Buying vehicles in auctions: good decision or bad?

Every used vehicle carries some risk: it may be in worse condition than it looks, you may pay too much, or the papers may not be clean. An auction adds one more risk – getting carried away in a bidding war. Handled well, though, an auction is one of the cheapest ways to buy a good vehicle.

Where auction vehicles come from

Most vehicles in AEXPRESS auctions are repossessed by banks and NBFCs when a loan is not repaid. The financier's aim is to recover the loan quickly, not to make a profit, so prices are usually well below the showroom or the used-vehicle dealer. Condition varies – some vehicles are almost new, others need work.

Inspect before you bid

Vehicles are sold "as is, where is". Look at the photos and details, and if you can, inspect the vehicle at the yard: start it, check the tyres, brakes, chassis and engine numbers, and look for accident damage. If you are not confident, take a mechanic or a friend who knows vehicles.

Set a limit – and keep to it

Decide the most you will pay before the auction starts, including the facilitation fee, GST and transfer costs. It is easy to get excited and keep raising your bid. Remember there will be another auction next week with more vehicles.

Online or physical?

AEXPRESS runs both. At a physical auction you see the vehicle on the ramp and bid live. Online, you browse and bid from home on the AEXPRESS app. Many buyers browse online and visit the yard only for the vehicles they like.

So, good or bad?

Good – if you inspect, budget and bid calmly. You get a wide choice, fair open bidding and a lower price than almost anywhere else. See the bidding steps and the auction terms before your first auction.