Buying a used car can be exciting — but it’s also a major decision. Whether you’re shopping in Toronto, Ottawa, or anywhere across Ontario, knowing the right questions to ask can save you time, money, and stress.
Below, we break down the most important things to ask when visiting a dealership so you can buy with confidence.
🚗 1. “Can I See the Vehicle History Report?”
In Ontario, reputable dealerships will always provide a Carfax Canada or similar report. This document shows details like:
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Accident history
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Service records
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Number of previous owners
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Odometer readings
If a dealer hesitates to show you the report, that’s a red flag. Ask for a copy and review it carefully — especially for signs of major repairs or inconsistent mileage.
🔍 2. “Has the Vehicle Passed a Safety Inspection?”
Before any used car is sold in Ontario, it must pass a Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) inspection. This certificate confirms that the car meets provincial safety requirements.
Ask:
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When was the last inspection done?
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Who performed it?
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Can I see the certificate?
If the car is being sold “as-is,” understand that you’ll be responsible for bringing it up to safety standards before registering it.
🧾 3. “What’s Included in the Price?”
Be clear about what the sticker price covers. Ask if it includes:
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Licensing fees
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HST
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Safety certification
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Vehicle reconditioning
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Administration or documentation fees
Ontario dealerships are required by law to advertise “all-in pricing” — so the price you see should include all mandatory fees except for HST and licensing. If you notice extra hidden costs, clarify them right away.
💳 4. “What Financing Options Are Available?”
Even for used vehicles, most Ontario dealerships offer flexible financing. Ask about:
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Available interest rates and terms
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Minimum down payment
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Any early-payment penalties
If you have less-than-perfect credit, inquire whether they work with subprime lenders or have in-house financing programs. A reputable dealership will help you find a solution that fits your budget.
🛠️ 5. “What Kind of Warranty or Coverage Is Offered?”
Used cars often come with:
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Remaining manufacturer warranty
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Extended third-party warranty options
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In-house dealership warranty
Ask what’s covered, for how long, and under what conditions. Extended warranties can add peace of mind, but make sure you understand the fine print before signing.
🔄 6. “Can I Take It for a Test Drive?”
Never skip the test drive. During your drive:
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Test the brakes, steering, and alignment
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Listen for any unusual sounds
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Check comfort, visibility, and technology features
This is your chance to see if the car truly fits your needs — and your lifestyle.
📑 7. “Can You Show Me the Service Records?”
Consistent maintenance is a great sign of a well-cared-for vehicle. Look for records showing oil changes, brake service, and tire rotations at regular intervals. Dealerships that take pride in their inventory will often keep these records on file.
🤝 8. “Is the Vehicle Still Available for Certification?”
If you’re buying a car that’s advertised “as-is,” you can ask the dealership to certify it for an additional cost. This ensures it meets Ontario’s legal safety standards and can help you avoid unexpected repair expenses after purchase.
🧭 Final Thoughts: Shop Smart, Drive Confidently
Buying a used car from a dealership in Ontario can be a smooth and secure process — as long as you ask the right questions. Always take your time, read the fine print, and make sure you understand every detail before signing.
When you buy from a trusted, OMVIC-registered dealer, you can enjoy added protection and peace of mind.
🔑 Key Takeaways
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Always ask for the Carfax Canada report
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Confirm safety certification and warranty coverage
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Understand all-in pricing and financing options
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Take a test drive before committing
Shopping smart means driving happy — and knowing that your next used car is the right one for you.