THANKSGIVING DAY – OCTOBER 14, 2024

THANKSGIVING DAY - OCTOBER 14, 2024

Dealers are legally required to close on Thanksgiving Day, Monday, October 14th, unless located in a tourist area as designated by their local municipality.

Dealers may be open on Saturday, October 12th and, if they wish, on Sunday, October 13th.

The UCDA search facility will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday, but will be available as usual from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 12th and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15th.

On-line searches are available on Thanksgiving Monday at www.ucdasearches.com

DriveON Light-Duty/Passenger Vehicle Rollout and Extended Transition Period for Annual and Semi-Annual Inspections

DriveON Light-Duty/Passenger Vehicle Rollout and Extended Transition Period for Annual and Semi-Annual Inspections

Motor Vehicle Inspection Stations (MVIS) offering ONLY light-duty vehicle safety inspections are now finally able to apply for, and enroll in, the new digital safety platform.

MVIS facilities that only conduct light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections, can apply through the DriveON portal at www.driveonportal.com.

The MTO’s full release and other important news can be seen below:

MEMORANDUM TO:      Motor Vehicle Inspection Station (MVIS) and DriveON Stakeholders

FROM:                              Jennifer Elliot

                                              Director

DATE:                                August 30, 2024

SUBJECT:                        DriveON Light-Duty/Passenger Vehicle Rollout and Extended Transition Period for Annual and Semi-Annual Inspections

In July 2022, the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) started combining the heavy-duty diesel vehicle emissions testing program and MTO’s Motor Vehicle Inspection Station (MVIS) program into a single digital inspection program called DriveON. We have been onboarding MVIS facilities to DriveON in a phased approach and are ready to open the next phase, which is onboarding of Light-Duty MVIS facilities.

September 3, 2024 – Light-Duty MVIS Facilities can start applying to the DriveON program

  • MTO is pleased to announce that enrolment into DriveON will open on September 3, 2024, for current MVIS facilities that only conduct light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections.
  • MVIS facilities that only conduct light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections, can apply through the DriveON portal at www.driveonportal.com.
  • Facilities whose applications are approved by the ministry will be onboarded and allowed to purchase the necessary equipment through the DriveON portal.
  • To ensure MVIS facilities receive their DriveON equipment prior to the ending of the MVIS program on December 31, 2024, it is strongly recommended they complete the enrolment process and purchase equipment prior to November 1, 2024.

Complimentary Inspection Tablet for Light-Duty Facilities

  • To help support the industry, the ministry will be providing one complimentary inspection tablet to all currently licensed MVIS facilities whose applications have been approved to DriveON during the purchase of the initial equipment package. 
  • MVIS facilities that only conduct light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections will be eligible to receive one complimentary inspection tablet if onboarded to DriveON before December 31, 2024. 
  • If MVIS facilities don’t apply to DriveON by December 31, 2024, they will no longer be able to conduct light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections under the MVIS program. These facilities will have to wait until the next phase of onboarding occurring after December 31, 2024, to apply and will not be eligible to receive a complimentary inspection tablet.

Technicians Entering the DriveON Program Must:

  • Have a valid Certificate of Qualification with Skilled Trades Ontario that is active and for which all fees have been paid. This information can be verified by calling 1-855-299-0028 or going online and checking the public registry for status through Skilled Trades Ontario at www.skilledtradesontario.ca.
  • Register as a technician on the DriveON portal.
  • Complete the mandatory online training available on the portal, which is free of charge and available 24/7.

MVIS facility owners and technicians are encouraged to review the Program Enrolment Package and begin collecting the required documents for their DriveON application. The Program Enrolment Package can be found on the DriveON portal at www.driveonportal.com.

