There are many vehicles sold every day that are victims of an accident. Insurance companies and wrecking yards offer these vehicles for sale to anyone who wants them. Some of these vehicles are used for parts to repair another vehicle and some of them are repaired and sold to consumers. There are many reasons to buy a rebuilt automobile; however, you should know that you are buying a salvaged wreck at the time of purchase. It is for this reason that a vehicle history report is a valuable tool.
Locate a vehicle auction. Most larger cities have vehicle auctions that feature wrecked vehicles. Insurance companies often contract with these auction houses in order to sell the wrecks. Locate an auction in your local phone book or on the Internet. You might even inquire with a reputable body shop as to the auction house's location. Insurance companies can also be valuable resources to get this information. Remember, not all auctions are open to the public.
Determine what you want. Have a good idea of what you are looking for prior to attending an auction. Are you looking for parts to repair a vehicle or are you looking for a vehicle to fix and return it to the road? Be aware and realistic with your abilities and mechanical know how. Often a wreck will have many things wrong with it that are not apparent at first look. Be thorough in your pre-auction inspection.
Purchase the vehicle. Once the auction has begun and your vehicle is in the auction ring, bid up to the highest amount you are prepared to pay. It is always a good idea to have a second or third vehicle of interest in case there is too much interest in the vehicle you are after and the price is bid out of your range. Do not get caught up in the auction atmosphere and bid too high.
Take your purchase home. At the conclusion of your successful bid, you will be required to fill out paperwork and pay for your vehicle. Many auctions will assist in loading your vehicle onto your trailer. Find out where to load your purchased vehicle and meet the auction employees in that area. Once the vehicle is loaded onto your trailer, make sure it is secured and all loose parts are either in the vehicle or in your truck.
