Car Auctions – Tips and Advices
It’s easy to find discounted car bargains at car auctions. Not only can great deals on used cars be found there, but also some incredible higher model cars too. Many people purchase cars this way from car auctions either for themselves or to sell at a profit. But unless you keep some things in mind the auction can turn into a nightmare.
Maybe the car isn’t as wonderful as it seemed. Every car at an auction isn’t a hidden gem. Cars sold at such auctions are generally sold according to used car laws which tend to make it an as is sale. Remember the old Sesame Street skit in which a man looks over a car with “as is” in the window. The salesman responds “as is” to every question. After the sale is final the buyer tries to drive the car, but the doors fall off and the engine explodes. The unfortunate buyer shouts “I want the car as was!” Don’t let that happen to you.
Reputable car auctions give buyers ample opportunities to check out the cars before bidding or purchase. Avoid the auctions that don’t. Spend time at the facility before the auction begins. Look around and test drive the cars of interest. Always have on site car knowledge, meaning bring a mechanic who knows about cars if you don’t. If that isn’t possible, at least drive the car for an inspection during the test drive. Decent inspections take only a few minutes to check the important elements of the car including the motor, belts, brakes, and the like. Anyone with a decent eye can check the body, interior and other physical elements for wear and tear.
Another problem is inherent in auctions. People assume that the car auction price will be a great deal, but often it ends up being more expensive than purchasing the item through a normal sales process. That holds true for car auctions too. The bidding can easily escalate to well over the car’s value. Be very careful because fees will be added to the final bid price. Know the prices of similar models in similar conditions from Kelly Blue Book or other sales data. Phones with Internet access can bring this info to your fingertips while attending. It’s pretty foolish to pay more for a car than it’s worth even if it’s an eye catcher.
Remember, auctions can be great deals. But come armed with information and expertise. If a deal appears too good to be true, it is, even at car auctions.
