Advertisements that contain misleading information, or omit important facts, are illegal.

Examples of prohibited practices

For example, it is prohibited for an advertisement to:

  • use expressions such as "wholesaler,"auction sale," "liquidation, "factory returns," or "direct from the manufacturer." The use of those expressions is prohibited, unless the merchant can prove that they are true.
  • not indicate the total price of the vehicle;
  • use an illustration that does not accurately depict the vehicle whose price is advertised;
  • use the expression "cost price" or any other expression that would lead one to believe that the vehicle is sold at such a price, if it does not make reference to the price actually paid by the merchant to acquire the vehicle.
  • present information about the vehicle in an a manner that is unclear, illegible or incomprehensible. For example, this could mean using a font size that is too small to be read or using terms that limit the scope of an important piece of information in the message.

The vehicle sold must conform to the advertisement made about it. The merchant is bound by this advertising.

Availability of used vehicles

Only available used vehicles that are ready for sale can be advertised. The merchant must also indicate each vehicle's mileage in the advertising.

If there is a problem

If you find yourself in a situation in which these rules are not respected, you can contact the Office de la protection du consommateur.

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Last update : February 10, 2023

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The information contained on this page is presented in simple terms to make it easier to understand. It does not replace the texts of the laws and regulations.