How to Safely Auction Salvage Cars

Auctioning cars is a fun and interesting way to make money. However, it can get a bit difficult when you are trying to sell a salvage car. The car will come at a significant discount because it will need significant repairs to make drivable, but if repaired properly, it can also make you significant profits. You will need to hire an ASE-certified mechanic for proper repairs -- or several mechanics if you want to speed up the process.

Things You'll Need

  • ASE-certified mechanic
  • Vehicle hauler or 18-wheeler
  • eBay Motors account
  • PayPal account
  • Hire an ASE-certified mechanic. ASE certification comes from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, and it is the accepted authority on mechanic repair training. ASE-certified mechanics can charge a premium over non-certified mechanics, but buyers of salvage vehicles will want the additional reassurance that a certified mechanic brings.

  • Transport the salvaged car from where you bought it to your store on a vehicle hauler. This can be a flatbed for single vehicles or an 18-wheeler tractor trailer unit that can transport several cars at a time. Do not drive salvaged cars on public streets, as you would endanger yourself and other drivers.

  • Repair the car to meet all federal safety and emission regulations. If a car part is damaged, then replace it. You can still sell that individual part, but car buyers want to know that you performed a complete repair.

  • File the ownership papers of your salvaged car with your insurance company. If you are operating a car-selling business, however, then your business insurance -- not your car insurance -- will handle the forms. You also may need to register with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, depending on salvage laws in your jurisdiction.

  • List your car on eBay Motors as a salvage title, and list all the repairs performed on it. Provide a Carfax report upon request of prospective buyers. Do not embellish your listing; be honest about everything. Use a PayPal account take accept any payments, as PayPal can process credit card payments for you.