If no written contract was signed, what are customers entitled to upon giving a deposit or trade-in to a dealer?

When a customer gives a deposit or trade-in to a dealer and no written contract has been signed, the customer is entitled to demand the return of their deposit or trade-in. This is because, without a written agreement that outlines the terms of the transaction, the dealer has not completed the sale and does not have any legal grounds to retain the deposit or the trade-in. The nature of informal agreements and deposits generally indicates that the customer retains rights to their assets until a formalized contract is in place to finalize the terms of the sale.

This entitlement reflects a fundamental principle of consumer protection, ensuring that customers are not left without recourse in situations where a formal agreement has not been reached. It emphasizes the importance of written contracts in establishing clear obligations and expectations for both parties involved in a transaction.