Why do Cars go to Auction?

Traditionally, people went to car dealerships to find their vehicles. More and more, though, savvy shoppers are choosing to purchase their automobiles at auction. Is that really a good option? It can be! You are likely to find a good deal at an auction, and vehicles at auctions are often in like-new condition, very safe, and completely functional. You can even find exotic car brands and vintage collectibles at auction. So, if these cars are so great, why are they at auction? Let’s take a closer look at the auction process.

Why do Cars go to Auction?

Sometimes, dealers send cars to auction because they don’t really fit what they are trying to sell. Maybe an older model comes in as a trade in, or a car that’s more expensive than the dealer usually sells is just not moving on the lot. It could be that the dealer has too many of one model on the lot, or has a vehicle that just doesn’t fit the demographics or geographic location of that dealer’s market. For instance, an off-roading Jeep is not likely to sell quickly in a densely populated urban area, so it makes sense for the dealer to send it to auction.

Many cars come from private sellers, and others come from corporations and rental car companies selling off their fleet vehicles. These vehicles are sold once they hit a certain number of miles, but you can be confident that they’ve received regular service. Some cars go to auction so that they can be sold quickly after a repossession. There are also auction companies that specialize in classic and enthusiast cars, and those auctions can be very exciting.

Of course, some cars go to auction because they need too many repairs or have a complicated history. Because auction bids are binding, and vehicles are sold as-is, it is important for a buyer to proceed cautiously, learning as much as possible about a vehicle under consideration. It’s also wise to learn about the different types of auctions, so that you can benefit from this knowledge.

Types of Auto Auctions

  • Closed Auctions: Also called private auctions, these are typically only open to licensed car dealers.
  • Public Auctions: Generally organized by insurance companies and car auction houses, these auctions occur frequently and are a popular way to sell used cars.
  • Government Auctions: Organized by government agencies like the U.S. Treasury, the U.S. Marshals Service, or the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency, these auctions involve vehicles that have been impounded or seized, as well as fleet vehicles that are being replaced.
  • Online Auctions: These have become very popular in recent years because of their convenience. In an online auction, prospective buyers register to join in on the auction and rely on the information provided by the site to choose which car they buy.

Why Buy an Auction Car?

Before you decide if an auction car is right for you, be aware that there are a couple of drawbacks. There are no guarantees on the vehicles or even the information provided, and all bids and offers are final and binding. However, if you are looking for a great deal on a used vehicle, auctions provide a wealth of options, with a selection of vehicles that may surprise you with its diversity.

Sedans, coupes, convertibles, sports cars, vans, pickup trucks, SUVs, and commercial vehicles can all be found at auction, so you have a wide variety of vehicles from which to choose. Often, online auction sites have photos and information about the cars, so that you can make a more informed decision before bidding. If you are a car enthusiast looking for something vintage or classic, you are likely to love car auctions, where you can find just what you’re looking for, often at an excellent price.

Find Your Next Car at a Dakil Auto Auction

Ready to skip the used car dealer and buy a car at auction instead? Dakil Auctioneers, Inc.  is here to help. Oklahoma’s premier, full-service auction company, we have led the Oklahoma auction industry since 1982. Our auctioneers have over 200 years combined experience, and our 28,000 square foot, state of the art facility in Oklahoma City sets us apart from other sales options, not just locally but also nationally.

Our car auctions offer you the opportunity to shop for the same quality pre-owned vehicles you would find at a reputable dealer, but without the hassles of high pressure sales tactics. Shopping a Dakil auto auction is a clear, efficient, and above-board process, which is why so many people choose us over the typical used car dealers. If you would like more information or to subscribe to our newsletter, you can call us at (405) 266-2709 or find our contact information on our website.

 

 

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