DriveON Vendor

Further information regarding the process on how to enrol in the DriveON program will be communicated by the DriveON vendor, Parsons Inc. Additionally, Parsons will be hosting information sessions during the month of September, and we encourage you to attend to have your questions and/or concerns addressed:

  • Wednesday, September 4th at 11:00am
  • Wednesday, September 4th at 2:00pm
  • Thursday, September 5th at 12:00pm
  • Tuesday, September 10th at 10:30am
  • Tuesday, September 10th at 2:00pm
  • Wednesday, September 11th at 10:00am

If you have any questions about the new DriveON program, please contact the Vehicle Inspection Centre Assistance Line toll free at 1-833-420-2110 or by email at VIC@driveonportal.com.

Annual and Semi-annual Certificates Transition Period Extension

  • Annual and semi-annual certificates can no longer be ordered.
  • Ontario Regulation 170/22: Vehicle Inspection Centers states that MVIS stations are to stop issuing or affixing annual or semi-annual stickers after July 31, 2024.
  • However, MTO provided an educational transition period to help existing MVIS stations enter the DriveON program, and to reduce the burden on the industry. During this transition period, existing MVIS stations may continue to issue annual and semi-annual stickers and certificates. MTO is extending the transition period one more time from August 31, 2024, to September 30, 2024.

Refunds

All unused MVIS certificates and stickers must be returned to MTO. Stations that have joined DriveON and have received their equipment, are required by legislation to return all unused MVIS books and certificates. If stations use MVIS certificates, they can face charges and their enrolment into the new DriveON program may be revoked or refused.

  • To qualify for refunds:
    • unused forms of annual inspection and semi-annual inspection certificates and stickers must be returned by October 31, 2024. Heavy-duty stations must also return unused safety standards certificates by October 31, 2024.
    • unused safety standards certificates must be returned by January 31, 2025.
  • Refunds will not be provided if unused annual inspection and semi-annual inspection forms and stickers are returned to the us beyond these dates.
  • Further questions or concerns about refunds may be directed to the MVIS program via telephone at 1-800-387-7736, via Fax at 905-704-2574, or via email at MVIS.CIVA@ontario.ca

Sincerely,

Jennifer Elliott

Director

DriveON Onboarding Q&A

Q1: I am a current light duty/passenger MVIS facility. What will I need when I apply to the DriveON program? 

A1: You will be able to apply to DriveON through the DriveON portal www.driveonportal.com on September 3, 2024. Information regarding the onboarding process can be found in the Program Enrolment Package on the DriveON portal. You can access the guide here at www.driveonportal.com.

Q2: I am a current MVIS facility that only conducts light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections. When do I need to onboard into the DriveON program by? 

A2: The current MVIS program will end on December 31, 2024. MVIS facilities will no longer be authorized by the ministry to perform these types of inspections under the MVIS program as of December 31, 2024. It is strongly recommended to complete enrolment and equipment purchase prior to November 1, 2024, to allow for your application to be processed and equipment shipped in time.

Q3: How do I apply for my complimentary inspection tablet? 

A3: Once an MVIS facility has completed their application to DriveON through the DriveON portal, tablet savings will be applied automatically to their equipment purchase order. No additional action will be required by the MVIS facility during the application process. 

Q4: Am I able to purchase another tablet in addition to my complimentary one? 

A4: Yes, MVIS facilities joining DriveON can purchase multiple tablets based on their operational needs. Additional tablets can be purchased individually or as part of additional packages. Facilities should be aware that the sale of all DriveON equipment is final and non-refundable.

Q5: I own an MVIS facility that performs safety inspections with two MVIS numbers. Do I get a free tablet for each MVIS number? 

A5: Yes. One complimentary tablet will be provided for each MVIS ID number per VIC application.

Q6: When can my technicians register with DriveON?

A6: Technicians can begin the registration process on the portal now at www.driveonportal.com. Once they have created their username and password, they can then start the mandatory online training available on the portal, which is free of charge and available 24/7. This can be done independent of the Vehicle Inspection Centre application process.

Q7: I am a current MVIS facility that only performs structural inspections. How will I know when I can apply to the DriveON program? 

