Should I buy a car at an auction?
John Paul, AAA Northeast's Car Doctor, get a response from a reader who thinks buying at an auction is a bad idea.
Q. I read your answer to the person who wanted to buy a car at an auction. The answer you should have said: “DON’T!” I went to a few open auctions in the 70s and 80s with my best friend, the “motorhead”. His opinion was that the only vehicles there were those that had failed to sell to experienced used car dealers. He felt they were only suitable for demolition derbies or parts cars, and sometimes not even that. And bringing a mechanic is essentially useless these days, since one can’t inspect much of anything without serious equipment. A. I agree that the auctions are fast paced and very hard for a novice. Even experienced buyers will sometimes buy a clunker. This is why, for most used car buyers, it is better to buy from a dealer or private party and have the car inspected by a reputable repair shop.
John Paul is AAA Northeast’s Car Doctor. He has over 40 years of experience in the automotive business and is an ASE certified master technician. E-mail your car question to [email protected].
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