Buying a car requires among other things, patience, a lot of research, a comfortable pair of shoes for shopping around and the ability to say “no.”

The ability to say “no” is the hardest part for some people, much to their regret. A case in point: a local consumer called to ask if he had the right to change his mind after signing a contract to purchase a car, trading in his old vehicle, and driving the new car home.

The short answer is no, in most cases. The long answer is that many people believe the federal cooling-off rule gives them the right to cancel a new car contract. This law actually applies only to door-to-door sales and a few other occasions, but is very limited in its use. It does not give the customer the right to cancel a signed contract for a new car.

Also, any promises by a car salesperson that the vehicle may be returned should be in writing on the purchase agreement. Verbal promises are worthless.