinking about taking advantage of the flurry of Boxing Day promotions? OMVIC would like to gift you with some key holiday car-buying tips...
Test Driving – A Crucial Step for Vehicle Buyers
Whether shopping for a vehicle privately or from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer, consumers should take steps to protect themselves; and one of the key steps is to take a thorough test drive.
In many instances, taking a short drive around the block or a quick spin in the parking lot just won't cut it. To get the most out of a test drive, OMVIC suggests consumers follow these tips...
A Caution to Consumers When Trading-in a Vehicle
By OMVIC Communications on Thursday, December 8, 2016
OMVIC, Ontario's vehicle sales regulator, has recently heard from a small number of consumers who encountered problems when trading-in vehicles to a dealer. These consumers traded-in vehicles that still had money owing on them — loans that were to be paid off by the dealer as part of the financing of the consumers' new vehicles. "Unfortunately the dealers did not pay off the loans immediately," explained Laura Halbert, OMVIC's Director of Compliance. "This left the consumers making payments on their new cars as well as on their trade-ins."
Test your Car-Buying Knowledge - Introducing Ontario's New Car-Buying Quiz!
OMVIC has launched a new Car-Buying Quiz to help consumers test their car-buying smarts.
This fun an interactive tool "drives" consumers down an information highway where they are quizzed on important car-buying topics including: All-in price advertising, the warning signs that help identify curbsiders and the amount of time (or lack of) to cancel a contract.
Car Shopping on Black Friday? Know Your Rights!
Car Shopping on Black Friday? Remember, buying from an Ontario-registered dealer does provide consumer protection, but a signed contract is still FINAL! There is "No Cooling Off Period"
OMVIC's New "How-to Roadmap" Helps Consumers Ask the Right Questions When Buying a Car in Ontario!
Introducing OMVIC's new interactive Road to Buying a Car in Ontario infographic! Whether buying from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer or a private seller, this step-by-step guide will help consumers ask the right questions during the car-buying process. Navigating from start to sold, the 'how to roadmap' identifies potential dangerous potholes and the detours consumers can make to ensure their next car purchase is a safe one!
OMVIC's Free Car-Buying Seminars Teach Consumers How to Buy a Car in Ontario
Buying a car is one of the most expensive purchases a consumer will make in their lifetime. It is a transaction that requires thought, research and knowledge, which is why it is important that consumers educate themselves BEFORE entering into an agreement to purchase.
Should I Trade-in My Car or Sell it Privately?
There are two benefits to trading-in your vehicle at the dealership; saving on taxes and on time. There are tax advantages (you'll only have to pay HST on the difference) and you save time and effort of having to sell it privately.
Tips to Help Conquer Your Car-Buying Fears
As adults, little is as exciting and yet equally fearful as the Halloweens of our childhood…with perhaps one exception – buying a car. In that acquisition many of us steel ourselves with the same heightened sense of "prepare for anything" as a nine year old on Halloween. Our fight-or-flight response is awakened; because this is, for most, a large purchase; it can be scary, and no wants to get stuck with a lemon.
5 Examples of What Car Dealers Must Disclose
One of the key pillars of protection offered to Ontario consumers who purchase from a registered dealer is the mandatory disclosure requirement. Ontario's Motor Vehicle Dealers Act requires OMVIC-Registered Dealers to disclose in writing a vehicle's past use, history and condition. For example, dealers must disclose incident or collision damage repairs exceeding $3,000.
Car-Buying Tips for Students and Parents
Thinking about buying a car for your budding academic star? Or perhaps you're a student looking to purchase a set of wheels to keep you coming home for the holidays? Visit OMVIC at the Maclean's Student Life Expo this weekend, October 15-16 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre and have your car-buying questions answered by OMVIC staff!
Buying a Car in Ontario? Consider a Pre-purchase Vehicle Inspection BEFORE You Buy
Buying a car can be a huge financial commitment and no one wants to end up with buyer's remorse due to unexpected repairs soon after purchase. That is why it's vital consumers exercise their 'due diligence' before purchasing their next used vehicle – and in many cases, that means getting a pre-purchase mechanical inspection.
Buying a Car? Tips for Arranging Auto Financing
Making car-buying decisions based solely on a low monthly payment could be financially hazardous and is becoming a problematic trend amongst many consumers. When buying a car it's important consumers are aware of the potential consequences of financing vehicles over extended terms (e.g. 84-96 months). In some instances, particularly if the consumer has bruised credit and therefore only qualifies for a high interest loan, stretching the repayment term out can result in paying more in interest than the actual purchase price of the vehicle. Consumers should ensure they are getting the finance terms they want and can afford.
Buying a Car? Beware of The Dangers of Becoming a Monthly Payment Junkie
There's a growing trend amongst some consumers that may have unexpected financial consequences 'down the road'. Known as Monthly Payment Junkies, these consumers ignore the potential pitfalls of financing a vehicle over an extended term such as 84-96 months and make their car-purchase decision based solely on a low monthly payment.
