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Are Car Appraisals Free? Here’s What Ontario Drivers Need to Know



At Golden Wheels Inc., one of the most common questions we hear is: Are car appraisals free? Whether you're gifting a car to a family member, registering an older vehicle, or transferring ownership, the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) often requires a car appraisal. But while the service isn’t free, it plays a vital role in ensuring you're taxed fairly and your paperwork is accepted without issue.


What Is a Car Appraisal?

A car appraisal is a professional assessment that determines a vehicle's fair market value. In Ontario, it's commonly required when the car in question is older, modified, gifted, or not listed in the Ministry’s Red Book. Appraisals are also used in insurance claims, estate settlements, and private sales.

At Golden Wheels Inc., our certified appraisers provide accurate, legally recognized valuations for a wide range of vehicles—from daily drivers to collector cars.


What Is an MTO Appraisal?

An MTO appraisal refers specifically to the documentation required by the Ministry of Transportation when transferring a vehicle. This is especially important in scenarios where the vehicle is:

  • Over 20 years old

  • A gift between family members

  • Imported from another province or country

  • A classic or custom-built car

  • Not listed in the standard MTO valuation database

When you go to ServiceOntario to complete a transfer, the MTO uses your appraisal to calculate Retail Sales Tax (RST). Without a valid appraisal, you may be taxed at a higher rate based on outdated or inaccurate values.


Are Car Appraisals Free?

No, car appraisals are not free. However, they are reasonably priced and well worth the investment.

At Golden Wheels Inc., we offer certified MTO car appraisals starting at $80 and ranging up to $100, depending on your location and vehicle type. This includes:

  • On-site or remote evaluation

  • Certified documentation accepted by ServiceOntario

  • A fast turnaround (often within 24–48 hours)

  • Friendly support from experienced, licensed appraisers


While free online tools like Kelley Blue Book or Canadian Black Book can provide general value ranges, they are not accepted by the MTO. Only a certified appraisal can be used to complete an ownership transfer and pay the appropriate sales tax.


Why Work With Golden Wheels Inc.?

We specialize in MTO-approved car appraisals that are fast, affordable, and accurate. Our team has years of experience in the automotive and appraisal industry, and we’ve completed thousands of vehicle valuations across Ontario.


Each appraisal includes:

  • Vehicle make, model, year, and VIN

  • Odometer reading and condition report

  • Current fair market value

  • Official signature and appraiser registration number


We make the process easy so you can complete your ownership transfer without delays or extra taxes.


Get a Certified Appraisal Today

While car appraisals aren’t free, they are a small investment that can save you money in the long run and help you avoid hassles at the MTO. Golden Wheels Inc. is proud to provide certified MTO car appraisals with fast service and competitive pricing across Ontario.

 
 
 

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