If checking out all those cars, trucks and SUVs at the Ottawa Gatineau International Auto Show has you thinking about buying or leasing, make sure you also stop by OMVIC’s booth (Level 2) and bring your car-buying questions!

And, if meeting the friendly OMVIC team isn’t enough of an incentive, we will also be handing out branded keychains, to remind you that OMVIC is here to help with your car-buying experience. Not only is this keychain attractive and stylish, it’s also multi-purpose, serving as a handy tire tread depth gauge. Don’t miss out on your chance to get one! The show runs from March 22 to March 25, at the Shaw Centre.

So, How Well Do You Know Your Car-Buying Rights?

If a dealer’s ad includes a price for a car…

1. there is likely to be additional fees or charges that aren’t included in the advertised price
2. the advertised price must be ‘all-in’ and the dealer can only add HST and licensing (and the cost of additional products or services you’ve asked for)
3. there are no rules around dealer advertising; it’s buyer beware!

The correct answer is “b”—the advertised price must be all-in and the dealer can only add HST and licensing. All-in pricing is the law in Ontario! If an OMVIC-Registered Dealer advertises a price for a vehicle (new or used), the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA) requires the price to include ALL fees and charges the dealer intends to collect.

What if the price isn’t all-in?

If a dealer tries to charge fees above the advertised price, walk away, shop elsewhere and report the dealer to OMVIC. Note: Because OMVIC does NOT regulate vehicle manufacturers their ads do not have to comply with the all-in pricing law. That said, some manufacturers voluntarily comply and commendably provide transparency to consumers.

To continue testing your car-buying IQ, click here.