Can I cancel my new car order and get my deposit back?

I ordered a new car and paid a £500 deposit over the phone end of March 24. At the time was living 200 miles from the dealer. Car is not yet built and is not scheduled for build until August. I have only subsequently visited the dealer in person to advise a change of address. I have not signed any forms on their premises.

I now wish to cancel the order. What are my rights in relation to return of the £500 deposit?

Asked on 6 June 2024 by perusal

Answered by David Ross
The terms and conditions of your agreement should indicate whether or not the deposit is refundable in the event of cancellation, but as a general rule a deposit implies a contract with the seller and there is no automatic right to a refund. Distance selling regulations, where a sale is made via the Internet or over the phone, provide a 14-day cooling off period where you can cancel an order without penalty, but given you placed the order in March this period will have expired.
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