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Should I buy a new or used car?

This decision depends on how much money you want to spend, what you are comfortable with, and if you can find a car that meets your needs.

New Car

If you buy a new car, you will probably benefit from the most up-to-date technology in fuel efficiency and safety. Of course, new cars are also more expensive than used cars.

Read Step-by-Step - Buying a New Car for more information.

Used Car

With careful shopping, you can find a used car that meets your needs and is a great deal. Good used cars are in demand. You can get a used car from different places such as, a dealership, a service station,  or a private seller.

By Ontario law, private sellers must provide buyers with a Used Vehicle Information Package. This package explains how to buy a used car and your rights and responsibilities as a consumer.

It will also give you more information about the car, such as:

• Current and previous owners
• Outstanding debts
• Description of the vehicle
• Wholesale and retail value of the car's model and year, if available

Watch out for curbsiders. These are people who pretend to be private sellers, but are actually in the business of selling stolen, rebuilt or damaged vehicles.

Read Step-by-Step - Buying a Used Car for more information.

For More Information

• Compare Cars - A helpful tool for comparing prices and features of up to 3 cars.
• Consumer Beware List - This is a list of businesses, including car repair shops, that consumers have complained about to the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services. It provides details on the nature of the complaint and if any charges were laid.
• Buying and Selling a Used Vehicle in Ontario - Your rights and responsibilities under the law. From the Ministry of Transportation.
• Buy with Confidence - This website lists car dealers that are registered with the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC). All professional dealers in Ontario are required by law to register with OMVIC.