October 2020
OMVIC is committed to its staff and its stakeholders’ health and safety. At this time, OMVIC’s head office is closed to the public. OMVIC is operating from remote sites and continues to work with stakeholders during the COVID-19 crisis. While service levels may be impacted, OMVIC remains committed to maintaining a fair and informed marketplace by protecting the rights of consumers and ensuring fair, honest and open competition for registered motor vehicle dealers during these challenging times.
If you have a consumer inquiry, please email OMVIC at consumers@omvic.on.ca
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Understanding Contracts: Vehicle Description
Vehicle contracts can be confusing, so it is important to know the terms. Whether you’re leasing or buying a used or new car, it’s best to stay informed. To help you feel more confident, we have explained the terms you will find in each contract section starting with Vehicle Description.
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Understanding Contracts: Basic Vehicle and Options
In our next section we review Basic Vehicle and Options. This is where you find Optional Extras: upgrades you can request like leather upholstery, heated seats, or audio systems. When you review the contract, ensure all the Optional Extras you asked for are listed.
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Understanding Contracts: Purchase Price and Payment
In the Purchase Price and Payment section, you can expect to find itemized fees like freight and air conditioning (if you are purchasing a new vehicle), administration (if the dealer charges one) and the OMVIC fee. This is also where you should see your old vehicle's value if you are trading it in.
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Understanding Contracts: Trade-In Description and Acceptance of Terms
In our final installment of the Understanding Contract series, we’ll review the Trade-In Description. It includes your old vehicle’s information if you’re trading it in. It also includes Acceptance of Terms - where you sign if you are absolutely certain you want to buy the vehicle!
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OMVIC administers and enforces the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA) on behalf of the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. OMVIC maintains a fair and informed vehicle sales marketplace by regulating dealers and salespersons, regularly inspecting Ontario's 8,000 dealerships and 30,000 salespeople, maintaining a complaint line for consumers and conducting investigations and prosecutions of industry misconduct and illegal sales (curbsiding). OMVIC is also responsible for administering the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund on behalf of its Board of Trustees.
Consumer Line is OMVIC’s consumer guide to Ontario’s motor vehicle dealer industry. It is published throughout the year, delivered free via e-mail and provides consumers with useful tips, industry news and important, up-to-date information.
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