Buying a vehicle is the second largest purchase in most peoples' lives, next to buying a house, and in this post we break down many of the advantages of buying a used vehicle from a reputable dealer, and coincidentally some of the disadvantages private selling poses. In local newspapers, automotive magazines, and private postings there are literally thousands of vehicles for sale. However, when buying a vehicle privately, the vehicle is purchased "as is". The vehicle may have a Safety Standard Certificate, but this is neither a warranty nor a guarantee that the vehicle will last for any specific period of time. Also, "private sales" might not be quite what they seem. Consumers must beware of whom they buy from.

Many people believe that buying a vehicle from a private seller will save them money. But is this true?
We breakdown a list of purchasing from a private seller versus purchasing your vehicle from a reputable dealer.

Buying Private

• With a private seller, you lose the 13% trade-in tax savings.
• Private sellers often determine their asking price by first checking out what dealers are asking for a similar vehicle. They're sold 'as is' and it's 'buyer beware'.
• Private vehicle sales offer no guarantees. The buyer often has no recourse if the vehicle shows signs of significant problems, even days later.
• There is nothing holding a private seller to revealing their car’s history. Most sellers will say that they took really good care of the vehicle.
• There are hidden costs such as an expensive certification and emissions testing that the seller may not be willing to pay for.

Buying From a Dealership

• Dealers ensure you get the 13% trade-in tax savings.
• Dealers have access to financing programs, and can offer trade-in options which can make your used car purchase more affordable.
• Dealers can offer warranties and after-sale service for used vehicles.
• Dealers guarantee that the vehicles they sell aren’t stolen and don’t have any liens against them. They must also supply you with all known material facts about the vehicle, such as previous accidents, [ex, CarProof or CarFax report]
• When a dealer buys a car to resell, he has it thoroughly inspected and refurbished – both mechanically and cosmetically. That usually accounts for most of any difference in cost between buying privately and from a dealer. Through Ontario Motor Sales all our vehicles go through a General Motors 150 point certified inspection to be approved for sale under the Certified Pre-Owned moniker.