Buying A Used Vehicle
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.
Curbsiders are everywhere and they are out to prey on innocent victims. The 1996 UCDA study found one individual with over 60 vehicles for sale. He was not a dealer.
If the vehicle is found to be stolen, then the buyer is out of luck. The law says that a stolen vehicle returns to the original owner. The buyer loses the whole purchase price, and would have to sue the seller, who by then may or may not be able to be found.
Odometer fraud is another key element in the curbsider being able to offer such a good deal. Some vehicles sold by curbsiders have had their odometers "turned back". This allows the curbsider to sell the vehicle for seemingly more than it is worth.
There is also the risk of liens being registered against the vehicle. Any liens that are found to be registered against the vehicle would then be the responsibility of the new owner ... they would have to either pay out the lien, or face repossession of the vehicle by the lien holder.
The vehicle may have had prior accident damage, and the buyer would have little or no recourse.
Finally, the "good deal" may not be so good. The Ministry of Transportation requires that provincial sales tax be paid on the average wholesale value, or the actual purchase price, whichever is higher. This could eat up any perceived savings.
Article from the UCDA.
Used Car Classifieds 
Ontario Canada
