May 01, 2008

Springtime is prime car-buying season, especially for thousands of Ontarians on the hunt for a great deal on a used car, van or truck.  As with most other consumer purchases, however, it is always best for buyers to beware, and be aware.

Consumers need to be especially careful of dealing with so-called “curbsiders” in the marketplace. Curbsiders pose as private sellers but are really in the business of selling stolen, damaged, or odometer-tampered vehicles. 

Ontarians are encouraged to understand the history of any car by obtaining a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) from the Ministry of Transportation, or from the seller themselves.   Accident history searches may also be purchased through www.carproof.ca or www.carfax.com.

Used car buyers should always ask for proof of ownership from the seller, have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic they trust, and purchase the car by issuing a cheque to the current owner listed on the UVIP.

QUOTES

“We want all Ontarians to shop smart this spring when making a used vehicle purchase.  Recognizing the potential pitfalls and knowing what to do before buying is the best way to protect yourself in this market,” said Ted McMeekin, Minister of Government and Consumer Services.

QUICK FACTS

• The Canadian Red Book contains guidelines for determining the value of used vehicles, and is available in most public libraries or online at www.canadianredbook.com
• The Ontario Safety Standards Certificate is not a warranty on a used vehicle; only a minimum set of safety standards approved on the day the vehicle was examined.

LEARN MORE

Learn more about buying and selling used vehicles: www.omvic.on.ca

Read more about your consumer rights and responsibilities: www.ontario.ca/consumerprotection

Backgrounder: The 2008 Smart Consumer Calendar

Greg Dennis,
Minister’s Office,
416-327-3072

Ciaran Ganley,
Communications Branch,
416-325-8659