Used Car Auctions Can Save You Money

Used car auctions are great ways to purchase cars at deep discount.  Not only can great deals on used cars be found there, but also some incredible higher model cars too..  A lot of people buy these cars either to drive themselves or to mark up for future sale.  A little information can make an auction an even better experience.

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.  Cars sold at such auctions are generally sold according to used car laws which tend to make it an as is sale.  Remember the old Sesame Street skit in which a man looks over a car with “as is” in the window  He makes a cursory look at the car, but every question is met with “the car is as is” from the salesman.  Once the sale is made and the man tries to enter the car, it shakes itself apart.  ”I want the car as was!” screams the angry driver.  Don’t let that happen to you.

Car auctions generally give potential buyers time to look over the cars.  Avoid the auctions that don’t.  Arrive early.  Test drive the cars you like.  Bring a mechanic to provide an expert eye.  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.  Anyone with a decent eye can check the body, interior and other physical elements for wear and tear .

The very nature of auctions leads to another common issue.  Auction prices can be terrific, but sometimes people assume a bargain where there is none.  Like other types of auctions, auto auctions can be the same way.  The bidding can easily escalate to well over the car’s value.  There are also fees to pay, so pay close attention.  Know the prices of similar models in similar conditions from Kelly Blue Book or other sales data.  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.