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Motors Help & Further Information
Motors Help & Further Information

Buying Checklist

To get a good deal on eBay Motors we recommend the following:

Get to know the seller

  • Read the vehicle's description thoroughly and ask the seller about any queries you have.
    You should learn all you can about the vehicle before making an offer or bid. Are you satisfied the vehicle is in a suitable condition for you? Do you understand all the details about shipping, insurance, payment options and so on? Don't be embarrassed to ask the seller questions. Get to know your seller and the item they're selling.
  • Check the seller's feedback ratings, past transactions and reviews.
    From the item page, click the number in brackets after the seller's User ID to view their Feedback Profile. You can see what other buyers say about doing business with the seller.

Learn about the Vehicle

  • Decide how much you're willing to pay for the vehicle.
    To see what a vehicle is specifically worth, try one of the used car pricing guides such as Glass’s Information Services. A range of pricing will be included on some car listings, giving you an idea of what that particular model is worth. Look at similar completed eBay Motors listings as well.
  • Get a vehicle history check.
    When buying a used car consider getting a vehicle history check through Veda Automotive or similar service to ensure that the vehicle doesn't have any financial encumbrances, or hasn’t been stolen or written off.
  • Go see the car. Consider a test drive or inspection
    It's a very good idea to ask the seller about taking a test drive or inspecting the vehicle before the auction ends. If you don’t have time or the vehicle is too far away, you can request a third party inspection from various service providers.
  • Find out what the other costs of ownership are...
    ... such as financing, insurance, fuel consumption and replacement parts.

Buy and Pay Safely

  • Never pay for a vehicle with instant cash transfer, such as Western Union or Moneygram
  • Check the terms of sale.
    Check just how and when the seller wants you to pay and collect the vehicle.
  • Remember, if using an auction, your bid is a legally binding offer...
    ... to buy the vehicle at any price up to your maximum bid amount. If the seller accepts your bid, you're legally obligated to pay. Not paying may cause the seller to seek legal action and may affect your eBay membership. For details, check out eBay’s User Agreement and information on unpaid items.
  • Consider Buy it Now and Best Offer.
    Buy It Now is our fixed price format which allows you to buy the vehicle immediately. If sellers display the Best Offer feature this gives you an opportunity to negotiate the price online. Find out more about Best Offer.
  • ALWAYS check the My Messages section in your My eBay page to confirm any emails from us requesting account information.
  • BEWARE of fraudsters who send fake email messages claiming to represent or offer escrow services