3 Tips to follow if a Dealer Tries to Add Charges Above the Advertised Price
By OMVIC Communications on Tuesday, September 13, 2016
By now, you're aware that all-in price advertising is the law for car dealers in Ontario. If a dealer advertises a price for a car (new or used), that price must include ALL fees and charges the dealer intends to collect, with the exception of HST and licensing. However research shows that a small minority of car dealers continue to add hidden fees or extra costs that exceed their advertised prices.
Looking At An Advertisement For A Car? Know Whose Advertisement It Is...
Ontario's advertising regulations are clear: if an OMVIC-Registered Dealer advertises a price for a vehicle, that price MUST be all-inclusive with the exception of HST and licensing. Manufacturer advertisements don't have to follow these rules, so it's important to know whose advertisement it is you're reading/viewing.
CONSUMER PROTECTION NOTICE — Club Autohaus Inc. Not Licensed to Sell Vehicles
Ontario's vehicle sales regulator, OMVIC, advises consumers and dealers that Club Autohaus Inc. located at 14 Stafford Drive, Brampton is no longer registered to buy, sell or lease vehicles.
I Signed a Contract for a Car – Can I Cancel?
Are cooling-off periods (i.e. an opportunity to cancel a contract and get back your money) the law in Ontario or simply urban myths? Test your consumer rights knowledge.
Selling Your Car in Ontario—Consignment Deals, What are They?
Many people want to sell their car but don't want the hassle of posting a private ad or taking strangers for a test drive. It can be time-consuming and frustrating. For some, the answer is consignment: giving the vehicle to a dealer to sell but retaining ownership until the sale takes place. Consignment sales are especially common with unique vehicles such as motorhomes or classic cars.
Visit OMVIC at IMPORTFEST this weekend—Saturday August 6th!
Looking for something to do this weekend? Be sure to stop by the OMVIC booth at IMPORTFEST! Learn more about your car-buying rights and have your questions answered by OMVIC staff!
Car Buying in Ontario? Do You Know Your Rights?
Think you're a pretty savvy car buyer? Understand dealer advertising? Let's check; and find out if your consumer smarts are stuck in the first gear or set on cruise control.
Back to School Car-Buying Tips
Heading off to college or university and looking for a cheap set of wheels? If you're searching in the private automotive jungle remember, consumer protection laws in Ontario don't apply to private vehicle purchases. Should something go wrong with a private car purchase, consumers are basically on their own with little recourse other than the court system.
This Weekend July 15-17 - Visit OMVIC's Booth at the 2016 Honda Indy!
By OMVIC Communications on Tuesday, July 12, 2016
Be sure to stop by the OMVIC booth at the Toronto Honda Indy this weekend, July 15th to 17th. Have your questions answered by OMVIC staff and learn about your rights when you purchase a vehicle from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer, in Ontario.
Buying a Used Car in Ontario? 5 Tips to Avoid Online Car-Buying Scams
If you're looking to purchase a vehicle in Ontario, new or used, chances are you've checked out some of the online auto marketplaces such as Kijiji, AutoTRADER, Craigslist or others. While there are many legitimate vehicles available through these sites, there are also a number of sophisticated online scams you should watch out for.
Leasing a Car in Ontario: What is a Lease?
In Ontario, there is no cooling-off period when purchasing a vehicle from an OMVIC-Registered dealer – all sales are final. Before you sign the contract, it is important to do your research and determine if leasing is right for you.
Buying an "As Is" Car in Ontario
Although changes to the safety inspection standards have been implemented, "as is" disclosure obligations remain unaltered. As such, "as is" disclosures must still be made on both contracts and advertisements. In addition, dealers are still responsible to make all mandatory disclosures about the history and condition of the vehicle, in writing, even if the vehicle is being sold "as is."
The Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund – It's Your Right If Something Goes Wrong
#DYK Since its creation on July 1, 1986, the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund has paid out over 5 million in compensation to consumers. As the oldest and largest fund of its kind in Canada, the Compensation Fund offers the best protection for vehicle buyers in Ontario. Happy 30th Birthday to the Compensation Fund!
Who Protects Car Buyers?
OMVIC (Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council) is Ontario's vehicle sales regulator. With a mandate to protect consumers OMVIC enforces the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act and other consumer protection statutes on behalf of the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services.
Visit OMVIC at the Georgian College Auto Show – June 3–5
Thinking about buying a car? Want to see the newest models in a unique no-selling, no-pressure environment? Then plan a trip to Barrie this weekend!
Georgian College Auto Show – June 3–5
This weekend, June 3–5, North America's largest outdoor auto show is being held in Ontario. The Georgian College Auto Show is 100% student run and it's taking place at the college's Barrie campus.
What Consumers Should Know About Car Dealer Advertising
All-in price advertising is the law; a law meant to provide transparency to consumers and to create a fair and level playing field for dealers. Through past bulletins we've learned that if a dealer advertises a price for a vehicle (new or used), that price MUST include all fees and charges the dealer intends to collect.
But what are the other 'advertising' rules consumers should be aware of to stay protected?
