Inquiry Against "Final Coat" Electronic Anti-Corrosion Device Discontinued on June 18, 2004

This Inquiry was initiated on April 22, 2002, following complaints alleging deceptive representations containing false and misleading claims as to the efficacy and performance of Canadian Auto Preservation Inc.'s (CAP) "Final Coat" electronic anti-corrosion device. It was claimed that the "Final Coat" device could inhibit corrosion on the entire surface of a new or pre-owned vehicle.

Under subsections 74.01(1)(a) and (b) of the Competition Act, reviewable conduct is engaged in when a person either makes a representation to the public that is materially false or misleading or makes a representation as to the performance or the efficacy of a product that is not based on adequate and proper testing. It is the duty of the advertiser to ensure the tests support the claims. At the commencement of the Inquiry, it was the Bureau's opinion that the tests provided by CAP were not sufficient to support the claims made about the "Final Coat" device.

At the Bureau's request, CAP performed additional tests on the device which were subsequently deemed by the Bureau to be adequate and proper. As a result of these additional test results, the Inquiry was discontinued on June 18, 2004.

The Competition Bureau is an enforcement agency and does not approve or endorse products, therefore the discontinuance of this Inquiry does not constitute an approval.

(3001543)