best time to buy a car at auction

Wig

ok, 20% less than dealer price, dealer will usually give you some warranty.

A better "like for like" comparison would be private sellers on autotrader, where you will get no warranty (like BCA) but you will usually get tax disc and an extensive inspection & test drive

I found when I bought my cars at BCA They were no cheaper than I could buy privately. I bought at BCA because I needed that specific car fast. If I had as much time as you obviously do, I would likely go for the private sale.

However one advantage of buying at BCA is that you are guaranteed title to the car or your money back (i.e. no stolen cars).

wojtur

Just summarizing this thread, I have finally bought a car at BCA and I am very pleased with it so far and the price. Thanks again all of you for your input.

Hammyman

Hammyman wrote: »

Complete waste of time buying at auctions and has been for a good few years since scrap went up. Anything cheap will usually be knackered - blown headgaskets are the favourite.
.

Indeed. Going on my "Murphys Law" post if the fault had turned out to be one of the really expensive ones, putting it through the auction was possibility number 2 with number 1 getting it repaired. It would tick over lovely, no flashing engine management warning signs, had a FSH and is in good condition cosmetically. Anyone giving it a quick look over wouldn't find the fault.

Queries

I've been to an auction myself, looking for a van suited to my business. The place is more-or-less full of traders. Also, on the wall is a big sign 'bought as seen' 24 hours being the maximum time after buying for queries (not refunds). NO test drives, no nothing, be very careful!!

Kilty_2

Queries wrote: »

The place is more-or-less full of traders.

Auctions are FOR THE TRADE. Yes some allow private buyers but their purpose is primarily for various parts of the trade to dispose of or acquire vehicles.