Regulator shuts down used car dealer

EDMONTON, Nov. 16, 2015 /CNW/ - The Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council was successful in obtaining a court order directing Miks Motors Inc., an Edmonton used car dealer, to stop selling vehicles.

On Tuesday a Court of Queen's Bench Justice ordered the owner, Dennis Feldman, to immediately stop operating in the automotive industry. He was also ordered to shutdown his website by Nov. 13, 2015.

AMVIC cancelled Miks Motors' business licence in July because it was operating contrary to the Fair Trading Act and regulations.  AMVIC also issued a director's order to immediately stop selling. Miks Motors continued to sell so AMVIC sought a court order.   

"The vast majority of businesses comply with director's orders or business cancellations," John Bachinski, president and CEO of AMVIC said. "This is the first time we have had to take this step but we did so to protect consumers."

It is against the law to sell vehicles in Alberta without the proper AMVIC licence. Those who ignore the law are considered curbers. People who buy from curbers cannot access AMVIC's consumer compensation fund.

"Consumer protection is paramount," John Bachinski, president and CEO of AMVIC said. "Our mandate is to protect consumers and we take that seriously."

Last month AMVIC warned consumers not to buy from Miks Motors. AMVIC posts all of its licence cancellations and administrative action on its website, amvic.org, so consumers can research a business before entering into a transaction.   

If you suspect a curber you should steer clear and report it to AMVIC.

About AMVIC: The Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC) is a regulatory organization authorized by the Minister of Service Alberta to enforce and administer the following legislation in relation to automotive business: the Fair Trading Act; the Automotive Business Regulation; the Cost of Credit Disclosure Regulation, and the Internet Sales Contract Regulation. AMVIC's mandate is to provide consumer protection in Alberta's motor vehicle industry. AMVIC publishes valuable information and tips for consumers, businesses and salespeople at amvic.org.

SOURCE Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC)

Media inquiries may be directed to: Laura Lowe, Communications and Education Manager, Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council, 780-468-0476, [email protected]