Siezed Vehicle Auctions

I've never been to one, but I think I'm interested. Anyone have experience and know the ins-and-outs?

You only get to inspect the cars the day before, right?

What if, lets say I find a car I like, but it's a turbocharged car. I'm not going to but it before doing a compression test. Do they have people handy to do that stuff, or no?

I am also interested in these auctions, but dont know how to get in on them.

I see ads in the paper and commercials on TV a lot.

Do they charge and admission? And do you have to put down a deposit to bid?

All I know is you have to be ready to sign papers buying the car before you leave there. I am not sure how the whole financing thing might work.

There are deals to be had at them. My Grandfather purchased a Porshe 911 (87') with about 140,000 miles for 90$. Biggest POS I've ever seen. The previous owner tried his damnest to make it a targa with bondo and totally neglected engine maintenence. Thing had a flat cam and serious piston slap. I drove the bejesus out of it for about 2 weeks until the motor rolled over and died. Just keep in mind where these vehicles come from and who drove them and how they took care of them. If I had the opportunity to purchase another POS Porsche for 90$, I'd jump on the offer :).

Idealy, it the car would have been owned by a criminal, and he is in jail for a LONG time. Or it was repossed from someone who couldnt make the payments (or a murder/suicide). Those would be good-quality cars for good prices.

It's definately worth it to check it out, just be aware of where the cars originated from.

There is a site that charges $50 and they give you a list of the cars. I would like to learn more about it though, i hear you can get good deals.

Originally posted by mdh2087
There is a site that charges $50 and they give you a list of the cars. I would like to learn more about it though, i hear you can get good deals.

Your about 2 years late on that thread! :bigthumb:

Originally posted by jay@af
I've never been to one, but I think I'm interested. Anyone have experience and know the ins-and-outs?

You only get to inspect the cars the day before, right?

What if, lets say I find a car I like, but it's a turbocharged car. I'm not going to but it before doing a compression test. Do they have people handy to do that stuff, or no?

The auction I go to lets you inspect 2hrs before auction time, NO TESTING, TAKING A PART, just starting the engines & check if everything operates. No you can't drive them either until purchased. Auctions can be bad & good, you might get stuck with some flood damaged car or you might get a mint car. Just be very careful. There is a reason why the cars @ at the auction. We picked up (2) non-running Honda Accords for $400 total (for both) - invested about $100 in parts, cleaned up, & sold for a nice profit.

How can I find out when and where these auctions are held near me (in sw connecticut)? Are there good websites to find this info out? Thanks!!