OMVIC, AMVIC & Consumer Protection: Know Your Rights
One of the most important things first-time car buyers don't know is that you have legal protections when buying a vehicle in Canada. Provincial regulators oversee car dealers, and you have rights that protect you from fraud, misrepresentation, and unfair practices.
Understanding these protections can save you from costly mistakes and give you confidence during the buying process.
What Are OMVIC and AMVIC?
OMVIC (Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council)
Who they regulate: All registered motor vehicle dealers in Ontario
What they do:
- License and regulate car dealers and salespeople
- Enforce the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act
- Investigate consumer complaints
- Prosecute dealers who break the law
- Provide consumer education
Contact:
- Website: omvic.on.ca
- Phone: 1-800-943-6002
- Complaint portal available online
ON
Every car dealer in Ontario MUST be registered with OMVIC. You can verify a dealer's registration on the OMVIC website. Never buy from an unregistered dealer - you'll have zero consumer protection.
AMVIC (Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council)
Who they regulate: All licensed motor vehicle businesses in Alberta
What they do:
- License dealers, salespeople, and rebuilders
- Enforce consumer protection standards
- Investigate complaints and disputes
- Maintain vehicle inspection standards
- Educational programs for consumers
Contact:
- Website: amvic.org
- Phone: 1-877-979-8100
- Online complaint submission
AB
AMVIC requires all dealers to provide a Provincial Inspection Certificate (PIC) for vehicles under 12 years old. This inspection covers safety items and must be completed within 30 days of sale.
Provincial Regulatory Bodies Across Canada
While Ontario and Alberta have dedicated motor vehicle councils, other provinces have their own consumer protection systems:
BC
British Columbia: Vehicle Sales Authority (VSA) regulates dealers. All dealers must be registered, and vehicles require safety inspections before sale. Contact: vehiclesalesauthority.com
QC
Quebec: Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) oversees dealers. Quebec has some of Canada's strongest consumer protection laws, including mandatory warranties on used vehicles.
SK, MB
Saskatchewan & Manitoba: Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority regulates dealers. Both provinces have public auto insurance (SGI, MPI) that also oversees vehicle standards.
NS, NB, PE, NL
Atlantic Provinces: Service Nova Scotia, Consumer Protection Branch (NB), Office of the Attorney General (PE), and Service NL regulate dealers respectively. Requirements vary by province.
Your Key Consumer Rights
Regardless of province, you have fundamental rights when buying a vehicle:
1. Right to Accurate Information
Dealers MUST disclose:
- True mileage (odometer reading)
- Accident history and damage
- Previous use (rental, lease, taxi, police, demo)
- Structural damage or frame repairs
- Flood or fire damage
- Status (salvage, rebuilt, stolen recovery)
- Lien status (whether money is owed on the vehicle)
Watch Out
If a dealer knowingly hides damage, prior use, or odometer rollback, that's fraud. You can seek rescission (cancel the sale) and damages. Document everything and report to your provincial regulator immediately.
2. Right to Written Contract
All agreements must be in writing and include:
- Vehicle identification (VIN, year, make, model)
- Purchase price and all fees
- Trade-in value (if applicable)
- Financing terms (rate, term, monthly payment)
- Warranty information
- Delivery date
- Both parties' signatures
Quick Tip
Never sign a blank contract or a contract with blank spaces. Unscrupulous dealers can fill in numbers after you leave. Every field should be completed or marked "N/A" before you sign.
3. Right to Cancel (Cooling-Off Period)
Varies by province:
ON
Ontario: NO cooling-off period for vehicle sales. Once you sign, the sale is binding. Think carefully before signing.
QC
Quebec: 2-day cooling-off period if you signed at the dealership. No cooling-off period if you signed at home or another location.
BC
British Columbia: NO cooling-off period. Sales are final once you sign.
AB, SK, MB
Prairies: Generally NO cooling-off period, but you can cancel if dealer violated regulations or misrepresented the vehicle.
Watch Out
Most provinces do NOT have cooling-off periods for vehicle purchases. Once you sign, you own it. Take your time, ask questions, and don't let dealers pressure you into signing before you're ready.
4. Right to Safety Standards
All provinces require vehicles to meet minimum safety standards:
New vehicles: Must comply with federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (MVSS)
Used vehicles: Must pass provincial safety inspections before sale (requirements vary)
Common safety inspection items:
- Brakes and brake lines
- Steering and suspension
- Lights and signals
- Tires and wheels
- Windshield and wipers
- Seatbelts
- Emissions (where applicable)
ON
Ontario requires a Safety Standards Certificate for all used vehicle sales. Valid for 36 days, must be from a licensed mechanic, and must be provided at time of sale.
AB
Alberta's Provincial Inspection Certificate (PIC) is required for vehicles under 12 years old. Must be completed by licensed facility within 30 days of sale.
