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.

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.

Be sure to stop by the OMVIC booth at the Toronto Honda Indy this weekend, July 15^th to 17^th. Have your questions answered by OMVIC staff and learn about your rights when you purchase a vehicle from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer, in Ontario.

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.

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.”

#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 30^th Birthday to the Compensation Fund!

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.

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.

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?