Example reports

You sent: a quote for $1,150 to replace the timing belt and water pump.

• The work is due: your car is past the manufacturer's recommended interval for the timing belt.
• Replacing the water pump at the same time is standard practice and saves you paying the same labour twice.
• Parts and labour hours are in line with what shops in your area charge for this job.

Next: book it with confidence. Fair isn't final, so if you'd like, we'll ask the shop for a courtesy discount. That's included in your $79.

You sent: a written estimate for $1,180 and a final bill for $1,465.

• The bill is 24% over the estimate. Ontario caps it at 10%, so the most they can charge is $1,298.
• Cabin filter and wiper blades ($74) weren't on the estimate and you didn't approve them.

Next: take the findings to the shop yourself, or have us handle it for $249 (less your $79).

You sent: the online ad ($27,990) and your bill of sale.

• A $799 admin fee was added. Ontario requires the advertised price to include every fee except HST and licensing.
• Nitrogen ($199), etching ($399) and a protection package ($1,295) are optional products. You can say no.

Not signed yet? Send it before you sign. Ontario has no cooling-off period.

You sent: the lease-end inspection bill for $2,140 and your lease agreement.

• Bumper scuff ($650): your lease's wear guide allows scratches under a set size. Ask for the inspection photos and measurements.
• Tire charge ($480): ask for the tread readings. If the tires meet the lease's minimum, it shouldn't apply.
• The kilometre overage matches your contract. That part looks fair.

Next: take the findings to the shop yourself, or have us handle it for $249 (less your $79).

You sent: the deal sheet, before signing. $598 a month for 84 months at 9.99%.

• A $2,400 extended warranty and $1,100 of gap coverage are rolled into the loan, so you'd pay interest on them for 7 years.
• The total you'd pay over the loan is shown below the payment, in small print. It's about $50,200.
• Ask whether a shorter term or a lower rate is available before you sign.

Next: decide with the facts, or have us negotiate the deal for $349 (less your $79).

You sent: the insurer's settlement offer of $18,400.

• Comparable Civics with similar kilometres and trim are listed at $20,900 to $22,500.
• Ask how they valued your car, and which comparables and options they used.
• Don't sign the release yet. Once you sign, the claim is usually closed.

Next: case coaching ($149) walks you through it step by step. For full negotiation, we'll point you to a licensed public adjuster.

You sent: the repossession notice and your payment history.

• Your payments add up to about 70% of the total owing. In Ontario, once you've paid two-thirds, the car can't be seized without a court order. Ask whether one was obtained.
• The $1,350 in towing and storage charges should be itemized. Ask for the breakdown.
• Deadlines matter here. Don't wait.

Next: case coaching ($149), then our partner paralegal if it needs to go further.