March is Fraud Prevention Month, as such OMVIC is reminding consumers to beware of curbsiders; illegal unlicensed dealers who often pose as private sellers. Some operate from small automotive businesses (repair shops, rental companies, etc.). Others spend their time behind a computer screen, lying in wait in online marketplaces, ready to pounce on unsuspecting consumers. In fact, 25% of online private vehicle sale ads are 'actually' placed by curbsiders.

Do know the difference between buying a car from a dealership and buying privately? OMVIC staff will be happy to answer your car-buying questions and provide you with information about your car-buying rights at IMPORTFEST! 

Dealers in Ontario are required to include the following statement on the contract of any vehicle sold “as is”:

“The motor vehicle sold under this contract is being sold “as-is” and is not represented as being in roadworthy condition, mechanically sound or maintained at any guaranteed level of quality. The vehicle may not be fit for use as a means of transportation and may require substantial repairs at the purchaser’s expense. It may not be possible to register the vehicle to be driven in its current condition.”

Buying a car can be an emotionally charged experience with long-term financial implications. Smart consumers know a purchase of this importance requires research, knowledge and careful deliberation. OMVIC’s “Road to Buying a Car in Ontario” infographic helps consumers ask the right questions during the car-buying process. 

All-in price advertising is the law in Ontario; a law meant to provide transparency to consumers and create a fair and level playing field for car dealers. Through OMVIC’s on-going consumer awareness efforts, the public is becoming more informed of the all-in pricing rules when purchasing a car from an OMVIC-Registered Dealer — but there is still some confusion…

The vast majority of consumer/dealer transactions go well. In those rare instances when problems arise, OMVIC’s Complaints and Inquiries Team provides information and services to help address the situation. These services are provided free of charge to all Ontarians.

Thinking about buying a camping trailer, motorhome, boat or ATV? It’s important to know your rights; and believe it or not, depending on what you buy (or whom you buy from) your rights, like your mileage hauling a 5^th wheel camper, may vary.

The Deputy Registrar of OMVIC has ordered the immediate suspension of Personal Touch Auto Limited, located at 747 Great Northern Road, Sault Ste. Marie, following serious consumer complaints and an inspection. As a result, the dealership cannot legally sell, lease, consign or buy vehicles.

Consumers are warned not to buy or lease vehicles from, or sell or consign vehicles to, Personal Touch Auto Limited or Gino Burzese while the dealer’s registration is suspended.

A dog relishing a car ride; tongue lapping the air; fur flying in the wind – a sight that exemplifies simple joy; and it’s the visuals supporting OMVIC’s TV message: Buying a car? The fun is back! Ontario made all-in price advertising the law for Ontario car dealers – no more hidden fees. All-in price advertising – it’s your right! 

Whether buying from a private seller or an OMVIC-Registered Dealer, OMVIC provides many informative services to help consumers ask the right questions during the car-buying process to protect themselves and make an informed purchase. OMVIC’s FREE Car-Buying Seminar is a service available throughout the province to consumer or community groups, first-time car buyers, new Canadians and students. 

A Stittsville man has been convicted of curbsiding (acting as a motor vehicle dealer without registration) under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act (MVDA). OMVIC conducted an extensive investigation into the illegal vehicle sales of Soidan (Danny) Ismail (also “Ismal”). The investigation led to 29 MVDA curbsiding charges and an additional 30 charges under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) for making false, misleading and deceptive representations regarding the history and condition of vehicles sold. Ismail was convicted on 19 of the charges and fined $40,000.