Checking a used vehicle advertisement before signing

For Ontario registered dealers, advertised vehicle prices generally must include the fees the dealer intends to collect, subject to exceptions such as HST and licensing and particular advertising rules. Preserve the actual advertisement and compare it with the proposed purchase agreement.

Ask for an explanation of added charges, vehicle history information, financing terms, and any conditions before signing. Rules for registered dealers differ from those applying to a private sale. Do not assume there is a general cooling-off right after agreeing to buy a vehicle. A later complaint needs the advertisement, agreement, disclosure documents, and payment history. Identify the specific representation or term in dispute rather than relying only on dissatisfaction with the purchase. Dealer complaints and civil remedies may serve different purposes.

Save a dated copy of the advertisement before visiting the dealer and bring it when comparing the written agreement. Check which vehicle it describes and whether the quoted price was conditional on financing or another arrangement. Ask for the complete price and financing documents, including optional products and the cost of borrowing. An added warranty or service package should be understood before it is accepted. A salesperson's explanation should be checked against the actual contract rather than relied on as a substitute for reading it.

If a dispute arises, identify the exact difference between the advertisement, disclosure, and agreement. Keep the deposit receipt, vehicle identification information, inspection documents, and messages about promised repairs or features. A complaint about price disclosure may involve the dealer regulator, while recovery of a private loss may require another process. Confirm whether the transaction was with a registered dealer or a private seller because the governing obligations differ. Before attempting cancellation, review the legal basis and notice requirements instead of assuming dissatisfaction creates a general right to return the vehicle.

Sources

• OMVIC all in price advertising requirements

Read next: Disputing towing and vehicle storage charges

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: Signing a document with a fountain pen · A desk with a laptop, a plant and a contract.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.