Used vehicle buyer’s guide

In Saskatchewan, all retail sales are final. Unless clearly stated by the seller verbally or in writing, there is no cancellation period for returning a privately sold vehicle.

Vehicles purchased from licensed automobile dealers are subject to statutory warranties, as well as any extended or third party warranties.

Buyer beware

When buying a used vehicle, it’s important to be aware and prepared.

Use common sense

• If the deal is too good to be true, it probably is!
• Take the vehicle for a test drive.
• Avoid buying online unless vehicle purchase is conditional upon inspection and satisfactory test drive.
• Always get the seller’s home address or place of business and view the vehicle at that location. Be cautious if the seller seems too eager to bring the vehicle to you or to make the deal in a different location, such as a mall parking lot.
• Insist on seeing the current vehicle registration in the seller’s name.
• Pick the vehicle up in person. Do not accept delivery of a private sale.
• Pay by certified cheque made out to only the registered owner of the vehicle.

Do your research

• Check whether the vehicle is eligible for registration in Saskatchewan by requesting a Cross-Canada VIN Search of the vehicle identification number (VIN). You can’t register a vehicle that has been designated as “ineligible for registration” in Saskatchewan or any other jurisdictions.
• Learn about the vehicle’s history in Saskatchewan by conducting a Saskatchewan Damage Claims History Search.
• Get a safety, structural and drive train inspection done by a trusted mechanic before you buy the vehicle.
• Collect and confirm the name, address and telephone number of the seller for future contact.
• Ask the seller for copies of repair receipts to see how long the seller has owned the vehicle and what repairs have been made. Follow up with the repair facility if you doubt the receipts.
• Collect the “Transfer of Ownership” or “Vehicle Identification Certificate” attached to the seller’s registration certificate, along with a bill of sale.
• Check for liens against the vehicle by contacting Information Services Corporation at 1-866-275-4721.
• Check with a dealer representative or the original equipment manufacturer to confirm all recall notices have been completed.
• If you’re considering a late model vehicle, contact a dealer or the manufacturer to determine if any warranty is still valid.

For further information, contact the Consumer Protection Branch toll-free at 1-888-374-4636 (Saskatchewan inquiries).