Car Auctions

Car Auctions sell "as is" - and all deals are final (unless the title is fake).

Online auto auctions: like eBay Motors auto auctions and Yahoo Auctions

Wholesale Auto Auctions: Usually open only to dealers

Public Auto Auctions: Open to the public

Police Auctions and Government Auctions: Usually open to the public

Insurance Auto Auctions and Salvage Auto Auctions: Usually not open to the public

Run a vehicle history report on any used car you purchase. You'll learn the history of the vehicle, including accident reports or title "brands" such as Flooded or Salvage.

Read the description thoroughly. The description is the seller's chance to elaborate on all the details of the vehicle - the condition, terms of sale, any guarantee, etc.

Check the VIN# (Vehicle Identification Number) on the dashboard, inside the driver side door on a factory sticker, the passenger door, the trunk, the hood, quarter panels, and sometimes the engine. Make sure the numbers match. If the number on the dashboard doesn't match the one on the hood...

Consider all the potential costs such as: Title & Registration, State Taxes, and any shipping costs. Refer to your state DMV site for guidelines on taxes, title and registration. If the seller isn't local, make sure you know how you will pick up the vehicle or how you will arrange shipping if you are the successful buyer. Get quotes for shipping.

Whether buying new or used; or selling a vehicle, first check a reliable car price guide such as KBB (Kelley Blue Book), Black Book, Red Book, or the NADA Used Vehicle Guide.

For more on all things automotive, turn from car auctions to the home page.

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