Yes, you can often cancel a new car order, but your ability to get your deposit back depends heavily on the stage of the process and the specific policies you agreed to. There’s no universal law, so your success hinges on the signed paperwork and state regulations.
The most critical factor is whether you have a binding purchase agreement. If you've signed a contract that finalizes the sale, canceling becomes much more difficult and may be treated like backing out of any completed sale. However, if you've only placed an order with a refundable deposit, you're in a much stronger position.
Your deposit's status is key. State laws vary significantly regarding deposit refunds. Some states, like California, have strong consumer protection laws that favor refunds if the car hasn't been delivered. Always get the deposit policy in writing before handing over any money. If the dealer has incurred specific, non-recoverable expenses—like installing custom accessories you requested—they may be entitled to deduct those costs.
If you need to cancel, communicate directly and professionally with the sales manager. Being polite and explaining your situation can often lead to a more cooperative resolution than making demands. If you believe your deposit is being withheld unfairly, you can escalate the issue by contacting your state's Attorney General’s office or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
| State | Typical Deposit Amount | Common Refund Conditions | Key Regulatory Body |
|---|
| California | $500 - $1000 | Full refund likely if car not delivered | California DMV |
| Texas | $500 - $2500 | Highly dependent on dealer contract | Texas DMV |
| Florida | $1000 - $5000 | Often non-refundable after order is processed | Florida Department of Highway Safety |
| New York | $500 - $2000 | Refundable if no custom modifications made | New York State DMV |
| Michigan | $500 - $1500 | Varies; "cooling-off" period may not apply | Michigan Secretary of State |
