Most of the local car auctions will allow the public to preview the cars for a couple of days before the start of the auction. If at all possible you should take this opportunity to go and inspect the cars that you are interested in. If you aren't that knowledgeable about vehicles, then it would be a good idea to bring someone along with you that is. You can even bring along a qualified mechanic that can inspect the car for you to see if it has any real damage or would need major repairs. Most of the government owned vehicles will come with stamped log books, service history and many are only 2-3 years old and still under the manufacturer's warranty. Repossessed or seized vehicles will rarely have this documentation with it, so you should really look at these automobiles closely for any damage or repair work that may need to be done.

Here is a checklist of things that you should look for in evaluating the condition of the car you are interested in. Also remember the older the car, the more repair work it may need.

• Bald or uneven tire wear.
• Check the transmission fluid, oil and engine coolant to make sure that it's the color it's supposed to be.
  
• Make sure that all of the VIN numbers from the doors, hood, trunk and dashboard match.
• Make sure the car has a clean title.
• Look the car over for excessive scratches, dings and dents.
• Make sure the power windows, air conditioning, convertible tops etc... are in working order.
  
• Check the steering wheel, pedals, disk brakes and drums.
  
• Check for excessive exhaust coming out of the muffler.
• Check the mileage to see that it is not excessive for the age of the car.
• Make sure that the frame of the vehicle is straight and isn't damaged.
  

If the car that you are interested in seems to have too many problems that you want to fix, it would be best to just pass on that one and find one that doesn't. There are so many vehicles available that you don't have to settle for one that you aren't satisfied with. As with buying any used car either from a dealership, a private party or an auction house, they are rarely without some kind of a flaw. It is just best to know about any repairs you may need to make before you bid on the vehicle so that you will know exactly what you will be getting.

Another tip is for you to look at Kelley Blue Book to check the actual value of the car that you are interested in. This will tell you exactly what the car is worth in its present condition and mileage. Do not ever pay over Blue Book value for a vehicle.

Free Auction Guide