Buying a used car should be a simple, rewarding experience — not a stressful one. Unfortunately, many Quebec drivers discover after purchasing a vehicle that they’ve fallen victim to auto fraud: a rolled-back odometer, an undeclared accident, or a hidden lien.
The good news? Quebec law protects car buyers. If you’ve purchased a vehicle and suspect fraud or a hidden defect, there are clear steps you can take to protect your rights and recover your money.
1. Your Rights as a Consumer When Buying a Vehicle
1.1 Buying from a Dealer vs. a Private Seller
Your legal protection depends on who sold you the vehicle.
From a private seller: The LPC doesn’t apply, but you’re still covered by the Civil Code of Quebec, particularly for latent (hidden) defects.
1.2 Seller Obligations
Every seller — private or professional — must:
Deliver a vehicle free of liens or debts (check with theRDPRM).
Provide truthful information about mileage, condition, and accident history.
Avoid hiding major known defects.
1.3 Legal Warranties That Apply
Warranty of quality: The vehicle must function properly for normal use.
Durability warranty: The vehicle should last a reasonable amount of time considering its age and price. ⚠️ Note: “As-is” private sales may limit this protection — always have the car inspected before buying.
2. Identifying Auto Fraud or Scams
2.1 The Most Common Types of Fraud
Rolled-back odometers
Accidents not declared in the vehicle’s history
False or misleading advertising
Vehicles sold with liens or fake ownership documents
3. What to Do If You’re a Victim of Car Purchase Fraud
3.1 Step 1: Contact the Seller
Reach out to the seller first. Some issues can be settled amicably — such as a refund, repair, or vehicle return. Always keep written proof of your communications.
3.2 Step 2: Gather Evidence
Keep everything related to the sale:
Contract or invoice
Original ad
Mechanical reports
Text messages and emails
These documents are vital to demonstrate bad faith or misrepresentation.
3.3 Step 3: Report the Fraud
Depending on the situation, contact:
The Office de la protection du consommateur (OPC) for issues involving a business.
The SAAQ for matters related to registration or ownership fraud.
The police for criminal fraud.
3.4 Step 4: Take Legal Action
For claims under $15,000, you can file at Small Claims Court.
For larger cases, consult a lawyer or automotive mediator to guide you through the process.
4. Available Legal Remedies Based on the Issue
4.1 Hidden Defects (Latent Defects)
A latent defect is a hidden issue that existed before the sale and makes the car unsafe or significantly reduces its value.
To prove a hidden defect:
The defect must have existed prior to purchase.
It must be serious enough to affect normal use.
You must act within a reasonable time after discovering the issue.
Dealers must provide accurate and transparent information. If the ad or listing was misleading, you may file a complaint with the OPC and request a refund or cancellation of the sale.
4.3 Vehicle Non-Conformity
If the car you received doesn’t match the description (wrong model, falsified mileage, poor condition):
You may demand contract cancellation.
Or seek financial compensation for necessary repairs.
5. Tips to Avoid Auto Fraud in the Future
Check the RDPRM before signing any contract
Request a Carfax report for full accident and ownership history.
Have the car inspected by an independent mechanic.
💡 With Aukcio, each listing is pre-checked, and transactions are secure — drastically reducing the risk of fraud.
6. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What are my rights after buying a used car? You’re protected by a legal warranty and can claim compensation if the car has hidden defects.
How can I prove a hidden defect? Get an expert mechanical inspection and keep all purchase-related evidence.
Can I get a refund for a defective car? Yes. Depending on the situation, you can request a refund, repair, or cancellation of the sale.
Who should I contact in case of fraud?
OPC for consumer complaints
SAAQ for registration or ownership issues
Police for criminal matters
How long do I have to take action? Ideally, you should act within 30 to 60 days after discovering the problem.
Conclusion
Being a victim of auto purchase fraud is stressful — but you have rights. Thanks to Quebec’s strong consumer protection laws, and by following the proper legal steps, you can seek compensation or cancel the sale.
The key is to act quickly and document everything. And to prevent future issues, rely on secure and transparent platforms like Aukcio — designed to connect buyers and sellers safely across Quebec.
