An auto auction is a great way to purchase a car at a deep discount. Not only can great deals on used cars be found there, but also some incredible higher end cars too.. Whether it’s for personal use or resale, a lot of people purchase vehicles in this manner. 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. The rule of the auction jungle is “as is”. Even children have been taught about “as is” through a television cartoon showing a guy buying a used car. As he inspects the car he asks a lot of questions to which the salesman always responds “as is”. 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 be like that man.

People are given the chance to inspect the vehicles at auto auctions. If an auction won’t do that, run. Arrive early. Test drive the cars you like. Bring a mechanic to provide an expert eye. 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. Check other elements for damage. This includes the body, upholstery, and bumpers .

The very nature of auctions leads to another common issue. Auction prices can be terrific, but sometimes people assume a bargain where there is none. That holds true for auto auctions too. The car’s value can be quickly eclipsed by excited bidding. 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. 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.

Remember, auctions can be great deals. But come armed with information and expertise. An auto auction follows the rule of thumb of every sale, buyer beware.