Considering buying a used vehicle, but not sure where to start? Before you go shopping, visit amvic.org for free, reliable information before and during your purchase.
Before: research the vehicle
Use the VIN (vehicle identification number) to:
- Get a current vehicle history report such as a Carfax report to get information like the number of accidents the vehicle has been in.
- Get a vehicle information report to check the number of past owners and confirm there are no outstanding liens or debts on the vehicle.
During: use AMVIC’s consumer guide
Check out AMVIC’s used vehicle consumer guide to walk you through the purchase of a used vehicle from a licensed automotive business. When you’re buying a used vehicle, the automotive business must provide you with the following vehicle information:
- Mechanical Fitness Assessment (MFA): A completed MFA must be provided to you before you buy a used vehicle. The MFA is only an assessment, not an inspection, however it contains useful information. It is filled out by a certified journeyperson technician and is valid for 120 days.
- Vehicle history requirements: Under Section 31.1(1) of the Automotive Business Regulation (ABR), automotive businesses are required to share specific details about a vehicle’s history with consumers. For instance, they must disclose if a vehicle has been in an accident where the total repair bill—including parts and labour—was more than $3,000.