Have you heard about the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP)? It’s a cross-Canada program designed to help you resolve disputes with a manufacturer about defects in your vehicle’s assembly or materials, or how the manufacturer is applying or administering a new vehicle warranty.

According to the CAMVAP website, disputes are resolved through binding arbitration. This means that both parties (the consumer and the manufacturer) agree to accept the decision of an impartial third-party arbitrator.

It’s important to know what the CAMVAP arbitrator can and cannot do. For example, an arbitrator can order that the manufacturer repair your vehicle at its expense, but it cannot order a warranty extension. Also, please note that FCA Canada Ltd. (Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM trucks) does not participate in CAMVAP’s program, therefore claims for FCA will not be accepted. Full details about the CAMPVAP process, including information about whether or not you qualify, can be accessed at www.camvap.ca.

The Vehicle Sales Authority (the provincial body that oversees all licensed franchise and independent motor vehicle dealerships in BC, as well as the salespeople employed at those dealers) offers consumer information related to vehicles. While it doesn’t have authority over manufacturers, their website has a lit of resources that provides possible avenues for help when you are in a dispute with your car manufacturer.

And finally, don’t forget to check out our other posts related to vehicles.

ADDITIONAL READING:

Can I return a new car?
Can you spot a shady used car deal?
Watch out for curbers!
Getting your first car? Read this before you sign the sales slip
Buying a used car: common questions about damage declarations