Whether you’re buying your first or twenty-first car, read up!

Just started college and need your own set of wheels? Embarking on a new job that requires having reliable transportation? Or maybe you’re a car-buying veteran and think you’ve got vehicle acquisition down pat - which by the way, research has shown to be unlikely. When it comes to dropping tens of thousands of dollars on a new vehicle, whether you’re a freshman or a senior, it’s a good idea to do your homework before heading to the dealership.

 Taking delivery of a new car is exciting and emotional, but as emotional as it is, you must do your best to stay grounded and take the necessary steps to make sure your purchase goes smoothly. Here are seven steps to help you.

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 on to learn about the protections available to consumers under the CPA if a dealer commits an unfair business practice.
The CPA applies to most Ontario businesses including car dealerships. Under the CPA there are two types of unfair business practices: false, misleading or deceptive representations; and unconscionable representations. Consumers who face an unfair business practice may be entitled to cancellation of their contract for up to one year from the date of contract signing. 

Because of their low price, rental vehicles may seem like an attractive offer to a car-buyer. While there are a number of perks, there are also some potential drawbacks that consumers need to be aware of. 

Last month, Sharon and Christine (not their real names), went car-shopping. The pair visited dealerships in Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie that had vehicles advertised online. 

But Sharon and Christine were not your average car-buying consumers: they were mystery shoppers and employees of Ontario’s vehicle sales regulator — (Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council). Their mission was simple: to ensure dealers and salespeople were in compliance with the all-in-price advertising provisions of Ontario’s Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA).

As a result of charges laid by OMVIC, Ontario’s Vehicle Sales Regulator, a Windsor auto repair business and its owner, received significant fines for illegal vehicle sales.

Recently, OMVIC received this question: “I was planning to buy a used car, but my financing didn’t get approved, can I get my deposit back?"

Let’s assume that the person who wrote this question, signed a contract and the dealer was to arrange financing.

When it comes to buying a car in Ontario, the majority of consumer/dealer interactions take place without a hitch, but when a transaction hits a pothole, consumers in Ontario can request advice or help from an OMVIC Complaint Handler.

But before filing a formal complaint with OMVIC, the regulator recommends consumers engage in the 2-step process mentioned below.

By law, anyone who trades in vehicles in Ontario must be registered with OMVIC, Ontario’s vehicle sales regulator—that’s every car dealer and salesperson.

We know that not everyone is going to buy a vehicle from an OMVIC-Registered dealer—some may choose to buy from a private seller—but buying from a registered dealer is ‘the safer way’ because of what you're legally entitled to.

Did you know that OMVIC regulates motorcycle sales as well as car, RV and light truck sales?

If you’re considering hugging the curb and embracing clear blue skies this summer, then getting acquainted with your rights as a motorcycle-buyer is a very good start.

Each day, OMVIC staff field calls and emails from car and motorcycle buyers seeking clarity on their rights as a consumer. As a motorcycle-buying consumer, you have certain rights.

Few among us can buy a car with little preparation. For most, purchasing a vehicle is a sizable investment that demands significant research. Before deciding on which vehicle best suits your lifestyle and budget, you should know what your rights are.

The majority of consumers borrow money for a vehicle purchase. Some choose to use a personal line of credit or arrange financing at their bank or credit union, but many have the dealer arrange the financing. This often makes sense—dealers have access to numerous lenders that may provide terms or rates unavailable elsewhere. But this doesn’t mean consumers shouldn’t carefully consider what is being offered and take steps to ensure they are getting the best possible finance rate and terms.

Not all relationships are built to last. You’ve had your car through good times and bad, but your needs have changed. You need more space, better reliability and the latest technology. It’s time to say goodbye to your current ride, and make room for a new(er) one.

There are a number of options for getting rid of your car, but we’ll focus on these three: