ebay keyboard not as described: recommended action?

[Special K]

I bought a Northgate Omnikey 101 on ebay that was advertised as being in "pristine" condition (although it was categorized as a "used" item).  I just received it today and discovered that it is definitely not pristine (although not terrible condition).  One of the rubber feet is missing, the cable is coming apart at one end, one of the plastic "hooks" on the back is broken, and there appears to be rust spots on the backplate (although I will need to disassemble the board to be sure).  I have not yet been able to actually test the keyboard because I don't have the correct cable/adapter.

Looking back I probably should have known better because none of this was visible from the photos and the seller never responded to my questions asking for more information and/or photos.

Given that, what would you do?  Should I file a dispute?  The item was classified as "used" but the description and photos were deceptive.  Had I known the extent of the wear I probably would have passed or would have bid lower.

Obviously whether or not the keyboard actually works will play a big part, but I won't be able to answer that until I get a new cable or adapter.

NOTE: This was not (to my knowledge) purchased from anyone on GH.

[hwood34]

If you file a dispute, it'll usually be resolved pretty easily if it's obvious the item wasn't as described and return shipping is free

[intelli78]

1. Decide if it's really a battle you want to fight, or if you can just chalk it up to a lesson learned for the future. Sometimes it's just not worth the hassle even if the seller is in the wrong.

2. If yes, don't immediately file a dispute, just contact the seller and ask for a resolution. Be specific about what you want from him/her. In general, a straight return is probably the best resolution, as it's pretty messy to ask for a partial refund.

3. If seller doesn't help you, then file a dispute.

[Special K]

2. If yes, don't immediately file a dispute, just contact the seller and ask for a resolution. Be specific about what you want from him/her. In general, a straight return is probably the best resolution, as it's pretty messy to ask for a partial refund.

Would a straight return be done outside of ebay's protection?  What if I return the item but don't receive a refund, or they reverse the payment after they receive the keyboard?

[hwood34]

2. If yes, don't immediately file a dispute, just contact the seller and ask for a resolution. Be specific about what you want from him/her. In general, a straight return is probably the best resolution, as it's pretty messy to ask for a partial refund.

Would a straight return be done outside of ebay's protection?  What if I return the item but don't receive a refund, or they reverse the payment after they receive the keyboard?

I'm pretty sure you can just file a request for a refund through ebay. Doesn't hurt the seller's rep, you're refund is protected, and free shipping. It's really a pretty easy process

[intelli78]

Doesn't hurt the seller's rep

I could be wrong, as I have not sold on eBay for a long time, but I am pretty sure it does impact some seller metrics/ratings... that's why there are so many sellers out there that say "contact me first" if there's a problem.