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Have an issue after buying a car? Here’s what OMVIC can and can’t do

June 25, 2026
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Buying a vehicle is a big investment. When something goes wrong, it can feel frustrating and uncertain, especially if you’re not sure where to turn. 

If your issue involves an OMVIC registered dealer in Ontario, OMVIC can help guide you through your options. Understanding what OMVIC can and can’t do is an important first step. 

What OMVIC can help with

OMVIC oversees vehicle sales in Ontario to help make sure deals are fair and follow the law. 

If your concern is about how a vehicle was sold or described, OMVIC may be able to help. This includes situations where something promised wasn’t provided, important information wasn’t shared, or the final deal doesn’t match what you agreed to. 

Examples of issues OMVIC may review include: 

  • Unpaid liens on a vehicle. 
  • The dealer failed to deliver a purchased vehicle. 
  • The warranty was not submitted. 
  • Deposit was not returned when no bill of sale was signed. 
  • Contract disputes or discrepancies – be sure to get all promises in writing before signing the purchase agreement. If a condition or promise is not included on the bill of sale, it may be difficult to prove it was part of the agreement if a dispute arises later.
  • Vehicle sold is unsafe or not drivable – unless the vehicle is sold as-is, it is expected that the dealership will help when drivability is affected within the first 30 days of ownership. 
  • Previous use or damages not disclosed in the bill of sale. 
  • Hidden fees  
  • Dealer failed to properly register ownership. 

In short, if the issue is related to the sale or what the dealer was supposed to do, it’s worth reaching out. 

What OMVIC cannot help with

Important: Not every concern falls under OMVIC’s authority, and knowing this early can save time.

OMVIC can only assist with issues related to a vehicle sale and cannot address concerns that are not part of the vehicle sales process in Ontario.  

Examples include: 

  • Buyer’s remorse. 
  • Repairs or service issues after purchase. 
  • Any issues related to repairs or services your vehicle has received after you have driven the vehicle, organizations like the Better Business Bureau may be able to assist. 
  • Third party warranty claim disputes. These matters must be addressed directly with your warranty provider.  
  • Transactions that took place outside Ontario. 
  • Bought from a private seller or illegal, unregistered seller. 

Understanding where OMVIC can support consumers can help  ensure you’re directing your concern to the right place from the start. 

How the complaint process works

If an issue arises, your first step should be to contact the dealership directly. Explain your concerns in writing, address them to the manager, and keep copies of all correspondence. Be clear about the resolution you are seeking and provide a reasonable deadline for the dealership to respond. 

If that doesn’t work, submit your complaint using this form. The Complaints and Inquiries team will assess if there may have been a breach of Ontario’s motor vehicle sales laws.  If it is confirmed that there was a breach in the MVDA, you’ll be asked to provide documents such as your bill of sale, contracts, and any communication you’ve had with the dealer, which is why it is so important to get everything in writing when communicating with the dealer. This helps OMVIC assess the situation and decide on next steps. 

The Complaints and Inquiries team may contact the the dealer for a response, attempting to facilitate a resolution, or taking regulatory action where appropriate 

What to expect

OMVIC plays an important role in overseeing the motor vehicle sales industry and addressing potential misconduct. However, it’s important to understand that OMVIC cannot force a dealer to cancel a contract, return money, or complete repairs. In some situations, resolving the issue may involve other steps, such as pursuing the matter through civil channels. 

Know your options and move forward with confidence

Running into an issue after buying a vehicle can feel overwhelming but knowing where to turn makes a difference.  Understanding what OMVIC can and can’t do helps you take the right steps, ask the right questions, and protect your investment. 

Starting with OMVIC gives Ontario car buyers a clearer path forward when something doesn’t go as expected. 

Remember to always look twice, and buy smart.