The Ontario Safety Standards Certificate

Is the Ontario Safety Standards Certificate also a warranty?

NO! When it comes to buying a used vehicle, the Safety Standards Certificate (SSC) is usually offered as part of the sale; Presley’s Auto Showcase offers both a Safety certificate and e-test. People however think it is a warranty also from the dealership.

MTO Definition

According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, “A Safety Standards Certificate is a document that certifies a vehicle’s fitness to be on the road at the time of inspection.”

A Safety Standards Certificate is valid for 36 days after the inspection. However, the certificate is not a guarantee or warranty that the vehicle will stay fit for any period. The Certificate process was designed to ensure that any car changing hands must possess the minimum safety requirements to drive on the road.

What is covered in the Safety inspection?

The inspection covers numerous components of the vehicle, each related to safe operation. For example these are some of the components it covers:

  • Tires
  • Brakes
  • Steering
  • Lights
  • Wipers
  • Locks

You can see a detailed list of the components covered in the inspection (see document at the end)

When is the SSC needed?

A Safety Standards Certificate is required in the case of any vehicle changing hands to a new owner. This step is required before the new owners licence plate can be attached. The car must receive a Certificate before it can be plated (receive new plates from the Ministry of Transportation).

Who performs the safety inspection?

A licensed mechanic must carry out all SSC inspections. Presleys Auto Showcase has a licensed mechanic and License service centre on site.

What is the 36-day limit all about?

As soon as the vehicle passes the SSC inspection, there are 36 days in which it can be sold and plated to the new owner. If 36 days have gone by and the car has not been transferred with plates then it must be re-inspected.

Does the SSC mean the car has a 36-day warranty?

Absolutely not. Many people are confused on this point. Even though the vehicle has successfully passed the inspection, things can still happen. A rim could be bent. A bulb could burn out, a line or exhaust gasket could give out.

Does the Certificate cover anything else?

No. The MTO states, “An SSC is not a warranty or guarantee on the general condition of the vehicle. The SSC only certifies that on the date it was issued, the vehicle met the minimum safety standards as set down by Regulation 611 of Ontarios Highway Traffic Act (HTA).” Presley’s Auto Showcase recommends if you are not sure have your own or an independent mechanic inspect it.

What about the Emissions Test?

This is also a completely different issue. Presley’s Auto Showcase includes the e-test (when applicable) with every purchase.

What if I believe my SSC inspection was not done properly?

Go back to your dealer and discuss the problem chances are they’ll be eager to help settle it. Presleys Auto Showcase welcomes our customers to come back and discuss any components they feel were overlooked. If you are still concerned the ministry of transportation can help or UCDA offers mediation between consumers and car dealers Presley’s Auto Showcase is an A+ member of the Better Business Bureau.

Presley’s Auto Showcase offers a 6 month/6,000 km Transmission and Engine with Seals and gaskets warranty through peopleschoice warranty with every car sold ** This is above and beyond the Safety Certificate.

**some restrictions apply ask your salesman for details** additional info can be found on www.ucda.ca