On the hunt for a used vehicle? Beware of curbsiders, who can disrupt your deal. This is a message the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC), Ontario’s motor vehicle sales regulator, continues to champion as it works to protect consumers against fraudulent vehicle sellers.
“In the motor vehicle sales industry, curbsiders are a well-known problem,” says Sam Cosentino, director of enforcement at OMVIC. “The name comes from their habit of meeting prospective buyers by a curb in a parking lot or residential area, rather than in an OMVIC- registered dealership. They pose as private sellers, pretending to sell a personal motor vehicle. But they are actually buying and selling vehicles for profit without a professional licence or registration, which is illegal in Ontario.”
Curbsiders are more common than one might think. With supply chain shortages and delays making it difficult for legitimate car dealers to find and retain inventory, curbsiders are taking advantage of reduced stock to lure car buyers. Today, OMVIC estimates that at least 30 per cent of vehicles listed online for sale by owner are listed by curbsiders. Many of these individuals are selling vehicles that have been altered or misrepresented to appear more valuable and road worthy than they are.
“Imagine you’re searching for a used car online,” Sam offers. “You come across what looks like a great deal, and you send a message to the seller who is eager to finalize the sale. A week later, after a trip to your mechanic, you realize the car you purchased is an insurance write-off. It was sold at auction following a serious accident, its odometer has been tampered with, and it’s missing crucial safety elements, like airbags.”
Buyer beware is critical when dealing with curbsiders. Beyond the risk of buying a car that is misrepresented, consumers who purchase from curbsiders have little to no options if something goes wrong. Consumer protection legislation provides vehicle-buying protections only when consumers purchase from an OMVIC-registered dealer.
The dangers associated with curbside deals can be serious. Fortunately, there are tips that will help car buyers minimize their risk when buying privately. They include:
- Seek authentication: always ask car sellers for ID and proof of ownership. Consider it a red flag if the vehicle is not registered in the seller’s name or has only been registered for a short period of time.
- Beware of sellers who refuse inspections: additionally, purchase a vehicle history report to learn of any undisclosed accident history.
- Obtain a used vehicle information package (UVIP): these can be bought from the Ministry of Transportation and include information on vehicle liens, odometer history, and the owner’s background.
- Double-check the odometer: ensure the vehicle’s odometer has not been tampered with. Also, check for excessive wear on the interior or exterior of the vehicle.
- Keep your guard up: if the vehicle is priced below market value, be suspicious. Do your research to learn the vehicle’s current market value and remember: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
One of the best ways to protect yourself against curbsiders is to stay informed and buy from an OMVIC-registered dealer. They can be identified by OMVIC’s blue and yellow decal on their door or window or the dealer search on OMVIC’s website.
Buying a new or used vehicle?
Be sure to visit omvic.ca to learn about your rights as a car buyer purchasing from an OMVIC-registered dealer, to access free resources, and to sign up for OMVIC’s monthly newsletter, Consumer Line. Alternatively, contact OMVIC’s consumer support team at consumers@omvic.on.ca or 1-800-943-6002 for expert advice and answers to all your car-buying questions.
If you think you’ve spotted a curbsider, report them to nocurbs@omvic.on.ca or call 1-888-NO-CURBS (662-8727).
OMVIC also offers free education and webinars for consumers upon request, email education@omvic.on.ca for more information on our services and materials.
Follow OMVIC on social media to stay up to date on the latest news.
IG: @omvic_official
Twitter: @omvic_official
Facebook: Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC)
