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Types of Vehicle Auctions

Understanding the different types of vehicle auctions is crucial for anyone looking to buy or sell cars, trucks, or other vehicles. Each type of auction has its unique features, benefits, and considerations.

By Automobile Bot

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Dealer-only Auctions

Exclusive to licensed car dealers, dealer-only vehicle auctions feature many vehicles sourced from trade-ins, lease returns, bank repossessions, and fleet liquidations. These auctions offer detailed condition reports, various vehicles, and extensive auction networks. Most dealer auctions guarantee the quality of their inventory, giving dealers confidence in their purchases and access to wholesale prices.

Government Vehicle Auctions

Government car auctions, open to the public, typically feature vehicles previously used by federal, state, or local agencies. These auctions offer a variety of vehicles, including sedans, trucks, and specialty equipment, often without comprehensive service records. While the quality of vehicles can vary, government auctions allow buyers to purchase at lower prices. However, these auctions may not offer the same quality or detailed condition reports as dealer-only auctions.

Online Vehicle Auctions

Online car auctions offer a convenient way to buy and sell vehicles without attending a physical auction. These auctions are available through various companies, including public and dealer-only platforms. Manheim and Copart, for…

Police Vehicle Auctions

Police car auctions are typically public and include seized, impounded, or retired police vehicles. These auctions feature a variety of cars, trucks, and motorcycles. Seized vehicles may have legal issues or limited documentation,…

Public Vehicle Auctions

Online car auctions offer a convenient way to buy and sell vehicles without attending a physical auction. These auctions are available through various companies, including public and dealer-only platforms. Manheim and Copart, for example, may have online auctions for dealers and the public, though not all locations are open to everyone. Online auctions provide detailed vehicle information and flexible participation from any location.

Repo/Bank Vehicle Auctions

Repo and bank car auctions, typically dealer-only, feature vehicles repossessed by banks, financing companies, or other lenders, such as Honda Finance. These auctions often offer good-quality vehicles with detailed condition reports and sometimes warranties. While primarily for dealers, some repo auctions also have public locations, providing a chance to purchase relatively new vehicles at lower prices.

Salvage Vehicle Auctions

Salvage car auctions feature vehicles deemed total losses by insurance companies due to accidents, floods, or fires. These auctions can be public or dealer-only and are very popular for buying repairable vehicles or parts. While some dealer auctions offer guaranteed vehicles, salvage auctions sell vehicles as-is, without warranties. Detailed damage reports help buyers assess the extent of the repairs needed. Salvage auctions are ideal for those looking for affordable vehicles to repair or dismantle for parts.

Insurance Vehicle Auctions

Insurance car auctions are generally dealer wholesale events where insurance companies sell vehicles declared total losses due to accidents, theft, or natural disasters. Rather than handling the sales themselves, insurance companies auction these vehicles to streamline the process and recover losses. These auctions provide detailed damage reports and often attract dealers looking for repairable vehicles or parts.

Updated: 2/27/25