Information and Education – Keys to a Stress-free Car Purchase
Considering the information available, today's informed consumers should have more confidence (and less anxiety) than ever before when buying a car. But that's the rub; consumers have to do their part too. They need to research; ask questions; know when they're protected (and when they're not); and accept some of the responsibility for protecting themselves. An educated consumer is a protected consumer.
How to Identify a Manufacturer Advertisement—3 Tips
Buying a Car in Ontario? Review Advertisements BEFORE You Buy!
All-in pricing is the law! If an OMVIC-Registered Dealer advertises a price for a vehicle (new or used), the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA) requires that the price include ALL fees and charges the dealer intends to collect.
Safety Recalls: What You Need to Know
With millions of vehicles recalled, many for serious safety issues, it's vitally important owners take steps to ensure they're aware if a vehicle they own, or are thinking of purchasing, is the subject of a recall and to have recalled vehicles repaired/serviced.
Purchasing a Boat, Trailer or RV? Know When You're Protected!
Summer is just around the corner and you may be thinking about buying some new "toys"! Well, if it's a motorhome (a driveable RV) purchased from a registered dealer, you're protected by OMVIC and the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA). In the rare instance you encounter a problem with the dealership OMVIC may be able to assist; it also means you are protected by the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund!
750 Days Behind Bars for Illegal Vehicle Sales
Remember Mehran Amini, the curbsider who was sentenced to 450 days in prison in January 2016 for selling vehicles with rolled-back odometers? He was sentenced to an additional 300 days in prison after being found guilty on his last set of charges. That's 750 days in total – this is the longest ever jail sentence handed out for illegal car sales in Ontario! Read more…
8 Tips For Buying A Car From A Registered Dealer
Did you know that when you buy a car from an Ontario-registered dealer, there is no "cooling off" period? Once you sign a contract, sales are FINAL. So, before you sign the dotted line, it's important to be certain that you have explored all options and are confident in your purchase—a car is a big Investment!
Buying a Car? Do You Know Your Rights?
Did you know that all-in price advertising is the law? If you answered NO , you probably need to sharpen your car-buying knowledge before signing any contracts or paying any deposits. An educated consumer is a protected consumer - OMVIC offers FREE car buying seminars. Read more to learn about all-in price advertising and how you can book a FREE car buying seminar today!
Visit OMVIC's Booth At The 2016 Ottawa-Gatineau International Auto Show!
The 2016 Ottawa-Gatineau International Auto Show March 17th to 20th
Looking for something to do in the Ottawa-Gatineau area this March Break? Be sure to stop by the OMVIC booth (Level 2, Room 202) at the 2016 Ottawa-Gatineau International Auto Show. Have your questions answered by OMVIC staff and test your car buying IQ!
Top 11 Vehicle Delivery Tips
Bought a new car? Can't wait to take delivery? When the big time comes, don't let excitement take over completely – there are still important steps to take to ensure your purchase goes smoothly.
Buying A Car In Ontario? Don't Fall Victim To An Unfair Business Practice
Did you know that protections granted to consumers under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) cannot be nullified in a contract? Ontario's CPA is THE LAW. Read more to learn about the protections available to consumers under the CPA if a dealer commits an unfair business practice.
Visit OMVIC's Booth #P231 at the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow!
By OMVIC Communications on Thursday, February 11, 2016
The #CIAS2016 February 12th to 21st
Be sure to stop by the OMVIC booth P231, level 800 at the 2016 Canadian International AutoShow. Have your questions answered by OMVIC staff and maybe have some car buying myths busted!
How To "Break Up" With Your Old Ride - 3 Ways To Sell Your Car In Ontario
Like cars, not all relationships are built to last. Our love wanes. We grow bored. New models tempt us with exciting features, better handling, firmer suspensions; it's irresistible. Yes, there's nothing quite like the stimulating, even obsessive, love affair…with a new car. But how do you "break up" with your old ride? There's generally three ways to go about it.
"No Pets Allowed" — Consumers and retailers alike are accustomed to this "rule" when entering a retail place of business.
But, did you know that in Ontario all organizations that provide goods and services to the public are legally required to allow people with disabilities to be accompanied by a "service animal"? Read more to learn why.
Ontario Curbsider Gets 450 Days in Jail
Mehran Amini was sentenced to 450 days incarceration after being found guilty on two counts of curbsiding (acting as a dealer without registration) contrary to the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act and one count of engaging in an unfair business practice (related to odometer tampering) in contravention of the Consumer Protection Act. "This is the longest sentence handed out in Ontario for illegal vehicle sales," explained Michael Rothe, Director of Legal Services for OMVIC, Ontario's vehicle sales regulator.
OMVIC's Compensation Fund—Celebrating 30 Years of Protecting Ontario Consumers
One of the key protections available to consumers who purchase from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer is having access to the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund (The Fund). Established in 1986, the Compensation Fund is celebrating 30 years of protecting Ontario consumers.
OMVIC Offers Translation Services
Did you know that OMVIC offers translation services to both consumers and dealers? Non-English speakers can clearly communicate any questions or concerns they may have to OMVIC staff.
Available in more than 150 languages, OMVIC's translation service is provided at no cost to the caller!