Jul 12

Friday, July 12, 2019 

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.

Buying Privately? Beware of the Curbsider

You’re only protected when you buy from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer. If you buy privately and encounter problems, OMVIC cannot assist. So, take extra care if you choose to buy a motorcycle privately, educate yourself and don’t become a curbsider’s victim.

If you opt for buying a motorcycle privately, you need to learn how to recognize a curbsider —unlicensed, illegal dealers.  Here are eight warning signs to watch out for:

1.The seller has multiple vehicles for sale.

2.The vehicle is priced below market value.

3.The vehicle is not registered in the seller’s name.

4.The private seller appears to operate from a business.

5.There’s a yellow service license plate (or a white/red dealer plate) on the motorcycle.

6. The seller discourages a mechanical inspection.

7.The seller won’t provide a receipt or proof of purchase/contract.

8.The seller doesn’t provide a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) or discourages the purchase of a history report. When you’re buying a used motorcycle, you’re owed an accurate and true history of the vehicle you’re purchasing including the number of ownerships, accident. You can get this report from Carfax.ca.

Click here for more tips on buying privately.

If you’re purchasing the two-wheeler from a dealer...

Take a picture: If you stumble across your dream machine in a dealer advertisement; take a screen shot or a picture (one that shows the make, model, price listed and date posted) and bring it with you to the dealership. Why? Because according to the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA), the price advertised is the price you should pay (plus HST and licensing). Nothing more. If a motorcycle dealer does try to add fees on top of the price being advertised, walk away and give OMVIC a call.

Disclosures: Dealers are required to disclose (in writing) information regarding the history and condition of the vehicle(s) they’re selling. For a list of required disclosures, click here.

Get it in Writing: Buying from a dealer? When deciding on the motorcycle of your choice, it’s important to get all conditions and promises in writing on the contract (e.g., xxx to be repaired, subject to partner’s approval) before you sign. Buying from a dealer provides consumer protection but a signed contract is final.

Buying from a registered dealer provides consumer protection. For more tips on buying from a dealership, click here.

In a nutshell

Motorcycle sales is a regulated business in Ontario and if you’re an enthusiast, being armed with information about your rights as a consumer can make the vehicle-buying journey seamless and hassle-free. Check out some additional resources here.

About OMVIC

An educated and informed consumer is a protected consumer. Visit omvic.ca to learn more about your car-buying rights as well as additional tips for buying a car in Ontario.

For more motorcycle/car buying tips, check out the OMVIC Academy. You can view other resources such as multilingual videos and download the OMVIC Car-buying Guide.

Connect with OMVIC on social media!

    Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council

@omvic_consumers

   @omvic_official


   Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council


www.omvic.ca


  www.ontario.ca/page/consumer-protection-ontario

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