Buying at Auction

[mac_motors91]

Hi Guys,

I am looking at buying a cheap car for my little brother at auction. Apart from checking out the MOT history & checking if its got outstanding finance etc what would you look for if you were buying at auction in order to increase your chances of not buying a total dog?

Cheers in advance!

[blue_haddock]

Nowadays with private purchase fees at auction it really isnt worthwhile, especially if you dont know what your doing.

[GreatGranny]

Don't.

Depending on the budget either private or a reputable dealer.

[SiT]

Anything at a recognised auction house (BCA, Manheim etc) will be HPi clear unless it’s clearly specified as Cat D etc. but in terms of outstanding finance you can buy safe in the knowledge they have done their checks.

From a traders point of view auctions aren’t what they used to be, private buyers have cottoned onto cutting out the middle man and buying direct. Yes there private buyers fees but they are clearly advertised in entrance hall/brochure so you know what’s coming.

As a private buyer you can still pick up a bargain, usual checks, when it’s open and keys in check all electrics, if manual check it goes into all gears smoothly and check it’s not slipping.

Run around exterior panel by panel using your hand to pick up on any paint defects or previous repairs. Listen to others who are looking at it, if it’s drawing bids from traders in the hall it’s usually nothing to be scared of!

Enjoy, I love a good auction.

Si