how can this work?

[robbyd]

sale of car impounded through parking fines.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/subaru-legacy-estate-3-0...

If broken for parts, ok, but otherwise, would DVLA issue a new log book, and would a dealer ever sell new keys?

[Roo]

You forfeit ownership if you don't collect it and pay the fines on time.

They then auction it to recoup some of their costs.

[Gareth79]

DVLA would issue a new log book. The previous RK could object, but you would produce your receipt from the recovery company showing you have purchased it. A dealer could refuse, but if you have proof of ownership (receipt and/or V5) and some ID I don't see why they wouldn't.

Interestingly all their auctions are vehicles with no keys, I assume the ones with keys go through a regular auction. ie. where the owner is somewhat co-operative, knowing that the value will be higher.

[KungFuPanda]

If I was the owner, I'd just bid, string them along, not collect and rack up more charges just to piss them off.

[XCP]

and wait for the bailiffs?