A7: The ministry will communicate onboarding dates for MVIS facilities that only perform structural inspections at a later date. In the meantime, these MVIS facilities planning to apply to the DriveON program should review the Program Enrolment Package found at www.driveonportal.com to begin collecting the necessary documents for their DriveON application. 

Q8: I am a current VIC in the DriveON program that only performs emissions inspections. Am I eligible for a complimentary inspection tablet? 

A8: No, only currently licensed MVIS facilities that are onboarded into DriveON by the required dates are eligible to receive one complimentary inspection tablet.

Q9: Can a current MVIS facility add emissions capability to their VIC?

A9: Yes, MVIS facilities can add emissions inspection capability to their VICs during onboarding. If a current MVI, would also like to conduct DriveON Emissions inspections, they can indicate that in their onboarding application. The vendor will get back to you on the equipment delivery date based on a first come first serve basis.

Q10: I am a current MVIS facility – what if I don’t want to join the DriveON program? 

A10: MVIS facilities that only perform light duty/passenger vehicle inspections are encouraged to join the new DriveON program by December 31, 2024. After this date, no light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections can be performed under the MVIS program.

Q11: I am a current MVIS facility that performs heavy duty inspections. Can I still enroll in DriveON? 

A11: Yes, heavy duty MIVS facilities can still enrol in DriveON.  However, when enrolment opens to MVIS facilities that perform light duty/passenger vehicle inspections, they will be given priority.

August 2024

THIS JUST IN ON THE MTO DIGITAL SAFETY PROJECT

We have just heard from the MTO about some updates for the timing on current MVIS facilities that only perform light duty/passenger vehicle safety inspections.

Information on light-duty / passenger safety MVIS stations and onboarding to DriveON will be released on August 19, 2024.

Onboarding is expected to follow with roll out on September 3, 2024.

Reminder – light duty/passenger vehicle inspections facilities will be eligible for one complimentary inspection tablet when onboarding is open to them.

Further information regarding the process on how to enrol in the DriveON program will be communicated by the DriveON vendor, Parsons Inc. Additional information can also be found on the DriveON portal at www.driveonportal.com.

If you have any questions about the new DriveON program, please contact the Vehicle Inspection Centre Assistance Line toll free at 1-833-420-2110 or by email at VIC@driveonportal.com.

The UCDA will continue to provide up to date information to members as we receive it.

 

Members Asked For Garage Registers

Members got them!

Do you like keeping a printed Garage Register? You are not alone, many of our members prefer that to keeping them electronically.

The UCDA offers printed Garage Register books, just like the ones MTO used to print, and authorized by the MTO, to members for $16 each, including shipping.

If you’d like one (or more) please contact Margi at m.muru@ucda.org or by calling 1-800-268-2598.

For those comfortable keeping such records electronically, a free option is offered by the MTO: Garage Register – Issued Pursuant to the Highway Traffic Act – Forms – Central Forms Repository (CFR) (beta) (gov.on.ca)

DIGITAL DEALER REGISTRATION UPDATE

Indian Status Cards

A “Certificate of Indian Status” card, issued by the Federal Government of Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, is the only form of identification acceptable to exempt a Status Indian from taxes on a vehicle sale or lease.

The holder of such a card only has to pay 5% on the purchase of a motor vehicle from a dealer if delivered at the dealership and will pay no tax ie. 0% if the vehicle is delivered by the dealer to an Indian Reserve.

The provincial portion of the H.S.T., which is 8%, is automatically exempt at the point of sale. This applies regardless of where the Status Indian actually lives.

This is what the cards look like, there are 4 kinds you might encounter:

Laminated Certificate of Indian Status

Certificate of Indian Status “All-in-One”

Certificate of Indian Status “Pilot Project”

Secure Certificate of Indian Status

For detailed rules please visit https://www.ucda.org/DealerInfo/StatusIndianFAQ.aspx or give our Legal Department a call anytime.

