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Curbsiders in Ontario: how to spot a fake private seller

By Don't Buy Blind · Updated October 30, 2026 · Sources listed below

A curbsider is an unlicensed dealer posing as a private seller. OMVIC estimates at least 25% of online "for sale by owner" listings are theirs. The biggest tells: the name on the ownership doesn't match their ID, they have several cars for sale, and the price is below market.

Why it matters

Curbsiders often sell cars with hidden problems: write-offs patched up for sale, rolled-back odometers, or undisclosed damage. Because it's a "private" sale, you don't get the protections you'd have buying from an OMVIC-registered dealer, and the seller is often impossible to find afterwards.

Warning signs

  • The car isn't registered in the seller's name, or was registered to them very recently. Check the UVIP's registration history.
  • The same phone number appears on several listings, or the seller mentions other cars.
  • The price is well below similar cars.
  • They want to meet in a parking lot, not at their home.
  • They won't let you take it for an inspection.
  • They want cash only, or a deposit before you see it.
  • The "private" sale happens at a repair shop or other business that isn't a registered dealer.

Check the VIN on the car you're looking at

See where it was built and its model year, then check its title history for salvage, flood, odometer and theft records.

Built in
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Model year
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Check digit
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0 of 17 characters

Opens EpicVIN in a new tab. You see a free summary before paying anything. Best for vehicles with US history. Paid link: we earn a commission if you buy a report, at no extra cost to you.

No VIN yet? Ask the seller to text it to you before you drive out. A bad history saves you the trip.
Open in Messages

How to protect yourself

  1. Ask to see the ownership and the seller's photo ID. The names must match.
  2. Get the UVIP and read the owner history.
  3. Run the VIN for accidents, brands and odometer records.
  4. Get a pre-purchase inspection at a mechanic you choose.
  5. Meet at the address on the seller's ID if you can.

How to report one

OMVIC takes anonymous tips at nocurbs@omvic.on.ca or 1-888-NOCURBS (662-8727). You can also check whether a business is a registered dealer on OMVIC's website.

Questions

Is buying from a curbsider illegal?

Selling cars for profit without OMVIC registration is illegal for the seller. As a buyer you're not breaking the law, but you lose dealer protections.

Am I protected if I buy privately?

Consumer protection under Ontario's dealer law applies to sales by registered dealers. Private sales aren't covered by OMVIC's compensation fund.

What's the quickest single check?

Compare the name on the ownership with the seller's photo ID. If they don't match, stop.

Sources

General information, not legal advice. Rules change, so check the official source before you rely on a detail.

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