5. Right to Warranty Protection (Used Vehicles)
QC
Quebec has mandatory dealer warranties:
- Vehicles under 2 years or 40,000 km: 6-month/10,000 km warranty
- Vehicles 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km: 3-month/5,000 km warranty
- Vehicles 3-5 years or 60,000-80,000 km: 1-month/1,700 km warranty
- Covers major mechanical components (engine, transmission, drivetrain)
ON, BC, AB
Most provinces do NOT mandate dealer warranties on used vehicles. Sales are often "as-is" with no warranty. Always ask if a warranty is included, and get it in writing.
Quick Tip
"As-is" sales are legal in most provinces, but the dealer still cannot misrepresent the vehicle's condition. If they claimed "perfect condition" but the transmission fails immediately, you may have recourse even in an "as-is" sale.
Understanding the Bill of Sale
The Bill of Sale is your most important document. Here's what it must include:
Essential Information
Buyer and seller details:
- Full legal names
- Addresses
- Phone numbers
- Signatures
Vehicle information:
- Year, make, model, trim
- VIN (17-digit Vehicle Identification Number)
- Odometer reading at sale
- License plate number
- Color
Financial details:
- Purchase price
- Down payment / deposit
- Trade-in value and details
- Financing amount
- Total taxes
- All fees itemized
- Total amount paid
Condition and warranties:
- "As-is" or warranty coverage
- Any promises about repairs or service
- Disclosure of known issues
Red Flags on Bills of Sale
Watch out for:
- Missing VIN or incorrect VIN
- Odometer reading listed as "exempt" or "unknown" without explanation
- Vague language about condition
- Handwritten changes without initials
- Unclear or missing fee descriptions
- Pressure to sign quickly without reading
Watch Out
If the dealer won't give you time to read the Bill of Sale carefully, that's a major red flag. Take your time, ask about anything unclear, and don't sign until you're comfortable.
Safety Certifications Explained
Ontario Safety Standards Certificate
Who can issue: Licensed mechanic at approved facility
What's inspected:
- Structural integrity (frame, body)
- Steering and suspension systems
- Braking systems
- Tires (minimum 1.5mm tread depth)
- Lights and electrical systems
- Windshield and glass
- Mirrors and wipers
- Exhaust system
- Fuel system
- Seatbelts and restraints
Validity: 36 days from inspection
Cost: $80-150 typically
Your rights:
- Dealer must provide it at time of sale
- You can request a copy before purchase to see what repairs were needed
- If items fail after sale that should have been caught in inspection, the mechanic/shop may be liable
Alberta Provincial Inspection Certificate (PIC)
Required for: Vehicles under 12 years old
Who can issue: Licensed inspection facility
What's inspected: Similar to Ontario, plus:
- Suspension travel and alignment
- Parking brake effectiveness
- Headlight aim
- Horn function
Validity: 30 days from sale (not from inspection)
Cost: $100-180 typically
Your rights:
- Dealer must complete within 30 days of sale
- You can attend the inspection if you request
- Failed items must be repaired before vehicle can be registered
British Columbia Vehicle Inspection
Required for: Private sales and some dealer sales
Who can issue: Designated inspection facility
Validity: Purchase and registration must occur within 30 days
Cost: $60-120 typically
BC
BC inspections are required for all private sales and vehicles imported from out-of-province. Some dealer sales are exempt if the vehicle was previously inspected within a certain timeframe.
Lemon Law and Recourse
Canada doesn't have a federal "lemon law" like the United States, but you do have protections:
New Vehicles
Manufacturer warranty: Typically 3-5 years / 60,000-100,000 km
If it's a "lemon" (chronic defects):
- Document all repair attempts
- Contact manufacturer customer service
- Escalate through regional manager
- File complaint with provincial consumer protection
- Consider mediation (Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan - CAMVAP)
- Legal action as last resort
CAMVAP (Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan):
- Free arbitration service for manufacturer defects
- Covers most major manufacturers
- Can order manufacturer to buy back vehicle or pay for repairs
- Website: camvap.ca
Quick Tip
Keep detailed records of ALL repairs, service visits, and communications with the dealer/manufacturer. Documentation is critical if you pursue arbitration or legal action.
Used Vehicles
Options if you discover problems:
- Warranty coverage: If sold with warranty, file a claim immediately
- Dealer misrepresentation: If dealer lied about condition, file complaint with regulator
- Safety issues: If safety certification was fraudulent, report to provincial authority
- Small claims court: For disputes under $15,000-35,000 (varies by province)
Evidence you'll need:
- Bill of sale and contract
- Safety certificate
- Pre-purchase inspection (if you got one)
- Repair estimates showing the problem
- Communications with dealer
Common Scams and How to Avoid Them
1. Odometer Fraud (Rolling Back Mileage)
How it works: Dealer or seller rolls back the odometer to make the vehicle appear less used
How to detect:
- Check vehicle history report (CarFax, CarProof)
- Look for wear inconsistent with mileage (worn pedals, steering wheel, seats on "low mileage" car)
- Request service records showing previous mileage
- Check inspection stickers or oil change stickers for mileage records
Your protection: Odometer fraud is a criminal offense. Report to provincial regulator and police.
