Used Cars – Enjoy “giveaway” prices at an auction

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Have you checked with the police department in your search for a used car? From time to time, law enforcement has to thin its inventory of surplus, seized, and impounded vehicles by holding auction. They’re announced in newspapers and posted at town halls and post offices, but you can also check with your local police department.

These auctions give you the opportunity to buy cars – even luxury models – at “giveaway” prices. At first glance, an auction may look like the world’s biggest car lot, but be careful. You need to pick and choose carefully, and here’s why:

* Some of these vehicles were abandoned and impounded. They may be good for parts and salvage.

* Some were seized from criminals. They may have an “exotic” allure. But, like their previous owners, they’re often loaded with problems of their own. These cars may have been damaged in the search for drugs or weapons. You may have to replace a gas tank or make other repairs to make them roadworthy. Auctioneers usually let you know in advance about these kinds of problems.

* Department vehicles being rotated out of service may have had a rough life. But you can be sure they’ve been well maintained.

Once you’ve found a vehicle that looks interesting, check the Kelley Blue Book for its trade-in-value. If you have a computer, go to the Web site at www.kbb.com for a free appraisal. That’s the amount you’ll use as a guide in your bidding.

Then go for a sneak preview. Ask to see the car’s title, start it up, and check the transmission. Find its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and do a vehicle history search at www.carfax.com or www.autocheck.com.

Do all this before the auction, and when the time comes for you to bid, you’ll be in the driver’s seat.



All the best,



Timben