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Electrical Goods Working
AI descriptions omit to say whether electrical goods are in working order. In the item particulars there should be a mandatory question for sellers about whether an item is in full working order. The response to this question should then be included in any AI description read by prospective buyers.
cadaverama
Posted Sep 13, 2026 at 5:11 PM · Edited Sep 13, 2026 at 5:11 PM·Last reply Sep 14, 2026 at 9:09 AM
8 comments
red_magpie
MentorSep 14, 2026 at 7:41 AMThe point you've overlooked is that you can click on eBay's definition of "used" in any listing to see eBay's own requirements that it must comply with.
The exact wording varies for different categories, but for guitar amplifiers reads: "The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear, but is fully operational and functions as intended.".
eBay's definition overrides the seller's own description, so if an item is not fully operational it will automatically qualify to be returned for a full refund under eBay's money back guarantee.
cadaverama
OPSep 14, 2026 at 8:49 AMI see all of that, but it does not prevent the unscrupulous hiding behind an over optimistic AI description. And sellers should, under eBay requirements, disclose issues with the item pertinent to the buying decision. My experience is that those who use the AI description think it is okay not to.
papso22
MentorSep 13, 2026 at 5:15 PMUnless listed for spares or parts, all the ebay condition choices assume an item works as intended.
cadaverama
OPSep 13, 2026 at 7:49 PMIn my experience, mostly with buying guitar amplifiers, sellers ignore that assumption. I have had so many items described as used that don't work. I want a seller to confirm that something is working. I don't want to waste time and money sending stuff back. Nor do I want the disappointment of looking forward to receiving an item only to discover it is worn out rubbish.
papso22
MentorSep 13, 2026 at 7:52 PM · EditedWhat difference would your suggestion make if sellers are already ignoring the condition requirements?
Lazy sellers will still be lazy listers.
The money back guarantee protects you if an item is meant to work but doesn't. That is what ebay relies on, even if it's inconvenient for buyers.
cadaverama
OPSep 14, 2026 at 7:38 AMAI does not provide a description of the item being sold and it's condition. It is a requirement to describe any issues relating to the item. People don't add this info. Do I'm sorry. You are off the mark on this one.
papso22
MentorSep 14, 2026 at 8:18 AM · EditedAnd when people don't add the info, or do, but lie, you are protected by the money back guarantee. If sellers choose to allow AI to control their listing they have to accept the consequences.
Even AI generated listings include the mandatory item condition field.
cadaverama
OPSep 14, 2026 at 9:09 AMMy point is that buyers want to avoid all that. A positive statement made by the seller that can be incorporated by AI provides as much reassurance as possible for the buyer. It may also encourage sellers to test a used product before listing it. It's not much of a requirement, although I know from experience that changing It systems can be time consuming and sometimes costly. My own approach is to pitch the question to sellers, but I am a very experienced buyer.