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. 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.

Some of what can go wrong includes buying a bad car. There are lemons at auctions too. Cars sold at such auctions are generally sold according to used car laws which tend to make it an as is sale. The old children’s show “Electric Company” taught children about this with a man considering used car with an “as is” sign in the window As he inspects the car he asks a lot of questions to which the salesman always responds “as is”. Finally the man agrees to buy the car, pays for it, but when he opens the door to get into the car it falls to pieces. The unfortunate buyer shouts “I want the car as was!” Don’t be like that man.

Car Auctions
Reputable car auctions give buyers ample opportunities to check out the cars before bidding or purchase. Don’t make a purchase or even a bid at any auction that won’t accommodate that practice. Take the time to do some leg work. Test drive the cars you like. If you don’t know anything about cars, bring someone who does. If not, then during the test drive bring the car to a mechanic for inspection. Decent inspections take only a few minutes to check the important elements of the car including the motor, belts, brakes, and the like. Look for other issues such as dings or dents or rust .

Auctions also come with a built in problem. Auctions can be a great deal, but the price could also be more than common retail. It’s no different at car auctions. Bidding might rise beyond the real value of the car. 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. With Internet enabled phones and the like it’s now easy to look up this information while on site. Don’t pay more than the car is worth, even if it’s a coveted antique.

Keep in mind there are deals to be found. Don’t go in blind, however. Car auctions follow the rule of thumb of every sale, buyer beware.