While Playing with Dad’s Smartphone, US Toddler Goes Shopping, Buys on eBay US$242 Worth Car

Paul Stoute of Portland, Oregon was surprised one day when he received a notification from eBay congratulating and informing of his latest acquisition from the online marketplace. He didn't remember buying anything lately that's worth $US242 ($A264). Turns out it was his 14-month-old baby girl who purchased the 1962 Austin Healey Sprite, which in turn he will gift her on her 16^th birthday.

Upon receipt, "I actually thought it was a phishing email - one of those where people try to steal your information, that kind of thing," Mr Stoute said.

It was then that the Oregan dad remembered that his daughter Sorella actually and constantly plays with his Android phone. After logging onto eBay and doing some routine checks, Mr Stoute finally accepted he had indeed made a bid and won a car purchase.

"She decided to open the eBay app, and started clicking around and one thing led to another and we own a car," he said.

Mr Stoute said he initially panicked, and then tried to contact the seller to back out from the sale, explaining it was his daughter who made the unfortunate transaction.

The seller did note, however, Sorella's got a "good eye for a nice car."

"Your kid is obviously a car aficionada with superlative taste, and this would make a great father-kid project that you might just finish in time for them to drive as a first car!" the seller wrote to Mr Stoute.

Mr Stoute eventually pushed through with the transaction and bought the car. He's now asking donations from friends, family and even strangers to help him jazz up the car like new again.

It needs a new engine and transmission, brakes and roof. Better yet, the car has "almost zero rust."