Why Buy Impounded Cars? Find Out Now!

By Davion Wong in Auctions on February 14th, 2008

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by Davion Wong

You might not know, but quite a lot of people think that rather than buying a used car from a dealer, it is better in many ways to buy an impounded car. The huge discount is not the only reason for that. Read on for quick facts about impounded cars.

Previous Owner

Naturally, you want to know who the vehicle’s former owner was and what happened that it was impounded. Some people are just not too comfortable with the idea that it was a criminal.

Thoughts of dangerous criminals and mafia connected people should not bother you. Impounded cars in their absolute majority come from ordinary people who might have defaulted on a loan payment, or got caught driving with an invalid license.

Where You Can Buy Impounded Cars

Auctions that are organized by government agencies, banks and the police (sometimes via an auction company) are where impounded vehicles are sold. Look for advertisements in local newspapers and on Internet sites, or contact your police department and ask if they can give you information on the next impounded auto auction.

What’s the Catch?

In order to buy an impounded car you do not have to save money for ages. The starting bids are incredibly low and depending on the number of people involved in bidding, the closing price may still be quite low. The purpose of these auctions is to clear up the storage space as new impounds happen daily.

The condition is good and running in most cases, and you are allowed to check that personally. Nobody is here to cheat you, and honest independent vehicle reports are available on request.

The Disadvantages

You buy impounded cars “as is”, with no chance to exchange it or get your money back. The auction company has no responsibility for the vehicles’ defects and it is up to you to inspect them properly. Unfortunately, you cannot test drive the vehicle of your choice and are allowed superficial inspection only.

Participation Rules

Normally, only registered members are allowed to bid, and the membership should be obtained before the auction starts at a fee. Persons under 18 cannot make bids. Having a valid driving license along is a must. In case your bid wins, you will be expected to pay at the end of the auction.

A Word of Advice

Do not rush things if the auction participation is a new experience for you. Learn by observing and reading appropriate guides. When you are ready and comfortable, you have more chances to win at the auction. Make sure not to overbid - for that find out the prices for used vehicles. Take help of a good auto mechanic in case you yourself are not skilled in checking cars. To buy impounded cars is nothing challenging, but you need to ensure great condition at the lowest price around.

About the Author:

Discover more tips about cheap used car auctions such as where to find cheap seized car auctions near your home. Also, read to find out even more on government seized auto auctions.