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Planning to Buy a Car in 2026? What Ontario Buyers Should Know Before Signing

January 29, 2026
Blogs

If you’re thinking about buying a vehicle in the next six months, you’re not alone, January is when many people start planning big purchases for the year ahead. Whether you’re eyeing a new model or looking for a reliable used car, a little preparation now can make your experience clearer, safer, and more confident.

In Ontario, you have rights when buying a vehicle, and those rights are overseen by the province’s motor vehicle sales regulator, OMVIC. OMVIC helps protect consumers by providing information and support, so you understand what to expect before you agree to purchase a vehicle.

  1. Verify the Dealer Before You Visit
    Anyone selling vehicles in Ontario must be registered with OMVIC. Purchasing from an OMVIC registered dealer helps you stay protected when buying a vehicle.
  1. Always Check Before You Sign, There’s No Going Back
    There is no cool-off period in Ontario. This means that all sales are final unless the contract includes a condition allowing for cancellation. Only sign the contract if you are certain you want to purchase the vehicle and are happy with the terms and conditions and any add-ons you have agreed to purchase.Dealers may agree to cancel a purchase agreement, but it is not a requirement of the law, and they may keep some or all of your deposit.  This is to cover costs they incurred as a result of the agreed sale or additional losses they may suffer, as a result of having to resell the vehicle.So, before you pick up a pen:
    • Review the all-in price – it must include all fees except HST and licensing. Make sure the price matches the one in the ad, including the features listed.
    • Confirm whether any optional products (warranties, protection packages, rust proofing, etc.) are only included when you have agreed to purchase them, and not by default.
    • Get all promises in writing.
  1. If You Have Questions or the Deal Feels Off, Contact OMVIC
    If a deal feels rushed, unclear or the numbers suddenly change, you can pause the process. OMVIC’s Complaints & Inquiries team can answer questions before you commit, helping you understand whether a dealer is following the rules.
  2. Hear Directly from the Experts
    Visit OMVIC’s YouTube channel to learn practical car-buying tips from experts in our OMVIC Answers video series. The best way to stay informed about car-buying advice, webinars, and events throughout your car-buying journey is to subscribe to OMVIC’s monthly consumer email. Each month, you’ll get practical, little-known information about your rights when buying a vehicle, delivered straight to your inbox.

Start the Year with Confidence
Whether you’re shopping this winter or planning for spring, a few minutes of prep can save you time, money, and stress down the line.