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Local Pickup Buyer Demands Refund Then Ghosts – eBay Protection Advice Needed
“I sold a 48-inch walk-behind John Deere lawnmower (with Kawasaki engine) as a local pickup only sale. The buyer came and collected it in running condition. They are apparently novices with commercial walk-behind mowers and are now claiming it ‘didn’t start’ and that oil is leaking. This is confusing because if it truly wouldn’t start, oil wouldn’t be leaking from normal operation. I suspect either misuse, damage from improper strapping/securing on their trailer (the dipstick/fill tube on the side of the engine is vulnerable), or a false claim. They now want a full refund including several valuable accessories they’ve had for over a week.”
“Since it’s a local sale I didn’t ship it or pay for transport. I’ve agreed to accept the return, but the buyer has gone completely silent with no contact about arranging drop-off or return shipping despite the long drive involved. eBay’s automatic buyer protection guarantee is pushing for a refund on their end. What are the best next steps to get eBay to step in and protect the seller here? How should I contact support to open a case and request intervention? Other local-pickup sellers — what options or recourse do I have when the buyer disappears after demanding a refund? Any advice on holding eBay accountable in this situation would be appreciated.”
