Faulty/dangerous to use

[oscar734]

I purchased some telescopic garden shears end of last year and they seemed ok. However, properly used them for the first time last weekend and the shears are faulty; they don’t lock in position when in telescopic mode and when also when not. It is dangerous to use them; not fit for purpose. I’ve contacted the seller, unhelpful as the return period has expired, they told me to contact the manufacturer which I’ve done but they say it’s the eBay seller’s responsibility. I believe the consumer protection act is not followed but what can I do? 

[tobiasd4]

Ebay MBG is only for 30 days so too late now.

Your payment provider may help, but not sure after all this time.

If UK business seller, contact citizens advice. 

[red_magpie]

they say it’s the eBay seller’s responsibility.

Correct, but this is eBay and many eBay sellers often don't want to know about after-sales problems. eBay does warn you in the user agreement that "they do not guarantee the existence, quality, safety or legality of items advertised, or the truth or accuracy of descriptions". Would you have bought it from a shop that stated this?

You might be able to get a refund through your payment provider, but this is uncertain.

If you bought it from a UK registered business seller you may have some statutory consumer rights, but enforcing them against distant, uncooperative eBay sellers may be difficult or impracticable. There is plenty of information online, or contact Citizens Advice. If they're a UK registered business seller you can also consult trading standards.

[oscar734]

Thank you