A public auto auction is a great way to purchase a car at a deep discount. Anything from older, junk fixer uppers to great newer cars even to expensive luxury models can be found. Many people purchase vehicles this way either for themselves or to sell at a profit.

A little information can make an auction an even better experience. One possible problem is that the purchase might not be a good one. Every car at an auction isn’t a hidden gem.

Cars sold at such auctions are generally sold according to used car laws which tend to make it an “as is” sale. Remember the old Sesame Street skit in which a man looks over a car with “as is” in the window. He makes a cursory look at the car, but every question is met with “the car is as is” from the salesman. Finally the man agrees to buy the car, pays for it, but when he opens the door to get into the car it falls to pieces. He exclaims “I want the car as was!” Don’t be like that man.

People are given the chance to inspect the vehicles at auto auctions. If an auction won’t do that, run. Arrive early. Test drive the cars you like. If you don’t know anything about cars, bring someone who does. If not, then during the test drive bring the car to a mechanic for inspection.

Decent inspections take only a few minutes to check the important elements of the car including the motor, belts, brakes, and the like. Anyone with a decent eye can check the body, interior and other physical elements for wear and tear.

Auctions also come with a built in problem. Auctions can be a great deal, but the price could also be more than common retail. Like other types of auctions, auto auctions can be the same way. Bidding might rise beyond the real value of the car. There are also fees to pay, so pay close attention.

Know the prices of similar models in similar conditions from Kelly Blue Book or other sales data. Phones with Internet access can bring this info to your fingertips while attending. Even for the car of your dreams, don’t bid more than its value.

Keep in mind there are deals to be found. Don’t go in blind, however. An auto auction follows the rule of thumb of every sale, buyer beware.