Sep 4

Friday, September 4, 2020 

How has COVID-19 changed test drives? Is a deposit required?

This week, OMVIC’s Complaints and Enquiries team answer your questions about test drives.

Note: COVID-19 has changed test drives at many dealerships. If going to the dealership for a test drive makes you uncomfortable, research the alternatives.  

Phil: “During COVID-19, how are dealers making test drives safer?” 

OMVIC: Many dealers will now bring the car to your home to test and many others will let you drive the vehicle alone, without a salesperson, to ensure social distancing requirements are met. 

It is also very important to ask a dealer what processes they have in place prior to a test drive including how their vehicles are sanitized. Always observe strict health guidelines—wear a mask, wash hands before and after entering the vehicle and adhere to social distancing requirements—when entering a vehicle.

 To learn more about what you should expect from dealers, check out the Workplace Safety and Prevention Services’ Best Practice guidelines. 

Maggie: “Do I have to put a deposit down to test drive a vehicle?” 

OMVIC: No. A dealer may ask for one but there is no legal requirement for consumers to give it. 

Most dealers will ask for a piece of ID, to ensure you are licensed and to protect themselves from theft, particularly if they are going to let you take the vehicle without a salesperson.

If a dealer insists on a deposit before a test drive, you can always shop elsewhere. 

The Bottom Line: How test drives are conducted may have changed; however, what consumers should be looking for on a test drive hasn’t. OMVIC has compiled a Test Drive Checklist to help you to get the most out of your experience.

We Speak Your Language

If English isn't your first language, don't worry. The Complaints and Inquiries Team uses a multilingual translation service.
You can call 416-226-4500 x3942, request a translator in one of over 150 languages and get help.
Visit OMVIC's Translation Services page to learn more. 

How to Get in Touch

If you’re a consumer with a car-buying or OMVIC-related question, get in touch with OMVIC's Complaints and Inquiries team via email or phone 1-800-943-6002 ext.3942.

About OMVIC

As the regulator of motor vehicle sales in Ontario, OMVIC’s mandate is to maintain a fair and informed marketplace by protecting the rights of consumers, enhancing industry professionalism and ensuring fair, honest and open competition for registered motor vehicle dealers. Visit omvic.ca to learn more about your car-buying rights as well as additional tips for buying a car in Ontario. For 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

OMVIC Copyright ©2020