How To Be A Smart Buyer At Car Auctions

​Most consumers do not automatically think “car auctions” when they want to buy a car. Furthermore, the really good car auctions are only open for licensed car dealers anyway, plus there is the risk that you could buy a “lemon” at an auction, compared to buying from an established car dealer.

Be that as it may, there are still great bargains to be had at car auctions, but only if you know what you’re doing. With that in mind, it will help if you take note of these tips:

• ​All the cars being sold at car auctions are sold “as is”. Do the most thorough inspection you can. Take a look at the panels, pop the hood, listen to any noises that shouldn’t be there, and use your nose to hunt for strange odors. Don’t forget to look carefully for leaks. Bring a mechanic if you must.
  
  
• There are no warranties for cars sold at an auction. So if you find out the car you bought is a dud, you won’t be protected under any legal provisions. The sellers are also not legally obligated to reveal any issues with the cars they are selling, so instead of bringing a lawyer, bring a mechanic.
  
  
• Take the time to do some research. Most of the car auctions are announced several days ahead of time, either online or through the local paper. You might also get a list of the cars that are going to be available. Take a look at it and pick out the car or cars you’re interested in, and find out everything you can about those cars. If you can get the VIN numbers, you can use them to get a history report.
  
  
• Don’t be a picky buyer. If you go to a car auction looking to buy a specific make, model, color, and year, you might be in the wrong place. Go to a car dealer instead. Getting the best car available at the lowest price you can get for it is what going to a car auction is all about. Picky buyers go home empty-handed more often than not.
  
  
• Be prepared to pay in cash. The sellers are expecting to exchange their cars for cash, so take note of that and don’t embarrass yourself. Don’t expect that you can discuss financing with them, and using a credit card to pay for your bids is a no-no as well.

Whatever car you buy at the auction, make sure your next step is to secure auto insurance. Whether you bought it at a dealer or at an auction, protecting your car is always a wise investment.

At Insurance Marketplace, Inc., we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (541) 779-0177 or Click Here to request a free quote.