December 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
Buying privately: what you need to know
We discuss the risks involved when buying privately; questions you should ask the private seller and how to best protect yourself from curbsiders—illegal, unlicensed dealers posing as private sellers.
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Buying from a registered dealer: what you need to know
We explain the protections you are entitled to when you buy from an OMVIC-registered dealer; how to check if a dealer is registered with OMVIC, and what you should do to ensure a positive car-buying experience.
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Infographic: top tips for buying privately
Need a quick reference guide? We created an infographic of top tips to remember if you decide to buy from a private seller.
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Infographic: protections you get buying from a registered dealer
Need a refresher? Check out our other infographic to help you remember your rights if you decide to buy from an OMVIC-registered dealer.
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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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