Even with "no returns," eBay buyers can return any item that isn't as described, and you pay the return shipping. Your protection is an accurate listing plus proof of exactly what you shipped (eBay Money Back Guarantee).

Know the return rules

• Free 30-day returns are mandatory only for New and New-other parts over $10 in fixed-price eBay Motors listings (since July 15, 2025); wheels, tires, engines, transmissions, door and hood panels, freight and local-pickup listings are excluded. Used junkyard parts are exempt, so you choose your own policy (eBay).
• "Not as described" returns: the buyer has 30 days after delivery; you respond within 3 business days and refund within 2 business days of getting it back.
• "Doesn't fit" returns under eBay Guaranteed Fit: eBay pays the return label, but it comes from your fitment table, so get fitment right.
• If a part comes back used, damaged or missing pieces, you can deduct up to 50% of the refund within 2 business days (eBay).
• Offering free 30-day returns (plus 1-day handling) is required for Top Rated Plus and its 10% fee discount, so many established sellers offer them.

The two scams parts sellers face

1. The part swap. The buyer sends back their own broken part or a cheap copy. A 10-year Mercedes parts seller won his case because his photos proved the returned parts weren't his (eBay Community).
2. The free diagnosis. The buyer buys an expensive module to test their car, then returns it. One seller says that politely warning return requesters that up to 50% may be withheld for used items led about 60% never to send the item back (eBay Community).

Your anti-swap routine (Counterman)

1. Before listing, photograph every label, serial and date code.
2. Mark each part with a discreet paint pen or UV pen stock number, and photograph the mark.
3. Zip-tie a small SKU tag to the part.
4. Video the packing of anything over about $100.
5. On a return, video the unboxing and compare marks and serials before you refund.
6. If it's swapped: report through the eBay return, upload your photos, deduct or appeal, and report the buyer. Some sellers also report to the US Postal Inspection Service and IC3. Always report abusive buyers; eBay only tracks abuse sellers report.

Protect your account. Ship within your handling time with tracking, answer messages within a day, and never cancel because you can't find a part. Keep your defect rate under 2% to stay Above Standard (0.5% for Top Rated) (eBay seller standards).