It's easy to find discounted car bargains at car auctions.  There you'll find everything from luxury automobiles to junk projects. Many people purchase cars this way from car auctions either for themselves or to sell at a profit. This pleasant experience, however, can quickly turn sour if you don't know a few things.

Some of what can go wrong includes buying a bad car. The car won at auction might turn out to be a lemon. Cars sold at such car auctions are generally sold according to used car laws which tend to make it an as is sale. Remember the old Sesame Street skit in which a man looks over a car with "as is" in the window. He makes a cursory look at the car, but every question is met with "the car is as is" from the salesman. Finally the man agrees to buy the car, pays for it, but when he opens the door to get into the car it falls to pieces. He exclaims "I want the car as was!" Don't be like that man.

Reputable car auctions give buyers ample opportunities to check out the cars before bidding or purchase. Avoid the auctions that don't. Spend time at the facility before the auction begins. Look around and test drive the cars of interest. Always have on site car knowledge, meaning bring a mechanic who knows about cars if you don't. If that isn't possible, at least drive the car for an inspection during the test drive. Decent inspections take only a few minutes to check the important elements of the car including the motor, belts, brakes, and the like. Anyone with a decent eye can check the body, interior and other physical elements for wear and tear.

Another problem is inherent in auctions. People assume that the car auction price will be a great deal, but often it ends up being more expensive than purchasing the item through a normal sales process. Like other types of auctions, auto auctions can be the same way.  Bidding might rise beyond the real value of the car.  There are also fees to pay, so pay close attention.  Be armed with Kelly Blue Book values as well as real sales examples of similar models and years.  No need to even look it up in advance since the information is online and phones can access it.  Don't pay more than the car is worth, even if it's a coveted antique.

Keep in mind there are deals to be found.  But keep your eyes and ears open.  If a deal appears too good to be true, it is, even at car auctions.