Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council Launches New Online Consumer Publication

Toronto, June 21, 2004 - The Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC) is pleased to announce the launch of Consumer Line – a free online publication created specifically for Ontario’s consumers.

Consumer Line will be delivered to subscribers monthly and its content will focus on helping consumers understand Ontario’s motor vehicle dealer industry. As it stands, few consumers realize dealers and salespersons must be registered or that OMVIC provides a complaint handling service.

Every issue of Consumer Line will offer consumer protection tips along with industry headlines. Topics will include items such as:

•  How do I check dealer registration?
•  What is the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund and how will it protect my purchase?
• What should I keep in mind when completing my contract?
•  What should I know about safety certificates?

In addition to these segments, Consumer Line will also help consumers learn industry jargon. Every issue will feature an industry term and its definition. For instance, did you know “curbsiders” pose as private individuals, but are actually in the business of selling vehicles that are damaged, stolen, odometer-tampered or have liens against them? And did you know curbsiding is illegal?

Industry-related headlines will focus on OMVIC’s activities and will highlight recent curbsider charges, important legislative changes and any events OMVIC will be attending in the community. Useful links will also be included so that subscribers can easily navigate their way to other helpful sites.

“OMVIC has administered consumer protection programs since 1997,” says Carl Compton, Executive Director, “but now Consumer Line will allow us to maintain an ongoing relationship with consumers and increase the level of education and awareness we provide. It’s essential consumers understand how the industry works -- buying a motor vehicle is one of the most expensive purchases we make.”

Consumers interested in receiving Consumer Line are invited to visit OMVIC’s web site, www.omvic.on.ca, to sign up for free delivery. The newsletter is available in both HTML and text formats.