2. Curbsiding (Unlicensed Dealers)
How it works: Person poses as private seller but is actually running an unlicensed dealership
Red flags:
- Seller has multiple vehicles for sale
- Meets you in parking lots, not at home
- Vague about vehicle history
- Pressure tactics
- Won't provide ID or address
Why it's dangerous: No consumer protection, no recourse, often selling problem vehicles
How to avoid:
- Verify seller's name matches vehicle registration
- Meet at their home address
- Check if name/phone appears on multiple classified ads
- Report suspected curbsiders to provincial regulator
Watch Out
Curbsiders sell vehicles without licenses to avoid regulations and taxes. These are often vehicles with hidden damage, salvage titles, or mechanical issues. Always verify you're dealing with a licensed dealer or genuine private seller.
3. Salvage or Rebuilt Vehicles Sold as Clean
How it works: Vehicle was declared a total loss by insurance, rebuilt, but dealer doesn't disclose this
How to detect:
- Always buy a vehicle history report (CarFax, CarProof)
- Check for "Rebuilt" or "Salvage" brand on title
- Look for mismatched panels, paint overspray, new parts on older vehicle
Your rights: Dealers MUST disclose salvage/rebuilt status. Failure to disclose is fraud.
ON, AB, BC
Vehicles with salvage history must be clearly branded on the title and disclosed to buyers. The vehicle must also pass additional safety inspections before being registered for road use.
4. VIN Cloning
How it works: Stolen vehicle is given the VIN from a similar legitimate vehicle
How to detect:
- VIN on dashboard matches VIN on door jamb, engine, and title
- VIN isn't scratched, etched, or tampered with
- Vehicle history matches vehicle age and condition
- Have police run the VIN before purchase
Protection: This is serious fraud. Contact police immediately if suspected.
5. Hidden Liens (Money Owed on Vehicle)
How it works: Previous owner owes money on the vehicle, but sells it without paying off the loan
The danger: The lender can repossess the vehicle from you even though you paid for it
How to protect yourself:
- Run a lien search through provincial registry ($20-50)
- Buy vehicle history report (shows active liens)
- Use escrow or dealer for payment (they verify clear title)
- Never pay cash without verifying no liens exist
Quick Tip
In Ontario, use Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP). In Alberta, use Vehicle Registration Details. These show lien status. Don't skip this step - it's cheap insurance against losing both your money and the vehicle.
Filing a Complaint: Step-by-Step
If you've been wronged by a dealer, here's how to file a complaint:
Step 1: Try to Resolve with Dealer
Start with communication:
- Contact dealer in writing (email or letter)
- Clearly state the problem and what you want (refund, repair, compensation)
- Give them reasonable time to respond (7-14 days)
- Document all communications
Many disputes resolve at this stage. Dealers prefer to fix problems rather than deal with regulatory complaints.
Step 2: File Formal Complaint with Regulator
If dealer doesn't resolve it:
ON
OMVIC Complaint Process:
- Visit omvic.on.ca and click "File a Complaint"
- Complete online complaint form with details
- Upload supporting documents (contract, photos, communications)
- OMVIC investigates and may mediate or prosecute
- You'll receive updates on complaint status
AB
AMVIC Complaint Process:
- Visit amvic.org and click "Submit a Complaint"
- Fill out complaint form detailing the issue
- Attach evidence (contracts, inspection reports, photos)
- AMVIC reviews and may investigate or facilitate resolution
- Can result in dealer penalties or compensation
BC, QC, SK, MB, NS, NB, PE, NL
Contact your provincial consumer protection office. Each has online complaint portals and staff who can guide you through the process.
Step 3: Consider Small Claims Court
If regulatory complaint doesn't resolve it:
- Small claims court handles disputes up to $15,000-35,000 (varies by province)
- You don't need a lawyer (though you can hire one)
- Filing fees: $100-300 typically
- Process takes 3-12 months
- Bring all documentation as evidence
When to consider small claims:
- Clear breach of contract
- Dealer fraud or misrepresentation
- Strong documentation
- Amount in dispute justifies time and effort
Resources:
- Provincial court websites have small claims guides
- Community legal clinics offer free advice
- Small claims court offices can explain the process
Quick Tip
Before filing in small claims court, send the dealer a demand letter stating you'll file if they don't resolve within 14 days. This often prompts settlement to avoid court costs and public record.
