When shopping for a car privately or from a registered dealer, consumers must take steps to protect themselves; and one of the key steps is taking a thorough test drive.

In many cases, “tire kicking” just won’t cut it—to get the most out of a test drive OMVIC suggests consumers follow these tips:

Taking a thorough test drive is a vital part of the car buying process, especially when buying from a private seller. Remember buying a car privately comes with risk. Private purchasers are not protected by OMVIC, the provincial vehicle sales regulator, nor are they protected by Ontario’s consumer protection law. Protections only apply when consumers buy from a registered dealer. So, when buying privately consumers have to learn to protect themselves; and one of the key steps is taking a comprehensive test drive. For test driving and car buying tips, visit omvic.ca