Métis and other such Aboriginal ID, membership or association cards are not issued by the Government of Canada and do not exempt the holder from paying H.S.T. on the purchase of a motor vehicle.

Auto Theft Progress

Update

While far from being solved, the auto theft problem seems to be easing for the first time in several years.

Media reports indicate auto theft is down 17% across Canada in the first 6 months of 2024, and the momentum is credited to ceaseless efforts throughout 2023 / 2024 by government and industry to tackle the crisis.

In Ontario, auto theft decreased by 14% while Quebec saw a 36% decline in stolen vehicles.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada paid around $1.5 billion in claims in 2023, a record high. That year, vehicle thefts rose by 50% in Quebec and almost as much in Ontario.

Insurers have said the majority of vehicles are being stolen from Ontario and Quebec and exported through the Port of Montreal.

Around 1.7 million containers moved through the port last year, including 70% of Canada’s legal vehicle exports, according to port authorities.

The federal government estimates 90,000 cars are stolen each year in Canada and many of the thefts involve connections to organized crime.

These are early days yet, but any kind of positive news on this front is a rare and welcome development. We hope to see further action on several fronts over the coming months.

The UCDA will continue its actions in this area. For more information on that, please visit https://tinyurl.com/4mssn34k.

See the full news article here: https://tinyurl.com/tyxycyrh.

Fraud in Auto Finance

Most of this article is based on information from a webinar put on by our Partner, National Bank, back in June.

Auto financing fraud is a growing concern, with fraud rates climbing and the tactics of con artists becoming increasingly sophisticated. The rise in fraud is not limited to the auto industry; it’s a trend that’s been observed across various sectors, including credit cards, deposit accounts, and telecommunications.

Higher fraud rates for auto financing have been noted in Western Canada, specifically in Vancouver and Calgary, as well as in Southern Ontario. The used car market specifically is experiencing higher rates of financial fraud, with some institutions reporting fraud rates of just over 1%.

Millennials, being credit active and more engaged online, are particularly vulnerable to fraud. Their high volume of credit activity and the sharing of personal information online make them prime targets.

To reduce the risk of fraud during vehicle sales, it is worthwhile for dealers to consider the following suggestions:

  • Be consistent with your process.
  • Verify the buyer’s identity using their driver’s license along with at least one other form of valid identification (preferably more).
  • Confirm that the id is valid, not expired.
  • Match the photo on the id to the individual.
  • Driver’s license should sound like metal when it’s dropped on a desk.
  • Train staff on how to carefully examine id ensuring it hasn’t been altered.
  • Watch for multiple fonts (Fraudulent identity will often have multiple)
  • Verify employment income by contacting the employers directly.
  • Approach transactions with new and out of town customers who demand immediate delivery with a heightened level of caution.

The battle against financing fraud requires awareness from both dealers and lending institutions. By understanding the trends, recognizing the red flags, and taking proactive steps for prevention, dealers can decrease the risks.

Dealer Plates

We still get complaints from members from time to time about incorrect enforcement by police in some areas with respect to the proper use of dealer plates, but these complaints are much more rare than they once were.

Personal Use

Personal use of dealer-owned “passenger-class” vehicles with dealer plates is absolutely legal but not on “commercial vehicles” (ie. cargo vans, ambulances etc.) where the cargo area is separate from the passenger compartment.

Dealer Plates may also be used on dealer-owned vehicles for all purposes related to the sale of the vehicle and this includes commercial vehicles.

Documents Needed!

The dealer plate is not restricted to use by the owner of the dealership. It may be used by anyone that has the permission of the dealership; that would include staff and potential buyers who have the vehicle for testing purposes.

Three documents must be with the vehicle whenever a dealer plate is used … not just when used for private purposes:

  1. a true copy (meaning a clear copy of the front and back) of the permit for the dealer plate
  2. the Insurance certificate (pink slip)
  3. * a true copy of the vehicle permit.

