new car deposit refundable?

steverogers_2

Hi all,

Two weeks ago I bought a new car from audi and they asked for a £1000 deposit, which I paid. My situation has changed and I have to cancel the order. The car was being manufactured anyway, so it's not being made to order.

The reverse of the order form says the deposit is non-refundable, but how can they justify keeping £1000? Surely there are only small admin fees to cover? The car wont be ready until end of Feb, so there's plenty of time for them to sell it again!

Just wondering where I stand legally, because they've still not told me if I'll get any of it back!

Many thanks for any help,

Steve

Exemplar

Legally you signed a piece of paper that states non-refundable. However a very nice genuine truthful chat with the dealership may result in this being refunded. Having worked in the trade it all depends on how you present yourselves to them. I would go in and do it face to face and if agreed ask for the refund there and then (if paid on card?). I lose count of the times we have said yes to people only to see them driving another car! also I lose count of the number of people we have said no to because of attitude.

Lemonade_Pockets

+1

If Audi work the same way most MFR's work the dealer will now have to take your cancelled order onto stock. This will probably mean the incur interest charges (depending on their stocking policy). As well as relying on someone who wants the same spec colour etc as you to come in and buy it. The salesman has also wasted his time, as has the sales manager, as has the admin department etc etc.

I'm not saying this all equals £1000 although i could easily make a list for you that does (and it would stand up in court) but i think people underestimate the amount of ballache buyers remorse causes.

Having had that little rant a frank conversation is the best way forward you obviously have a good reason otherwise you wouldn't risk loosing a £1000 deposit. They are human after all.

gfrdl

Agreed with the above recommendations - I did the same thing last year.
There was something in the purchase paperwork that the deposit was non-refundable.
I spoke openly with the salesman that my situation had changed meaning the car purchase was not possible. He spoke to his bosses and I got my £500 deposit back shortly afterwards

NickWarren_2

If you do try to get it back and they don't seem very keen on giving it, It wouldn't do any harm to offer to let them keep some of it for their time and the inconvenience.

I know legally they don't have to give it back as stated in the paperwork non-refundable etc, But it might just help to sway them.