Buying new

Choosing a seller

AMVIC recommends you choose products and services sold by AMVIC-licensed businesses. Licensed businesses commit to following the consumer protection rules set out in Alberta’s Consumer Protection Act. Find more information on the benefits of buying from a licensed business and how to locate a licensed business.

Before you go

  • Take a photo or a copy of an ad you see to ensure the seller adheres to the all-in advertised price, which must include all fees and charges the seller intends to charge. Learn more about all-in advertised pricing.
  • Decide on your budget. Focus on the total cost of the vehicle, not the affordability of the monthly payment.
  • Never be in a rush when purchasing a vehicle. Take your time and include a trusted friend or relative in the process.

Deposits

  • You should never have to give a deposit in order to test drive or negotiate a price for a vehicle. If there is no sales agreement, there should be no need for a deposit.
  • Don’t just assume the deposit is refundable. Read carefully and ask questions to ensure the deposit is refundable or non-refundable, and under what terms and conditions.
  • Learn more about deposits and other important information before you sign on the dotted line.

Bill of sale

  • Read every word in a document. If it requires a signature, it is important!
  • Before signing, review the bill of sale to be sure all information is accurate and complete. Verify the details of the finance agreement and be sure all reported income and down payment amounts are correct.
  • Stop shopping after you sign a purchase contract. When you buy a vehicle, there is no “cooling off” period. Even if you find a better deal or change your mind, a dealer can enforce the contract.
  • Use AMVIC’s consumer guide for new vehicle purchases to help remind you what is legally required on the bill of sale.

After you buy

  • Consumers who believe they were treated unfairly by a licensed seller can file a complaint with AMVIC .
  • The Compensation Fund may be available to the customers of a failed and closed AMVIC-licensed business. However, consumers are not eligible to apply to the Compensation Fund if they buy from a private seller or curber.