Toyota of Melbourne, Melbourne, FL - purchased a Prius with a personal check - told to sign request for credit - wouldn't release car until the check cleared

Complaints.com received the following consumer message on November 3, 2002:

From: RE: Toyota of Melbourne, Melbourne, FL - purchased a Prius with a personal check - told to sign request for credit - wouldn't release car until the check cleared

Toyota of Melbourne bullied me into signing a blank request for credit when I bought a Prius with a personal check.

Refused to hold the car I special ordered until the check cleared or to consult with USAA who handles my banking needs from San Antonio, Texas and has an 800 Number. Is this a legal method of doing business?