Performance Car Reviews, News and Parts for the Car Enthusiast

What Exactly Is An Auto Auction?

You can find cheap used trucks at most auto auctions — a variety of auction that pushes only vehicles like cars, trucks, SUV’s, and more. Several millions of cars find new homes every year thanks to these types of auctions. Unfortunately, most are reserved for dealerships looking for new products to sell, but there are others that do cater to the public. Online auctions are also starting to gain popularity, for instance through eBay.

Super Low Prices Truth or Myth?

It’s actually closer to reality than a modern myth, as unbelievable as some of the claims may be. Some vehicles have sold for as much as 90% off its original price, and this is due in no small part to the fact that repossessed cars frequently get their second life in auto auctions. These auctions are frequently volatile, and the price can drop to incredibly low levels.

That being said, most dealers go out of their way to make sure this happens as rarely as possible, typically through the use of “reserve pricing.” What this term means is essentially that dealers will only consider winning bids if they meet or exceed the reserve price, which is determined prior to the auction.

On the flip side of the coin, car prices can zoom skyward just as easily as it can drop through the floor. Picking up your dream car for bargain basement pricing isn’t impossible, but it doesn’t happen often.

Where Can I Find An Auto Auction?

You can find an auto auction nearby regardless of where you are in the country. They’re usually held by privately sponsored auction houses, police departments, or Federal or government agencies. Schedules of when and where these auctions are taking place near you are usually available in the participating agencies’ offices, online in websites or even in company brochures and local newspapers. Go ahead and check one out — maybe you’ll find that cheap used truck you’ve been looking for!

Proper Identification

A registration fee is required to enter an auto auction. You can pay this fee at the door before you are allowed in on the day of the event, so it’s not overly inconvenient.

Things To Consider

It’s important to consider that any car you buy in an auction is not going to carry an “in house” warranty like a dealership would. Any manufacturer warranty would still apply, though.

But Do They Actually Work?

Cheap used trucks and other vehicles you can look at during an auction aren’t available for test drives, but any bidders who would like to can do some small scale testing. Try out the air conditioning, heating, the engine, and many other accessories which can run while the vehicle is on. It’s not much, but at least you know the ignition will turn.

How Is Payment Issued?

Typically, auction vehicles are paid for by cash, check, or credit card. Be sure to check with the house where the auction is taking place for any special instructions, or if only some forms of payment are acceptable.

Honesty Is The Best Policy

If you can’t afford to pay for your cheap used truck, then don’t try to win the auction as you will be bound legally to cough up that cash. If you do win, and can’t pay, you’ll be stuck with additional fees and penalties that will make life more difficult for everyone involved.

Are you looking for cheap used trucks to drive? If so, why not visit second-hand truck auctions near you and compare them with the great prices you can find online. Prior to purchasing any vehicle online, take some time to get to know the seller and how they do business. Make sure you only do business with a trusted web source with reputable sources.