Car Auctions?

Question

I want to buy a new car, but i dont want to deal with payments or big dealers due to the limited time i have. Some friends recommended the car auctions held by the city, or cars that have been impounded.

Has anyone ever bought a car from these "car auctions"? How does the process work? Are there reasonable price ranges? Are the cars in good condition?

Answer 1

I work at a large auction.
the cars are there, because they couldnt be sold on a lot, ...been in accidents....or whatever ,many reasons.
Most auctions, you cant just go in, you must be a registered dealer.
You are better off looking around at a used car dealership, with a reputable background. Then you'll have some sort of warranty with buy. Check the car out,...front to back...and take your dad or someone who knows cars. Check under the car, take to YOUR mechanic within one week and pay to have him go through the WHOLE car....and make a list of what needs done. Before you buy though make sure all the little things work, ...lights, directionals...windows, ..heat and a/c...etc....make sure all 4 tires are the same make...are have good tread....etc....
...Theres no warranty with auction cars and again, they're there for a reason..good luck

Answer 2

The only car I bought at an auction turned out to be one of the BEST cars I have ever owned. However, I did what everyone recommends: I took a mechanic with me to check the car out, front to back, top to bottom. We knew what had to be fixed, and what we would be dealing with. I had that car for 7 years and have just replaced it a few months ago. In Nevada, you don't have to be a licensed dealer to buy cars at auctions. You just have to buy or sell less than 4 cars a year and you are exempt from having to get a dealer's license.

Answer 3

the prices can be very reasonable especially at police auctions. i have seen cars that run and drive go for 50 u.s. dollars i have also watched fools run the bid up on clear junk.
some of the best cars were retired police cruisers and city/county trucks, but you must take someone knowledgeable with you if you are not car savvy yourself.
most will take a deposit check during the event but require cash paid in full and vehicle removed by end of day some cities will provide a temporary tag so you can get it home but actual registration and titles are up to the new owner
i hope this helps you but be careful [while you can start them before the auction begins they wont let you drive them around]
good luck

Answer 4

You can find good cars at the auctions but take a mechanic with you to check the cars over. They are quite risky unless you really know what u r bidding on.

Answer 5

You can get burned if you don't know the ropes. I recommend finding a car another way.