Your Guide to Breaking Down the Bill of Sale and All-In Pricing in Ontario

When purchasing a vehicle in Ontario, understanding all-in price advertising and knowing how this is connected to your bill of sale can help you avoid hidden fees and ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for. Let’s take a closer look at these important aspects. 

Understanding all-in pricing

All-in price advertising means the advertisement of car includes the total cost of the vehicle, including all mandatory fees such as delivery and any administration fees. Car dealers must ensure that what you see in the ad reflects the full cost of the vehicle, except for HST and licensing fees. This protects you from unexpected or hidden charges and that this is the cost that will end up on your bill of sale. 

All-In pricing vs. itemization 

Sometimes on a bill of sale you will see each item listed as a separate item. What’s important is that the total price on the bill of sale matches the price you saw on the ad. The total on the bill of sale should match the advertised all-in price, but breaking down the costs helps you understand each part of the transaction. The purpose is transparency, so you can clearly see what you’re paying for. 

What’s not included in all-in pricing 

Certain costs are sometimes not part of the all-in price and are optional extras. These may include: 

• Optional add-ons: Extras like extended warranties, protection packages, VIN-etching or rustproofing. 

If you choose to add extra items, the cost will be higher than the advertised price. These additional items must still be listed in the bill of sale. 

As a consumer, you should be asking about any add-ons, even if they’re included in the advertised price. If you feel these options are unnecessary, try negotiating with the dealer. If they won’t remove them, you’re free to walk away and shop for a vehicle at a different dealership. 

Reading the bill of sale 

The bill of sale is a one of the most important documents in your vehicle purchase. It breaks down the total cost, helping you see where your money is going. Here’s what you’ll typically find itemized: 

• Base price of the vehicle: The starting cost of the vehicle. 

• Sales taxes: Provincial and federal taxes (HST). 

• PDI (Pre-Delivery Inspection): The cost of preparing the vehicle for delivery. 

• Licensing fees: Charges for license plates and associated costs. 

• Dealer fees: These could include administrative, or service fees charged by the dealer. 

• Optional add-ons: Extras like extended warranties, rustproofing, or protection packages. 

Protecting yourself 

Ontario’s all-in pricing legislation ensures you’re not surprised by hidden fees. Dealers must advertise the full cost of the vehicle with all standard and mandatory charges, helping you see the total amount clearly. This transparency protects you from additional costs down the road. 

By thoroughly reviewing your bill of sale and ensuring it matches the advertised price, you can confidently make your vehicle purchase without worrying about surprise charges.