Brave the winter chill and get a great used car bargain

The latest figures from leading car auctioneers, BCA, show that there are still some great deals to be had by used car buyers. For week ending 13th February 2009 there was a wide choice of makes and models available at BCA’s auction centres around the UK, many at very competitive prices.

As Tim Naylor, PR Manager, BCA explains, buyers can not only take their pick from a wide choice of vehicles at the moment, but they can be confident of good quality too when buying at auction.

“Ex-fleet cars represent excellent value for money for used car buyers, as they are typically popular makes and models around three-years-old and 60,000 miles that have been well-serviced during their working life. As a best value buy, they are hard to beat. And although prices for used cars have started to rise, there’s still plenty of opportunity for buyers to get themselves a great deal whatever their budget.”

Potential buyers can check online at bca-europe.com for the latest details of the sales coming up at the company’s 21 centres around the UK. BCA also offers a subscription online stock locator and catalogue service called Auction View – it holds details of more than 10,000 vehicles consigned for sale at BCA nationwide.

BCA’s top 10 tips for buying a car at auction:

Don’t buy on your first visit – sample the atmosphere and get used to the pace.

Do your homework – know what you want before you go to an auction and have an idea what the car you are after is worth.

Terms and conditions – each auction house has its own terms and conditions explaining how you can buy, what the fees are etc. Familiarise yourself with these so that you don’t get surprised later on.

Don’t rush – arrive early and take time to examine the vehicle that interests you.

Do ask questions – ask auction staff, they will be happy to help.

Check the car – it’s up to you to check the car’s condition, so examine it prior to entering the auction hall. And listen to the engine running as it is driven into the auction hall.

Budget – set a limit and stick to it. Save some funds for a post sale service and any minor repairs that might be needed.

Be flexible – if you miss your first choice, don’t give up and don’t throw the budget out the window just because you like the colour of the car you’re bidding on!

Auctioneer’s description – this is legally binding, so listen carefully. The terms and conditions will explain all the terminology used.

Bid clearly – don’t wink or tap your nose, simply raise your hand or the catalogue.