Going to a Used Car Auction? Here Are Some Tips for UK Bidders

Attending a used car auction in the UK can be very exciting, especially for first-timers. Although a vehicle auction is a great place to find affordably priced transportation, there are some policies, procedures and behaviors you should follow to be sure that you don't overpay. Here are a few tips gleaned from successful car auction buyers.

Tip #1 - Set a Budget and Stick to It.

Be aware that some used auto auction houses do not accept credit cards, a potential benefit for you, since this restricts you to a cash purchase and forces you to stay within your means. You will be required to leave a deposit immediately after you win a vehicle. Once the deposit is handled, you'll be able to drive the car to ascertain that it is as advertised. If you discover a problem and still want the vehicle, you should be able to negotiate a lower price. Also, make sure there's a guarantee on the car to assure that it's not stolen and that there are no outstanding finance issues like bank loans or liens involved.

Tip #2 - Bid Intelligently

In general, it's usually not a good idea to bid first, since other bidders at a used automobile auction might perceive that you're very interested in the car. Remember that there are regular attendees at most public auto auctions who will recognize newcomers and try to take advantage of them by bidding against them just to increase the price. Another bidding tip when you attend a used cars auction is that you should not bid immediately after someone bids higher than you. Take some time and wait to see how the auction will play out. Eventually, you should be able to identify the expert bidders at a used auto auction, since they may be using hand-held computers or referring to a trade book that contains standard used car prices. Follow their cue and never bid higher than they do. Also, if no one is bidding on a car or the bidding is sparse or slow, there's probably a very good reason. It's possible that the vehicle was offered previously and failed to sell because the owner set the starting bid, also known as the "reserve," too high.

Tip #3 - Use Your Eyes and Ears

Pay special attention to how a car sounds when it is driven into the arena of a car auto auction. You may be able to pick up a knock or a tick or a ping that indicates engine problems. If the driver seems to be giving it the gas excessively, this might mean it stalls or that if it stalls it will be hard to restart due to a weak starter or battery or ignition system. When the driver stops the car, listen for abnormal squeaks or squeals in the brakes. If the car shudders or lurches, the disks or drums of the braking system might be rusted or out of round or that the brake shoes or calipers are worn. If you watch very carefully, you may see the driver using the emergency brake to stop the car. This speaks for itself: Do not bid on the vehicle unless you're prepared to undertake the repairs yourself or pay for the services of a competent mechanic.

With a little discipline and some shrewd bidding, even a newcomer to a used car auction in the UK has a good chance of coming away with a good buy.

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