Working from home has become the norm for most people in Ontario. With less need to perform the daily commute, you may wonder if you need more than one vehicle in your home. Due to this, there has been an increased interest in selling vehicles privately, bringing to light many questions surrounding private car sales and transferring ownership. Here is a breakdown of a used vehicle information package and why you need one before selling your used car.
What is a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP)?
A Used Vehicle Information Package (or UVIP) is a document required to sell a used vehicle in Ontario. The Government of Ontario offers it to help buyers purchase a used vehicle. UVIPs contain information about the car, including a vehicle description and Ontario history. As the seller, you must legally provide the buyer with the UVIP because it protects their rights.
What does a UVIP package contain?
The UVIP contains a complete history of the car in Ontario, including:
- Details about the vehicle, including year, make, model, color, body type, number of cylinders, and power
- Information about the vehicle is attached to the plate number
- Whether or not it has been damaged
- Vehicle registration history in Ontario, including all present and previous owners with their city of residence and odometer reading
- Vehicle lien information, i.e., if money is owed to a third party, a lien claimant has a right to the car or the amount owed from the current owner.
- The average wholesale value of the vehicle – the minimum value on which Retail Sales Tax (RST) will apply
- Retail Sales Tax (RST) information
- Condition of the vehicle
- Bill of sale section
- Driver suspensions
- The condition of the vehicle, including whether it’s mechanically unfit or has not received a Safety Standards Certificate
Does the UVIP show mileage?
The Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) in Ontario may include mileage if it has been reported during previous registrations or ownership transfers. However, the mileage is not guaranteed to be complete or accurate, depending on whether previous owners or service providers reported it.
What is the cost of a UVIP?
According to the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC), “private sellers of most motor vehicles must provide buyers with a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP). The UVIP costs $20 and is available from all Ministry of Transportation Driver and Vehicle License Issuing Offices.”
Various payment methods are accepted at the counter, and the package is provided within minutes. For online orders, payment is made by credit card, and the package will be mailed within five business days to the registered address or an alternate address specified during the ordering process.
How do I order a UVIP?
To order a used vehicle information package, you will need:
- The vehicle identification number (VIN) or the license plate number of the car
- Your Ontario driver’s license number or registrant identification number (RIN) and/or
- Your name and address
Where can I get the Used Vehicle Information Package?
You can get the package online or in person at any Service Ontario centre. It will be sent out to you by mail within five business days. You can also submit the order for the package online by visiting the Service Ontario website.
How long is the Used Vehicle Information Package valid?
The UVIP has no expiry date. You need an original and undamaged used vehicle information package to sell a vehicle privately. Details such as ownership history and lien status are accurate as of the date the package is issued, so it’s recommended to use a UVIP as close as possible to the time of a vehicle sale to ensure the information is up to date.
Can I sell a car without a safety in Ontario?
In Ontario, you can sell a car without a Safety Standards Certificate, but the vehicle must be sold as-is, meaning it may not be roadworthy or meet safety standards. Buyers cannot register or legally drive the car until they obtain a safety certificate.
Sellers must provide a Used Vehicle Information Package (UVIP) and clearly state the as-is condition in the bill of sale to protect themselves from liability. Selling without safety may reduce the vehicle’s value and limit potential buyers, as the buyer takes responsibility for necessary repairs.
How do I check my car history for free in Canada?
VIN Search on Provincial or Government Websites: Some provinces, like Ontario, offer free basic VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) searches through their official transportation or licensing websites. This can provide limited details like vehicle registration status and lien information.
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) VIN Check: The IBC provides a free VIN lookup tool to check if the vehicle has been reported as stolen or has a non-repairable status. Visit their website and enter the VIN for a quick check.
Vehicle Manufacturer Websites: Many manufacturers offer tools to check recalls or warranty status using the VIN. While not a complete history, it can reveal important safety-related information.
When don’t I need to have a Used Vehicle Information Package?
According to the Government of Ontario website, you can sell or transfer ownership of a vehicle without this document if:
- You are purchasing from a registered used vehicle dealer
- It is a sale between taxi license holders
- If the sale is between family members
- The vehicle was sold outside of Ontario
- It is a charitable donation to a licensed religious or benevolent organization
- The vehicle is sold or transferred to a hospital, local service board, municipality, school board, university, or college
- It is a prize for registered lotteries or raffles
What is a CARFAX report?
Have more questions? We’re here to help! Please get in touch with your isure broker to discuss your insurance questions regarding private car sales.
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