How to Bid Successfully at a Public Car Auction in the UK

A public car auction is a great way for buyers in the UK to scoop up an automotive bargain. Sometimes, though, the organized chaos of an auto auction might be intimidating for first-time bidders. Here's some information to make your visit to a public vehicle auction a successful one.

Crucial Information Bidders Need at a Car Auction

As a car is driven into the auction hall, the auctioneer usually gives the prospective bidders information about the vehicle. This information, usually provided by the seller, is critically important to making an intelligent bid at a public auto auction. The amount of information may vary from car to car, but it can include the auction lot number, age, technical specifications, tax information, general condition and MOT (Ministry of Transport) certificate. A MOT certificate means that the car has been inspected and tested to assure that it meets minimum standards related to environmental and road safety standards. It is not in any way an assurance that the vehicle will be roadworthy for the duration of the 1-year MOT certification. Also, it's is not a substitute for regular maintenance like oil changes, etc. Cars over 3 years old require an annual MOT and it's illegal to drive a vehicle without one. Although this information may also appear in the auction's catalog, if the auction house provides one to the bidders, you should listen carefully to what the auctioneer says about the car.

How Cars at Auction Are Categorized

There are 2 basic categories in which cars are grouped in a car auction for the public: "as seen" and "all good." A car labeled "as seen" means that it's generally older and cheaper in price. When you buy this type of vehicle, you're agreeing to accept all of its faults, known or unknown at the time of your purchase. Although there are bargains to be had in this category, prospective bidders should inspect them as rigorously as possible. If you're not as well versed in cars as you'd like to be, it might be a good idea to take a savvy friend with you to a public automobile auction if you plan to bid in this category. Cars labeled "all good" generally purport to have no major issues with engine, drive train, brakes and steering. If you buy an "all good" vehicle, you usually have one hour after the sale to discover any major problems with the vehicle's systems. You should report these immediately in order to receive a full or partial refund of the purchase price.

Public auto auctions in the UK are popular ways for buyers to find reasonably priced vehicles at fair prices. It's important to keep a clear head and not get caught up in the emotion of a public car auction. Only then will your purchase price be a fair one.

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