Can the car purchase deposit be refunded?
3 Answers
Generally, the deposit paid for a car purchase cannot be refunded. If the buyer breaches the contract, the deposit is non-refundable. However, if the car seller breaches the contract, the buyer can request double the deposit as compensation or demand reimbursement for losses along with the refund of the deposit. The parties involved may agree that one party provides a deposit to the other as a guarantee for the debt. Below is relevant information: Regulation: According to Article 587 of China's newly implemented "Civil Code": If the debtor fulfills the debt, the deposit shall be offset against the price or refunded. If the party paying the deposit fails to fulfill the debt or does so in a manner inconsistent with the agreement, thereby making it impossible to achieve the purpose of the contract, they have no right to request a refund of the deposit. Reason: Once a car purchase contract is signed with a 4S store and a deposit is paid, regardless of whether the buyer later decides not to purchase the car or wants to buy a different model or configuration, the deposit cannot be refunded. This is because such actions constitute a unilateral breach of contract, and the 4S store has the right not to return the deposit.
I previously paid a deposit for a car purchase, but later found out the car price had increased and wanted a refund. However, the dealer said the deposit was non-refundable unless the contract specified refund conditions. So now I strongly emphasize reviewing the contract details before paying a deposit, preferably with refund terms clearly written in black and white. When buying a car, a deposit usually confirms the purchase intent; if neither party breaches the contract, the deposit is generally non-refundable. However, under special circumstances, such as the dealer failing to deliver the car on time or the car having quality issues, consumers have the right to request a refund. I’ve encountered cases where friends successfully reclaimed their deposits through consumer association mediation. I recommend keeping receipts and relevant evidence, as clear communication upfront can save a lot of trouble.
As someone who often helps family members with car purchases, I think the deposit issue depends on the situation. Normally, once a deposit is paid, don't expect a refund unless the dealer agrees or there's a contract loophole. I recommend asking the salesperson directly before paying the deposit whether specific terms can be written into the contract, such as delivery time or vehicle condition guarantees, to make negotiations easier if issues arise. Many 4S stores have flexible policies, and partial refunds can be negotiated. I've personally tried using small deposits to test a dealer's sincerity—paying a few thousand yuan first allows for more relaxed negotiations. Non-refundable deposits are meant to ensure transaction stability, but don't pay too much; if circumstances change, you'll minimize losses.
