I assume when you order a 6 speed, you and the dealer have worked out the deal, and put down a deposit. My question is: In what circumstances can we NOT get the deposit back? Saleman told me if I don't like what I see we can make arrangements. It makes sense for example I don't like the feel of the manual, or it's performance etc.
Can I say I can pretty much back out of the deal?

 

Did you sign some type of aggreement? It varies by dealer, but if you don't want the car, some dealers will not return the deposit, some dealers will. In most cases, they have no legal obligations to return it if you just back out, although many will for PR reasons. In a couple states, there are laws governing deposts that make it easier to get back money.

 

Before I signed the paper I asked this is subject to satisfaction of the car. Didn't sign anything to do with the lease, but the purchase price of the car. On the "paper" it stated the lease is 36 months, my lease return car will be $xx,xxx, with ownering having the option of selling it privately. Also when I signed the paper it stated I still have to make my decision what color to get.

So the paper isn't really firm, and it make sense since I haven't tried the 6 speed that signature isn't a binding contract.

I think others who 'order' they car are in the same situation. The deposit is to show you are interested but definitely you can't have a binding contract when the car itself isn't there, or the VIN isn't on the contract.

I thought I ask just to see what other say. My friend at the dealership said if I don't like it then no big deal.

 

If you know someone at the dealership, or have done business with them before, or they are trustworthy, you have no problem. Most dealers will let you get out with your money back, but many will not, and in many states there is no legal recorse to get your money back, so buys should be careful. In your case, one would have to look at the exact wording of the contract to determine this. Usually, the "subject to satisfacton" items in the contract only over a legal escape if there are defects in the car when it arrives, and still sometimes allow for acceptable repair.