Arbitration plan can help solve car problems

Walter Noel, Minister responsible for consumer affairs, advises consumers of an avenue to help resolve car problems.

Consumers who are having recurring problems with vehicle manufacturing defects or how manufacturers implement new vehicle warranties can call upon the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP) for assistance.

CAMVAP is an alternative to the courts and it�s free to use. The whole process normally takes between 60 and 70 days. Most new and used domestic and imported passenger cars, light trucks, sport utility vehicles, vans and multi-purpose passenger vehicles that are purchased or leased in Canada are covered by CAMVAP.

Consumers are urged to try this simple checklist. If they can answer yes to each of these questions, they might be eligible for assistance.

• Is your vehicle from either the current or the previous four model years and has travelled less than 160,000 kilometers?
• Is your dispute with the manufacturer about a manufacturing defect or how the manufacturer is implementing the new vehicle warranty?
• Is your vehicle used primarily for your personal or family use?
• Are you a resident of Canada and was your vehicle originally purchased from one of the manufacturers� dealers in Canada?
• Have you followed the manufacturer�s dispute resolution process and have you given the dealer and the manufacturer a reasonable number of opportunities to resolve the problems?

CAMVAP is an arbitration program. Like court, each side presents a case and can question the other side. The independent and neutral arbitrator listens to the evidence from both sides and then makes a decision that is binding on both the consumer and the manufacturer.

The arbitrator can award:

• The manufacturer to buy-back your vehicle. This award can only be made if your vehicle has travelled less than 60,000 kilometers and has been in service for no more than 36 months at the time of the arbitration hearing.
• Repairs to your vehicle done at the manufacturer�s expense.
• Reimbursement for repairs that you have already had done.
• Out of pocket payments up to $500 for taxis, towing, accommodation or diagnostic fees related to the problems with your vehicle
• No liability on the manufacturer with respect to the consumer�s claim.

Consumers can check out CAMVAP�s website at www.camvap.ca. They can also start the start the application process on line or call CAMVAP at 1-800-207-0685.

Media contact: Winston Morris, Assistant Deputy Minister Consumer and Commercial Affairs (709) 729-2570 or Rick Callahan, Director of Communications, (709) 729-4860.

200 07 26                                 12:40 p.m.