PSA: PayPal Buyer Protection is useless in partial trades

[MatrixClaw]

Recently traded an amp, plus a pedal and cash sent through PayPal. The other guy's amp arrived damaged and I had to take it to a tech to get it fixed. Seller refused to pay for repairs because he claimed that mine didn't sound right to him and "needed tech work too." He never sent it to a tech and has it listed for sale with no mention of any damage to it. I filed a PayPal claim, assuming they'd rule in my favor and give me money back for the repairs. Nope, Buyer Protection does not cover repairs and I have to send back a $1700 amp if I want my $200 in repair money back. Seller blocked me so I have no way of contacting me and PayPal won't help.

On one hand, I get the policy, but on the other, they seem completely fine with the fact that I'd have to send back something valued way more than the refund I asked for, and also allowing the other guy to keep all the gear I sent him, essentially scamming me out of thousands of dollars. Trader beware - PayPal does NOT have your back in this instance. Make sure you pay with a credit card, so you can utilize a charge back.

 

[Chocol8]

Credit card might be no better in that scenario. They will likely ask you to return the product to get a refund as well.

I don’t do trades that are not in person where both sides can test the gear. Other wise it is a purchase or a sale and no F and F BS.