My MIL is needing something to haul her foster kids around. Although she just has two toddlers, the sunfire convertible is just not cutting it.
This is not a what car? thread.
How does a regular person go about attending an auto auction? I've been to one, but all I was doing was driving. I got supper out of it. From what I remember, you pay to register as a bidder, and it's non refundable, purchase or not.
What are your experiences?
Upside: Its kind of fun. You get to see lots of stuff.
Downside: Its easy to get caught up in the fun. You get to see lots of junk.
It really depends upon the caliber of auction you get to. You need to be able to decide pretty quickly whether the car is there because a dealer took it on trade and doesn't want to deal with it, or the owner knows there is something desperately wrong with it and just wants rid of it. Remember there will likely be a buyers fee on top of your bid, so you are paying usually 10% or so more than you think. The public auctions are open to everyone, so I find there are not a ton of deals to be had- someone will always bid stuff up to roughly what its worth, either hoping to get it, or just to keep you from getting a good deal.
Auctions are not for the weak of heart. Good cars are in short supply. Good cheap cars even shorter. These folks do this every day and will kick your ass professionally. There are 10000 tricks to learn. Stand where you can see the auctioneer and any other "bidders" (cousins of the seller and the invisible man) Most important is to set an absolute high amount in advance that you will pay for one. And don't go above that.Do bid like you will never back off until you do. NEVER EVER bid on a car that you have not thoroughly checked out in advance. And remember that just because the CEL is not on now does not mean that it wont be on a half mile outside the gate. If it is at an auction and it looks too good to be true...well then it most likely is.
Comments noted, will tell her to stay away and don't take me with her