Red Flags: When to Walk Away
Trust your instincts. Walk away if you encounter:
Dealer behavior:
- Refuses to provide documents in writing
- Pressure tactics ("Deal expires today!")
- Won't let you get pre-purchase inspection
- Not registered with provincial regulator
- Negative reviews citing fraud or misrepresentation
Vehicle issues:
- VIN doesn't match paperwork
- Won't provide vehicle history report
- Salvage title not disclosed
- Refuses to show service records
- Odometer seems inconsistent with wear
Financial red flags:
- Fees not disclosed upfront
- Contract numbers don't match verbal agreement
- Pressure to sign without reading
- "Trust me, just sign here"
- Financing terms change at last minute
Watch Out
No deal is so good that it's worth risking fraud or major financial loss. If something feels wrong, walk away. There are always other vehicles and honest dealers.
Before You Buy: Protection Checklist
Use this checklist to protect yourself:
Research:
- [ ] Verify dealer is licensed with provincial regulator
- [ ] Check dealer reviews and complaint history
- [ ] Research fair market value for the vehicle
- [ ] Get pre-approved for financing from bank/credit union
Vehicle inspection:
- [ ] Get vehicle history report (CarFax, CarProof)
- [ ] Verify VIN matches across vehicle and paperwork
- [ ] Get independent pre-purchase inspection
- [ ] Test drive thoroughly in various conditions
- [ ] Check for recalls and verify they've been completed
Documentation:
- [ ] Review Bill of Sale completely before signing
- [ ] Verify all fees are itemized and explained
- [ ] Ensure safety certificate is provided (where required)
- [ ] Get warranty information in writing (if applicable)
- [ ] Verify no liens exist on the vehicle
Before signing:
- [ ] Read entire contract (every word)
- [ ] Verify all numbers match verbal agreement
- [ ] Confirm no blank spaces in contract
- [ ] Understand cancellation policy (if any)
- [ ] Keep copies of ALL documents
After purchase:
- [ ] Register vehicle with provincial registry within required timeframe
- [ ] Get insurance before driving off the lot
- [ ] Keep all paperwork organized and accessible
- [ ] Document vehicle condition with photos/video
Your Rights Summary by Province
Ontario
- OMVIC regulated
- Safety Standards Certificate required
- No cooling-off period
- "As-is" sales permitted
- Dealers must disclose damage, previous use, liens
Alberta
- AMVIC regulated
- Provincial Inspection Certificate required (under 12 years)
- No cooling-off period
- Strong disclosure requirements
- Vehicle history must be available
British Columbia
- VSA regulated
- Safety inspection required for private sales
- No cooling-off period
- Previous use must be disclosed (lease, demo, etc.)
- Strong consumer protection laws
Quebec
- OPC regulated
- Mandatory dealer warranties on used vehicles
- 2-day cooling-off period (if signed at dealership)
- Strongest consumer protection in Canada
- "As-is" sales very limited
Other Provinces
- Regulated by provincial consumer affairs
- Safety inspection requirements vary
- Generally no cooling-off period
- Basic disclosure requirements apply
- Check provincial website for specific rules
Key Takeaways
- OMVIC (Ontario) and AMVIC (Alberta) regulate dealers and protect consumers; all provinces have regulatory bodies
- You have rights: Accurate information, written contracts, safety standards, and warranty protection (varies by province)
- Most provinces have NO cooling-off period - once you sign, the sale is binding
- Safety certifications are required in most provinces and must be provided at time of sale
- Quebec has mandatory dealer warranties on used vehicles; most provinces don't
- Bill of Sale is critical - read everything before signing and verify all information is accurate
- Watch for scams: Odometer fraud, curbsiding, undisclosed salvage titles, VIN cloning, and hidden liens
- File complaints with provincial regulators if dealers violate regulations
- Red flags = walk away: Pressure tactics, missing documentation, unlicensed dealers, or mismatched information
- Always get vehicle history report and independent pre-purchase inspection
Next Steps
Before you shop:
- Bookmark your provincial regulator's website
- Understand your rights in your province
- Know what documentation you're entitled to
- Have a plan if something goes wrong
When you buy:
- Verify dealer is licensed
- Get everything in writing
- Read all documents carefully
- Don't sign under pressure
Resources:
- OMVIC: omvic.on.ca | 1-800-943-6002
- AMVIC: amvic.org | 1-877-979-8100
- VSA (BC): vehiclesalesauthority.com
- OPC (Quebec): opc.gouv.qc.ca
- CAMVAP: camvap.ca (vehicle arbitration)
Calculate your budget before shopping
Knowledge is your best protection. Understanding your rights and the regulatory framework gives you confidence to buy safely and recourse if things go wrong.