* If the vehicle has recently been purchased, a copy of the Bill of Sale may be accepted by the police.

Please call the UCDA if you would like a handy wallet card you can show the police if you are stopped and asked about your use of the Dealer Plate.

Newer Developments

As of January 1, 2021:

  • Dealer plates can be used on a light-duty commercial vehicle (ie. Pickup Trucks), that is part of a dealer’s inventory of motor vehicles and that is “loaded with goods” of a private nature, for private use, provided the manufacturer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the pickup truck does not exceed 3,400 kg (Reg 628). Pickup trucks displaying Dealer plates while being operated for private use may not tow another vehicle.

The MTO has also issued communications to the enforcement community to clarify that the current Dealer plate regulations support using a Dealer plate in the following situations:

  • On a used motor vehicle being transported from auction with no vehicle registration permit, and
  • While transporting a new unregistered motor vehicle where only the New Vehicle Information Statement (NVIS) is present.

As always, if you are charged in circumstances you do not believe to be fair or accurate just give us a call at 416-231-2600 or 1-800-268- 2598. We have helpful documents you can show the crown prosecutor or the judge.

Simplicity: KYCS Vehicle Locate Product

KYCS Locate offers a theft recovery solution for dealerships. The selfpowered waterproof device is simple to install. Installation does not require installers to cut into the wiring of the vehicle. Since no wiring is disturbed during the installation, dealers and consumer don’t have to worry about the manufacturer’s warranty being voided. It can also be used to secure heavy equipment, RVs, powersports and trailers.

KYCS has no monthly subscription fee, offering consumers a costeffective solution. KYCS Locate is virtually undetectable by thieves and the device lasts for 5 years. If a consumer’s vehicle is stolen, KYCS Locate is switched into recovery mode, which means that the vehicle can be monitored and provide law enforcement the information they require. These features lead to a higher probability of the vehicle being recovered.

KYCS offers multiple F&I and inventory protection models tailored for dealerships. It includes geofencing capabilities, creating a virtual boundary around your lot.

If your dealership is interested in exploring KYCS Locate, please contact the UCDA or Jay Lyall jlyall@kycs.ca.

www.KYCS.ca

Selling a High Theft Rate Vehicle… It May Be a Material Fact

It’s no secret. There is an auto theft epidemic across the country and Ontario is at the center of it.

This news comes as no surprise to anyone who has recently looked at his or her auto insurance bill. Insurance companies have begun to introduce additional surcharges for some of the most stolen vehicles across the country.

CAA, for example, recently announced that it would be requiring a $1,500 surcharge on a list of vehicles, see below, (2020 or newer):

  • Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe;
  • GMC Yukon;
  • Land Rover Defender;
  • Range Rover (including Sport, Evoque, Velar);
  • Lexus GX 460, RX 450, RX 350;
  • Toyota 4Runner;
  • Highlander (including Grand Highlander);
  • Acura RDX;
  • Dodge RAM 1500;
  • Jeep Wrangler; or
  • Any vehicle with MSRP of $125,000 or higher (excluding electric vehicles).

CAA will reduce or eliminate this surcharge if owners take certain safety precautions with their vehicle:

  • To have the entire surcharge removed, owners must install an aftermarket immobilizer
  • Owners who install other aftermarket immobilizers, or cut-off systems such as engine wire kill switch, fuse box kill switch, remote or car battery kill switch, fuel cut-off or any two factor authentication system (needs a PIN to start), will be eligible for a removal of the charge upon providing proof of purchase and installation
  • In order to reduce the surcharge to $500, owners can use a steering wheel lock, a brake pedal lock, a wheel and tire lock, keyfob signal blocking (excluding Farady devices) or retractable bollards

CAA is not alone in its introduction of this surcharge. Insurers such as Economical/Definity, Chubb Insurance, and Aviva have introduced similar systems.

