How far will Auto Protection Policy go?

[kwakkid]

I won a bid on an old car from an auction dealer.

It is advertised as "Drives perfect," with severe exterior damage(which is acceptable).

No other damage has been listed.

The seller is refusing a private inspection from R8TR and requires a $500 non-refundable deposit before I can take a look at the car. So, let's say I take my risk and finalize the transaction.

How far will eBay's Auto Protection Policy go in the following cases?

1. Car drives but unable to pass inspection.

2. The car has rust in the frame.

3. Other issues that aren't too clear at visual inspection, such as transmission or engine, engine burning oil, etc. How can these even be proven?

4. Which item will protection policy will refund?

     1. Non-refundable deposit

     2. Addition of $429 dealer fee, which was not part of the listing price.

     3. Original payment price as listed.

     4. Shipping costs back and forth from the seller.

"Drives perfect" seems to have much room for fall in the crack, considering the age of the vehicle(2008, Solara, with 77000 miles), and the seller can subjectively argue. So I am wondering how much can I rely on eBay's Auto Policy Protection?

My stance is that the car is mechanically sound and able to pass inspection; I will be pleased because of the price point($780!!)

[glorybells]

1) if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

2). You’re expected to either personally inspect and test drive any vehicle, or have a mechanic of your choosing inspect it.

3). You can back out of a vehicle purchase at any time before the payment changes hands, without any penalty.

4.  The seller refusing to allow an inspection, plus the deposit being non refundable are big red flags to me.

5.  eBay’s Vehicle Protection Program covers various things depending on the age and type of vehicle, but I wouldn’t expect them to totally bail you out if the vehicle ends up being a total disaster.

[rock.star]

The VPP doesn't apply to any vehicle over 10 years old .

Vehicle sales on eBay motors are non-binding ether party can walk away. 

I advise you to walk.