In a growing uproar, Ontario consumers are demanding action as more and more issues arise with new vehicles. One man's harrowing experience with a faulty Ford pickup truck has ignited calls for a formal Lemon Law that could shield buyers from lemon vehicles.

‘My Truck is a Total Lemon!’

Mark Mitchell's nightmare began when he picked up his leased 2024 Ford F-150 from a Scarborough dealership. What should have been a prideful driving moment quickly turned into chaos when, just weeks later, the engine began to fail, lights flickered on the dashboard, and the truck started to shake violently. The problems were severe enough that Ford replaced his engine at no charge.

The Cycle of Defects Continues

However, after only five kilometers of driving post-repair, the engine failed yet again. Despite a series of repairs, including a third catastrophic malfunction just this past June, Mitchell’s plight continues. "I don't want this truck anymore," he declared, exasperated. Though Ford promised a new vehicle, that promise remains unfulfilled.

Broken Promises and Ongoing Questions

After receiving his truck back just this month, Mitchell found it leaking oil in his driveway—a fresh insult to injury as his vehicle spent nine months at the dealership throughout his two-year lease. Ford Canada declined to comment on the specifics of Mitchell’s ongoing issues but stated they were working on a resolution.

An Unforgiving Consumer Landscape

Mitchell’s situation highlights a troubling reality for many Ontario drivers. Currently, the only recourse is the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Program (CAMVAP), which has sparked criticism for its slow and often ineffective processes. While CAMVAP has reported over $2.7 million in vehicle buybacks for 2024, consumer advocates argue that these statistics are misleading.

CAMVAP: A System in Need of Reform?

While CAMVAP claims to offer a quick resolution, it can often leave consumers like Mitchell feeling powerless, as they must provide substantial proof of ongoing defects to proceed. "It's an exhausting and arduous process," shared Shari Prymak of Car Help Canada, who argues that the program fails to deliver timely or satisfying outcomes.

Is a Lemon Law the Answer?

With Quebec as the only province boasting a dedicated lemon law, advocates are pushing for Ontario to follow suit. Such legislation could empower consumers against automakers, mandating buybacks and compensation when vehicles consistently fail. Prymak is adamant: "These laws have worked in the U.S.—it's time for Ontario to catch up!"

What Comes Next?

While Ontario currently waits to see how Quebec's new laws operate in practice, advocates like Prymak are conducting surveys and gathering data to present to the government. As Mitchell continues his struggle for a resolution, he remains skeptical about CAMVAP's effectiveness. “There is no law that protects the consumer here,

he remarked, starkly aware of the power imbalance between buyers and manufacturers.

Hope Remains

Despite the challenges, advocates remain hopeful. "We’re gearing up to pitch the government hard in the coming year," said Prymak. As Ontario navigates the turmoil of consumer vehicle issues, one thing remains clear: the demand for a Lemon Law is echoing louder than ever!