Car Auctions

Car Auctions are another alternative for people wishing to buy a car. Most Car Auctions sell used cars only and all auto auctions must have a car dealer license.

The protection afforded to the car buyer is less in a Car Auction in that the buyer usually must agree to take the car as seen and without a car warranty. The buyer should prepare well prior to the auction by having a qualified person such as an auto mechanic check out a prospective purchase before hand.  To ensure a good purchase at an auto auction the buyer should also have considered the type of vehicle their needs dictate. You will need a sports car or a family car or a utility vehicle? How many seats will be required? Will you need to carry freight? What size engine will you require and how many miles a year will you be driving? Once you have your requirements set firmly in your mind you should benchmark the fair market of such a vehicle prior to the auction by studying car auto adverts in papers, online and by word of mouth.

Wholesale Car Auctions are usually only open to licensed auto dealers so the public cannot buy at them.

Repossessed Car Auctions can be attended by private buyers but they can expect spirited bidding competition from used auto dealers. The buyer should check government car registration and car ownership data bases prior to the auction and ensure that the vehicle they intend to bid on is unencumbered.

Government's also sell used fleet cars at government auctions but again the private buyer can expect strong competition from other buyers as prices tend to be cheaper.

It is often possible to pick up a great bargain at Car Auctions but the old saying of "buyer beware" is even more relevant than buying through a normal licensed car dealer as the history of the auto is less clear.