Ethics and Professionalism Flashcards

A dealership salesperson discovers that a used vehicle on the lot has an undisclosed accident history. What is the ethical obligation under OMVIC standards?

Answer: Disclose the accident history to potential buyers

OMVIC's Code of Ethics requires registrants to proactively disclose all known material facts about a vehicle, including accident history, regardless of whether the buyer asks.

Under OMVIC's ethical standards, what does the principle of 'transparency' require when advertising a vehicle's price?

Answer: The advertised price must be the all-inclusive price the consumer will pay, excluding only HST and licensing

OMVIC requires that advertised prices be all-inclusive of all fees and charges except HST and licensing, so consumers know the true cost upfront.

A customer with limited English proficiency is negotiating a vehicle purchase. What ethical approach should a registrant take?

Answer: Ensure the customer fully understands all terms, offering translation assistance if needed

OMVIC's consumer protection mandate requires registrants to ensure informed consent, which means taking reasonable steps so all customers understand what they are agreeing to.

Which scenario best illustrates a conflict of interest that a registrant must disclose under OMVIC's Code of Ethics?

Answer: A salesperson selling a vehicle they personally own to a dealership customer

Selling a personally owned vehicle through the dealership creates a direct conflict of interest that must be disclosed to both the employer and the buyer.

A registrant suspects a colleague is engaging in fraudulent financing practices. What is the ethical course of action?

Answer: Report the suspected misconduct to management or OMVIC

OMVIC registrants have a professional duty to report suspected misconduct to management or OMVIC to protect consumers and the integrity of the industry.

A consumer asks a salesperson about the fuel efficiency of a vehicle. The salesperson is unsure of the exact figures. What is the ethical response?

Answer: Acknowledge uncertainty and direct the customer to the official EnerGuide rating or manufacturer specifications

Providing inaccurate information, even unintentionally, can mislead consumers; a registrant must direct buyers to verified sources when uncertain.

Under OMVIC's ethical framework, how should a registrant handle a customer who is clearly making a purchasing decision based on a misunderstanding about the vehicle's warranty coverage?

Answer: Correct the misunderstanding immediately and clearly before proceeding with the sale

Allowing a consumer to proceed with a purchase based on a known misunderstanding violates OMVIC's duty of honesty and fair dealing.