If the bidding passes your pre-set limit by even $100, stop. There will always be another car. 5. Winning and Driving Home If the hammer falls and you're the winner, congratulations!
The adrenaline of a live auction is real. It is incredibly easy to get caught up in a bidding war and overpay. how to buy a used car at auction
A musty smell inside almost always means water damage or mold, which is a nightmare for electrical systems. 4. Set a "Hard" Ceiling If the bidding passes your pre-set limit by even $100, stop
Once you’re on the lot, it’s time to get your hands dirty. Since you usually can’t test drive the cars, you have to be a detective: Winning and Driving Home If the hammer falls
Not all auctions are created equal. Before you show up with a trailer, make sure you’re at the right event:
Be prepared to pay a deposit immediately (often in cash or certified check) and the balance within 24–48 hours.
Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to look for accident history, title brands (like "Salvage" or "Flood"), and maintenance records.