Protection against misrepresentation. Not against the market.
Arbitration exists so a dealer is never forced to complete a purchase on a vehicle that is materially different from what was disclosed. It does not exist as a renegotiation tool, and it is not available simply because a buyer changed their mind.
How a case moves.
- 01
Filing window
A dealer may open a case within 24 hours of vehicle receipt, or before the vehicle is moved to retail inventory — whichever comes first.
- 02
Evidence
Photographs of the specific condition, a written statement of the discrepancy and, where mechanical, a diagnostic or repair estimate from a licensed facility.
- 03
Seller response
The seller receives the claim and the evidence, and has 24 hours to respond with their own disclosure record and photographs.
- 04
Platform review
YourCarBid compares the claim against the Verified Condition Profile, auction photographs and disclosure answers captured at listing.
- 05
Ruling
A written outcome is issued to both parties and recorded permanently against the dealership's conduct scorecard.
Legitimate grounds
- Undisclosed structural or frame damage
- Undisclosed major mechanical or drivetrain failure
- Odometer discrepancy against the disclosed reading
- Significant undisclosed body damage or repaint
- Title status materially different from disclosure
- Undisclosed active warning lights
- Major equipment represented as present and absent on receipt
Not grounds for arbitration
- Ordinary wear consistent with age, mileage and the photographs
- Minor cosmetic findings already disclosed at auction
- A shift in the wholesale market after the auction closed
- A desire for better margin after winning the vehicle
- Curb rash, stone chips or interior wear visible in the listing photographs
- Routine maintenance items such as tires, brakes or fluids
Three possible rulings.
No adjustment
Condition was adequately disclosed. The dealer completes the purchase at the winning bid.
Negotiated adjustment
Both parties accept a documented price adjustment reflecting the verified discrepancy.
Released sale
The transaction is unwound. The vehicle returns to the seller and may be re-listed with corrected disclosures.
Dealer conduct scorecard
Every case is recorded. Dealerships that use arbitration as a negotiating tactic lose bidding privileges.
- Arbitration rate against completed purchases
- Frequency of claims later ruled unfounded
- Payment and pickup timeliness
- Post-award abandonment rate