Car Auctions

Car auctions are great ways to purchase cars at deep discount. Anything from older, junk fixer uppers to great newer cars even to expensive luxury models can be found. Many people purchase cars this way from car auctions either for themselves or to sell at a profit. But unless you keep some things in mind the auction can turn into a nightmare.

One possible problem is that the purchase might not be a good one.  The car won at auction might turn out to be a lemon.  Keep in mind that what you see at an auction is what you get.  Remember the old Sesame Street skit in which a man looks over a car with “as is” in the window.  The salesman responds “as is” to every question.  After the sale is final the buyer tries to drive the car, but the doors fall off and the engine explodes.  He exclaims “I want the car as was!”  Don’t be like that man.

People are given the chance to inspect the vehicles at car auctions.  Don’t make a purchase or even a bid at any auction that won’t accommodate that practice.  Arrive early.  Test drive the cars you like.  If you don’t know anything about cars, bring someone who does.  If that isn’t possible, at least drive the car for an inspection during the test drive.  It doesn’t take long to check key components like the engine and breaks.  Look for other issues such as dings or dents or rust.

Auctions also come with a built in problem. People assume that the car auction price will be a great deal, but often it ends up being more expensive than purchasing the item through a normal sales process. That holds true for car auctions too.  Bidding might rise beyond the real value of the car.  Add the fees often associated with the auction and it means great care must be taken to know the real value of a car.  Easily accessible date on car values is standard issue for auction buyers.  Phones with Internet access can bring this info to your fingertips while attending.  Don’t pay more than the car is worth, even if it’s a coveted antique.

Remember, auctions can be great deals. But come armed with information and expertise. If a deal appears too good to be true, it is, even at car auctions.