Auto Auctions

[David Conway]

Eric-
What is your take on auto auctions. I know of a couple in my area. One of them allows you to test drive the vehicles before you bid. Are they legit or should i avoid them? Looking for a project car.

Topic

[Gumpy Guss]

Since Eric hasn’t responded, I’ll toss in my two bits.

Auction cars are the dregs of the dregs. They are cars that were traded in to a dealer and the dealer did not want them to be besmirching their holy used car lot. So they’re the cars the owner’s didn’t want, and that the dealer didn’t even want hanging around. The dregs of the dregs.

Then again, they might make a fine “project car”, if you want a real loooong project and maybe a considerable challenge.

[Bluesnut]

I agree. Auctions are usually a dump off spot for cars the dealer does not want around; much like a cloth sack full of obnoxious cats being given a one-way ride so they can take up residence with someone else.

Given the opportunity to start one up and drive it is an unusual plus so depending upon the car and price it may certainly be worth checking out anyway.

[chris russell]

I would go with police auctions if you want to find something decent.

[Jamie]

I personally have had decent luck at auctions. I’ve picked up basic transportation in good repair for less than 2 grand a couple of times. We bought a Sentra fixed the AC and traded it for more than we had in it when we decided the 1.2L auto wasn’t gonna cut it on the highway. We got one of our tenets a low miles Escort wagon for $1200. You do HAVE to know what your looking at.

[Author]

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