Privacy Policy
Last Updated: January 2026 | Effective Date: January 2026
Introduction
AskAutoDoctor ("we", "our", or "us") operates a digital platform connecting vehicle owners with automotive mechanics and repair workshops across Canada. We are committed to protecting your personal information and your right to privacy.
This Privacy Policy explains:
- What personal information we collect
- Why we collect it
- How we use it
- Who we share it with
- Your rights regarding your personal information
By using AskAutoDoctor, you consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of your personal information as described in this Privacy Policy.
1. Information We Collect
1.1 Personal Information You Provide
Account Information:
- Full name, email address, phone number
- Password (encrypted)
- Profile photo (optional)
Vehicle Information:
- Make, model, year, VIN
- Mileage and service history
- Photos of your vehicle (if uploaded)
Payment Information:
Payment is processed by Stripe Inc. (PCI-DSS Level 1 compliant)
- We store only: customer ID, payment intent IDs, transaction history
- We DO NOT store credit card numbers, CVV, or banking credentials
Session Information:
- Chat transcripts and session messages
- Notes, tags, and files you upload during a session
Sessions are not recorded. Chat transcripts and files you share may be stored to deliver the service, improve quality, and support disputes.
1.2 Information We Collect Automatically
We collect usage data and location information when you use our platform:
- Device type, browser, IP address
- GPS coordinates when you search for mechanics or request mobile service
- Session cookies (essential) and analytics cookies (can opt out)
2. How We Use Your Information
Service Fulfillment (PIPEDA)
- Match you with nearby mechanics and workshops
- Facilitate diagnostic sessions (video, chat)
- Process payments securely
- Provide customer support
Platform Improvement
- Analyze usage patterns to improve features
- Develop new features based on user needs
- Monitor platform performance
Communications
Transactional (you cannot opt out):
- Booking confirmations, session reminders, payment receipts
- Security alerts and important account updates
Marketing (you can opt out anytime):
- Newsletter with automotive tips
- New feature announcements and special promotions
3. How We Share Your Information
With Mechanics & Workshops
When you book a diagnostic session, we share with the assigned mechanic:
- Your name, phone number, email
- Your vehicle information
- Your location (city, postal code, or exact address if mobile service)
- Photos/videos and notes you provided
Mechanics and workshops cannot use your information for their own marketing without your separate consent.
With Payment Processors
Stripe Inc. processes all payments. See their privacy policy at:stripe.com/privacy
For Legal Reasons
We may disclose your information when required by law:
- In response to subpoenas or court orders
- To comply with tax reporting obligations (CRA)
- To report suspected fraud to authorities
4. Data Retention
| Data Type | Retention Period |
|---|---|
| Account information | While account is active or until deletion request is processed |
| Session data (chat transcripts, notes, uploads) | Up to 2 years, then anonymized |
| Payment records | 7 years (CRA requirement) |
| Deletion requests | Processed on request, with legal retention where required |
Sessions are not recorded. Chat transcripts and files you share may be stored to deliver the service, improve quality, and support disputes.
5. Your Privacy Rights (PIPEDA)
Under Canadian federal privacy law (PIPEDA), you have the following rights:
Right to Access
Request a copy of all personal information we hold about you
Right to Correction
Request correction of inaccurate or incomplete information
Right to Deletion
Request deletion of your personal information (subject to legal exceptions)
Right to Withdraw Consent
Unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time
How to Exercise Your Rights
Visit your account settings or contact us at:
privacy@askautodoctor.com
We will respond within 30 days as required by PIPEDA
5.5 Workshop Analytics
Partner workshops may access performance analytics based on their own business data. These analytics use only aggregated, anonymized metrics. No customer personal information, vehicle details, or identifying data is used in workshop analytics.
Analytics insights are informational only and do not constitute professional advice.
7. Contact Information
Privacy Officer
AskAutoDoctor
Canada
Email: privacy@askautodoctor.com
General Support: support@askautodoctor.com
Response Time: We will respond to all privacy requests within 30 days as required by PIPEDA
8. File a Privacy Complaint
If you believe we have mishandled your personal information, you have the right to file a complaint with:
9. Governing Law
This Privacy Policy is governed by the laws of Canada, including:
- Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)
- Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL)
- Applicable provincial consumer protection laws
Have questions about this privacy policy?
Contact Us