Provincial Laws Raising Safety Standards for Used Vehicles

 
Safety standards when buying used cars is always high on any car buyer’s list.  The province is set to roll out even higher standards on July 1st. Here’s what to expect…
 
Major Changes
 
To make up for the rapid growth in technology, the Ministry of Transportation is set to do something they haven’t done in 42 years ; raise the standards of used vehicles.
 
While you may need a mechanical background to fully understand the details of the changes, you can rest assured that every part of the vehicle will be given a more thorough inspection going forward. In fact, all 10 sections of Ontario Regulation 611 – powertrain, suspension, brakes, steering, instruments and auxiliary equipment, lamps, electrical, body, tire and wheel and couple devices – have been improved to help better ensure safety.
 
There has also been a new section added to the regulation (Section 11 – Road Test) that requires technicians to “inspect and record” things such as steering, odometer and shock absorber functionality, etc. during the required road test.
 
Inspection reports will be provided to the consumer, giving them a detailed breakdown of the results.  Mechanics or business who fail to meet these new standards could face a $20,000 fine and lose their license.
 
Will Used Vehicle Inspections Cost More?
 
It’s unclear however it would make sense with the added labour. You really cannot put a price tag on the well-being of yourself and your loved ones. While it may end up costing a small chunk of change to pay for a more thorough inspection.
 
Advantages of Buying Used
 
Other than the increase in safety standards, there are still plenty of other reasons for buying used.
 
Typically, used vehicles are significantly less expensive than new ones. With such affordability and these additional safety stanbdards, it may bewell worth your consideration.
 
As mentioned earlier, car technology has grown significantly over the past of couple decades. As a result, many older vehicles are much better equipped to perform at a reasonable standard well into their lifespan. You’ll still need to maintain your car to keep it in good shape, but the chances of it breaking down on you are much lower.