The Best Way to Buy a Used Car in Ontario
The Best Way to Buy a Used Car in Ontario
Posted on July 5, 2024
Buying a used car should feel empowering — not overwhelming. But with so many options (and plenty of red flags to dodge), it can be hard to know where to start, what to trust, and what to look for. Whether you’re buying from a dealership or a private seller, this guide walks you through what matters most — so you can buy with clarity, not pressure. What you can spend on a car and what it will actually cost long-term aren’t always the same. Think beyond the sale price: include tax, licensing, insurance, regular maintenance, and any upcoming repairs. Having this full picture will keep you grounded during your search. This is one of the fastest ways to spot a red flag. A clean Carfax or CARPROOF should show ownership history, accident claims, service records, and whether the vehicle was ever written off or rebuilt. If a seller doesn’t offer this — ask why. And if they can’t provide one, walk away. Not all safety checks are equal. Ontario’s minimum standard allows cars with surface rust or worn components to pass. Look for vehicles that go beyond “bare legal” — like having tires with more than 50% tread, brakes above the legal minimum, and no leaks. If you're unsure what to look for, ask for a pre-purchase inspection from an independent mechanic — or go with sellers that openly share their inspection process. A good test drive is about more than comfort — it’s how you catch problems early. Listen for rattles, clunks, hesitation when accelerating, or vibrations at idle. Turn the music off and pay attention to how the car feels. Try low-speed turns, quick stops, and highway driving if possible. And here’s something a lot of buyers don’t know: not every unusual sound is a dealbreaker. Used cars often have quirks — especially if you're test driving before final reconditioning. At Deejay’s Auto, for example, you might hear a small rattle during a test drive. That’s because we encourage customers to test drive before the final safety work is done. We’ll walk you through exactly what’s being repaired before delivery, so there are no surprises. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s honesty, and making sure your car is safe, certified, and ready for real life. Selling a vehicle “as-is” isn’t always a red flag on its own — some just don’t want to handle certification themselves. But if they won’t let you get the vehicle inspected before purchase, that’s a dealbreaker. You deserve to know what you're buying. If they avoid your questions or rush the process, trust your gut — and remember: there are always other cars. In Ontario, certification isn’t always included in the price. Some sellers advertise a low price, only to add hundreds later for safety, paperwork, detailing, or admin fees. Always ask: “Is this the all-in price with everything included?” Also ask if it comes with: Financing can be a great tool — but the fine print matters. What’s the interest rate? Are there early payout penalties? Who’s the lender? Ask for a copy of your full loan breakdown before committing. And if your credit isn’t perfect — be cautious of “guaranteed approval” claims. Reputable dealers will still walk you through your options, but they won’t stick you with sky-high rates or predatory terms.
Whether you end up buying from us or not — this is how we do things.
Every vehicle goes through a 110-point inspection. Every one is certified. Every price we list includes safety and detailing — no surprises, no extra charges. We also provide a full Carfax, handle the paperwork, and offer financing through major Canadian lenders. And if you need help after the sale, our full-service garage is here for you.
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We’re not here to pressure. We’re here to help you feel confident when it’s time to buy.
1. Know Your Full Budget — Not Just the Sticker Price
2. Use the Vehicle History Report — It’s Not Optional
3. Look for Real Safety Inspection Standards
4. Test Drive with Intention (Not Fear)
5. Watch for Red Flags — But Ask the Right Questions
6. Understand What’s Included (and What Isn’t)
7. Financing? Ask These Before You Sign
Where Deejay’s Auto Fits Into All This