This insurance surcharge also has implications for dealers when they are selling vehicles. As UCDA members are well aware, dealers are required to disclose all material facts regarding a vehicle to their customers.

A material fact is any information that may affect the customer’s decision to purchase or lease a vehicle. Whether a vehicle is a high-target for theft, that carries an insurance surcharge, is arguably a material fact requiring disclosure. Disclose this in writing on your bill of sale to avoid controversy in future.

While dealers may be required to disclose whether a vehicle is on the list of most stolen vehicles, dealers should not allow this to cost them sales. Instead, dealers and salespeople may want to use this conversation surrounding auto theft as an opportunity.

If your dealership works with an anti-theft device company or an insurance company that provides a discount for car owners who install anti-theft devices, this may be the perfect opportunity for the dealership to try to sell the customer on these products.

Dealers should keep in mind that while they can provide the customer the choice to purchase these products, they should not force customers to purchase an insurance policy or anti-theft device as part of the sale of a vehicle. That is tied selling and is illegal.

Consumers are not the only ones who can enjoy insurance savings for the use of anti-theft protection. Dealers who are on Baird MacGregor’s UCDA Insurance program already enjoy a 5% discount on their insurance premium if they are set up with KYCS ‘Locate Lot Protection & Vehicle Recovery Plan’ or the Silent Sentinel Vehicle Anti-Theft Protection Plan—for a total savings of 10% if they use both products!

Members interested in applying for Baird MacGregor’s UCDA Insurance program can inquire about the application process by calling the main telephone line at (416) 231-2600.

UCDA Social Media

Revving Our Online Presence: The Power of Social Media for Dealers in Ontario

Social media provides a space where dealers can engage with their community, and share insights.

The UCDA’s embrace of social media is more than just keeping up with the times; it’s about creating a community. Through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, we can share Dealer Alerts, important news stories and fun pieces.

For the UCDA, social media is also a means of advocacy and education. By highlighting the benefits of purchasing from a reputable dealer, the UCDA reinforces the value proposition of its members. The advocacy is not only to shine a light on the value to consumers but also so members can be kept up to date with proposed regulations, and other important changes in the industry.

You can find the UCDA on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Please follow to find more current information.

https://www.facebook.com/UCDAOntario/

https://www.instagram.com/theucda/

https://twitter.com/UCDAOntario

https://www.linkedin.com/company/used-car-dealers-association-of-ontario/

Deadlines and Details

MTO SAFETY INSPECTIONS

Deadlines and Details

We have received an important reminder from the MTO as to deadlines and details on the move to fully digitize Ontario safety inspections by the end of 2024.

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is no longer accepting new Motor Vehicle Inspection Stations (MVIS) applications:

  • Effective June 30, 2024, the MTO has stopped filling orders for annual inspection or

semi-annual inspection certificates/stickers.

  • Stations will have until October 31, 2024, to order safety and structural certificates, in limited quantities.

MVIS facilities that have not entered the DriveON program must not:

  • Issue or affix annual inspection or semi-annual inspection certificates/stickers after July 31, 2024.
  • Issue a safety standards certificate after July 31, 2024, if the vehicle requires an annual or semi-annual inspection sticker.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: MVIS facilities are permitted to continue conducting annual and semi-annual inspections under the MVIS program until August 31, 2024. This is only permitted for MVIS facilities that have applied to the DriveON program before August 1, 2024, and have not received their DriveON equipment.

To qualify for refunds, MVIS facilities are required to return unused forms of annual inspection and semi-annual inspection certificates and stickers by September 30, 2024.

Unauthorized use or sale of expired MVIS certificates and stickers are subject to investigation by a Transportation Enforcement Officer. You could be charged for violating the Highway Traffic Act if you issue or affix these certificates and stickers beyond the end date, or your enrollment into DriveON could be revoked.

DriveON

As a reminder to MVIS facilities that perform annual, semi-annual or a combination of annual, semi-annual and light-duty/passenger vehicle inspections, please note that the deadline to apply to DriveON is July 31, 2024 to receive a complimentary tablet.

