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Spotting These Red Flags Could Save You Thousands

February 18, 2026
Blogs

Buying a vehicle should be an exciting step, not a stressful guessing game. But with so many choices and details to consider, it’s not always easy to know if a deal is as good as it sounds. Knowing how to spot red flags can help protect you from unexpected costs and problems down the road. 

OMVIC helps car buyers feel more confident by sharing clear warning signs to watch for and letting you know your rights when buying from a registered dealer. With the right knowledge, consumers can ask better questions, make better decisions, and avoid costly surprises. 

 RED FLAGS = Warning Signs to Stop and Look Twice and Buy Smart 

🚩 Red Flag: Low mileage. High wear. 

  • Odometer doesn’t match service records or vehicle history. 
  • Heavy wear on pedals, seats, or steering wheel despite “low mileage.” 
  • Price is suspiciously low, most likely due to the rolled back odometer.  

🚩 Red Flag: The VINs don’t match  

  • VIN numbers don’t match on the dashboard, inside the driver’s door, ownership, and history report. 
  • Missing or altered VIN plates – check the VIN carefully for any signs of tampering. Watch for loose or mismatched rivets, scratched or altered numbers, screws used instead of rivets, or tape, glue, or paint covering the VIN area. 
  • No Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP). 

🚩 Red Flag: Hidden Damage in the History Report 

  • An accident history that wasn’t disclosed.  
  • “Salvage” or “rebuilt” branding on vehicle history. 
  • Refusal to allow a test drive.  
  • Seller refuses an independent mechanic’s inspection. 
  • Incomplete or missing repair documentation. 

🚩 Red Flag: The Ad Price Doesn’t Match the Final Price  

  • Charges added beyond the advertised price (other than HST and licensing). 
  • Optional add-ons being included without the customer’s consent.  
  • Vague or confusing bill of sale. 
  • Monthly payment rather than the overall cost of vehicle.  

🚩 Other Red Flags to Watch For 

  • Price far below market value. 
  • No test drive allowed. 
  • Altered or incomplete paperwork. 
  • The name on vehicle ownership does not match the individual you’re dealing with. 
  • Will only accept cash. 
  • Pressure tactics used to complete a quick sale. 

GREEN FLAGS = Signs You’re on the Right Track 

✅ Clear Mileage 

  • Odometer matches service records and vehicle history. 
  • Wear and tear are consistent with age and mileage. 

✅ Verified Identity 

  • VIN matches across the vehicle and all its records and reports.  
  • Clean vehicle history report. 

✅ Clean Vehicle History 

  • Independent inspection welcomed. 
  • Full disclosure of repairs, past damage and vehicle use (if applicable). 
  • No salvage or rebuild branding title (unless clearly disclosed). 

✅ Clear Pricing 

  • Advertised price matches the bill of sale. 
  • Only HST and licensing added. 
  • Optional add-ons clearly explained and optional. 

✅ Trustworthy Seller 

OMVIC registered dealer 

  • Provides complete, unaltered paperwork. 
  • Only adds additional items to the bill of sale AFTER the consumer has agreed to purchase these options.