Vehicle New
1. There is no need to put down a deposit on a vehicle. If you must, part only with what you are prepared to lose if you change your mind, for example $50 or $100.
2. It is an offence to tie the financing of a vehicle to the purchase of sickness, accident and life insurance.
3. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of any warranties. Words are cheap. Don't rely on verbal promises.
4. The vehicle advertised price must include the extras such as freight, delivery, etc. This enables you to shop and compare prices.
5. Always test-drive a vehicle over a variety of road surfaces before you buy.
6. If you feel some violation has occurred during the transaction, report your concerns to the Vehicle Sales Authority. You may also check out their website at www.vehiclesalesauthority.com or contact them at (604) 294-9889.
7. The Motor Dealer Customer Compensation Fund, which went into effect June 1, 1995 offers buyers of motor vehicles or extended 'in-house' warranty plans the ability to claim up to $20,000 in cases of dealership business failure, dishonest conduct or failure to provide clear title. This protection covers buyers from registered dealers. For more information on applying to the Motor Dealer Customer Compensation Fund, contact Consumer Services Office of the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
- The Better Business Bureau of Mainland B.C. is the administrator for CAMVAP, The Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan in B.C. and the Yukon. CAMVAP will settle disputes over interpretation, application or administration of vehicle warranties or alleged defects in workmanship or materials on a vehicle as supplied by the manufacturer to an authorized dealer. If you believe you may qualify for CAMVAP, contact CAMVAP directly. You may also wish to check out the CAMVAP web site at www.camvap.ca or call 1-800-207-0685 or Vancouver area 604-682-6280 or e-mail: camvap@mbc.bbb.org.
- Lemon-Aid guide author Phil Edmonston will fax motorists a summary of all TSB's (technical service bulletins) for a specific vehicle, and copies of individual bulletins (including hidden warranties) for a fee. To learn more go to: www.lemonaidcars.com.
- Yahoo's auto section at http://auto.yahoo.com offers a comparison feature to help you compare vehicles in which you may be interested.
- Check out the Consumer Reports website at http://www.consumerreports.org regarding vehicle recalls.
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