What Car Buyers Wanted to Know at the 2025 Canadian International AutoShow

The 2025 Canadian International AutoShow was an exciting event for car enthusiasts, industry professionals, and consumers alike. As Ontario’s vehicle sales regulator, OMVIC was on hand to answer consumer and dealer inquiries about vehicle purchasing, industry regulations, and business requirements. Among the many questions we received, three stood out as the most frequently asked:

1. What can I do if I notice extra charges added to the vehicle price after purchase? Even several weeks following the purchase?

In Ontario, dealers must follow all-in price advertising laws, meaning the price they advertise, or quote must include all mandatory fees and charges, except for HST and licensing. If you notice extra charges for items you didn’t agree to on your bill of sale after your purchase, even weeks later:

1. Review Your Bill of Sale – Check the signed agreement to confirm the final price and included fees.

2. Contact the Dealer – Bring up the issue with the dealership and ask for an explanation or refund.

3. File a Complaint with OMVIC – If the dealer refuses to resolve the issue, you can file a complaint with OMVIC, Ontario’s vehicle sales regulator, for assistance.

Click here for more information or to file a complaint.

2. Can a Dealer Refuse a Cash Purchase?

A common question we heard from consumers was whether a dealer can refuse to accept cash as payment for a vehicle.

Yes, a dealer has the right to refuse a cash purchase, just as a consumer has the right to walk away if they do not agree with the price of the vehicle.

If a dealer offers a different price for a cash-only transaction compared to a financed purchase, the cash price must be clearly stated in the advertised price. Dealers cannot arbitrarily change the price for a cash purchase. Both the cash price and the financed price must be clear, easy to understand, and prominently displayed.

This means that small print disclaimers altering the price are not allowed—advertised prices must be clear and compliant with all-in pricing laws. If you plan to pay in cash, it’s best to discuss payment options with the dealer beforehand to avoid surprises. Understanding dealership policies can help ensure a smooth purchasing process.

3. What Happens If a Dealer Adds Items After We Agree to a Price?

Transparency in vehicle pricing is a key concern for consumers. Some AutoShow attendees asked what their rights are if a dealer adds extra costs or products after agreeing on a price.

Ontario law requires that all-in pricing be followed, meaning the price advertised or negotiated must include all mandatory fees and charges, except for HST and licensing. Dealers cannot add additional costs without consent of the consumer. If a dealer attempts to add charges or products—such as extended warranties, rustproofing, or administrative fees—after you have agreed on a price, you have the right to refuse them. As a consumer, you have the right to choose which features to include in your vehicle and which to leave out. Understanding your rights is crucial to ensure you aren’t overpaying for items you do not need or want and that dealers are following the pricing laws in automotive sales.

If you believe a dealer has engaged in unfair pricing practices, you can report the issue to OMVIC. Consumer protection is a priority, and OMVIC enforces all-in pricing laws to prevent deceptive sales tactics.

Final Thoughts

The Canadian International AutoShow provided an excellent opportunity to connect with consumers and industry professionals, clarifying important aspects of vehicle sales and dealership operations. Whether you’re looking to start a career in the industry or purchase a vehicle with confidence, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential. OMVIC remains committed to educating Ontarians and ensuring transparency in the marketplace.