Current MVIS facilities that are eligible and have submitted their application to join the DriveON program are now able to order, receive, and initialize the inspection equipment and add technicians to their VICs ahead of the Ministry’s review and approval process.

The DriveON program went live on July 15, 2024, where stations that have been accepted into the program and have received their equipment can begin performing inspections under the DriveON program.

Current MVIS facilities that only perform light duty/passenger vehicle inspections will be notified when the DriveON portal will open to apply to DriveON. More information on this will be announced soon.

If you have any questions about the new DriveON program, you can contact the Vehicle

Inspection Centre Assistance Line toll free at 1-833-420-2110 or by email at VIC@driveonportal.com.

To read the full memo from the MTO please click here

NEW AMENDMENTS TO THE MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS ACT AND REGULATIONS​

NEW AMENDMENTS TO THE MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS ACT AND REGULATIONS

The UCDA recently received this email from the Ministry which oversees OMVIC. The Ministry is moving ahead, after consultations, with some specific amendments to the MVDA. There may be more to come, as the notice suggests, but for now these are the announced amendments:

As of July 1, 2024:

  • Motor vehicle dealers and salespersons (registrants) are no longer required to return their registration certificate when they cease to be registered.
  • Registrants have 30 days to provide warranty documents and payments to warranty sellers.
  • Registrants are required to include contact information that the registrant chooses (rather than a business telephone number) in advertisements, provided that the same contact information is published on OMVIC’s public database of registrants.
  • Cross-appointments between OMVIC’s Board of Directors and the Motor Vehicle Dealers Compensation Fund (MVDCF) Board of Trustees are prohibited.
  • Outdated provisions that are related to the transition from the repealed Motor Vehicle Dealers Act have been removed from the General regulation.

As of January 1, 2025:

  • The required Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) statements will be simplified and registrants will be required to include a general statement on CAMVAP in all contracts.

As of January 1, 2026:

  • Registrants will be required to successfully complete continuing education requirements that the registrar specifies prior to renewing their registration.

The amending regulation is now available on the Ontario e-Laws website.

The ministry is working to determine next steps on the remaining proposals outlined in its consultation paper and may bring forward additional regulatory and legislative proposals for government consideration in the future to support burden reduction for the sector and enhance consumer protection.

If you have any questions, please contact the ministry at MVDA@ontario.ca

MOTOR VEHICLE DEALER ACT REFORM

MOTOR VEHICLE DEALER ACT REFORM

A reminder that if you want to comment on the Ministry’s proposed changes to the MVDA, the deadline is May 21, 2024

As readers of Front Line and other UCDA messaging know, plans have been in the works for some time to open up the MVDA for the first reforms since the “new” Act was put into force in 2010.

The Ministry has reached the consultation phase of that planning, and we were informed just recently that a deadline of May 21st has been set for responses on a series of proposed reforms.

The UCDA is diligently working on our draft responses to the suggestions, and we plan to ask UCDA Members for their thoughts, probably by way of a survey, in the coming weeks. This will help us fine-tune our final submission to the Ministry.

Please stay tuned for that. Meanwhile, here is the note from the Ministry that oversees OMVIC operations:

The Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery is seeking feedback on a consultation paper exploring proposed changes to the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act, 2002 and its regulations.  

The ministry is consulting on proposals to: 

  • Reduce burden for registrants;
  • Protect consumers;
  • Enhance registrant compliance and improve regulatory efficiency; and
  • Address other sector-specific issues. 

You can find the consultation paper on Ontario’s regulatory registry: Modernizing the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act: Proposals to Reduce Burden, Improve Regulatory Efficiency, and Enhance Consumer Protection (ontariocanada.com). 

The deadline to submit feedback to MVDA@ontario.ca is May 21, 2024 by 11:59 p.m. The ministry will consider all feedback received.