3 Things to Look for When Buying a Vehicle from Salvage Car Auctions

Steering you clear of the hustles of traditional car auctions, online car auction platforms allow you to buy your dream vehicle from the comfort of your home. There are, however, a number of things you need to check before you put your money down. Given the surplus of cars for sale by auction portals online, you can get carried away and end up buying a car that may seem great on the surface, while requiring significant investment to be road-ready. Know-how of a few basic inspection checks will help you stay informed and avoid purchasing a vehicle needing expensive repairs. Read on as we discuss four things to look for when buying a vehicle from salvage car auctions. 

1. Vehicle History

Checking the VIN number should be the first step when shopping a used or repairable salvage car. You can visit a number of websites such as ClearVin.com to get a comprehensive vehicle history report of the car you are planning to buy. The report has details of any major events the car may have seen, such as a change in ownership, accidents, and theft. 

2. Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are probably one of the most common problems found across used and salvage cars. If the car’s engine is in running condition, start it and let it run for a few minutes to see if there are any signs of leakage. Other areas to check for leakage include the transmission, clutch assembly, and suspension system. 

3. Rust Accumulation

Rust is a frequently occurring phenomenon across all vehicles: while a small patch of rust on the surface may not pose a major threat, widespread rusting across critical parts such as the seams of body panels and internal components is troublesome. When buying a salvage vehicle, thoroughly check the body and chassis for signs of rust accumulation. 

Wrap Up

Buying a car is a decision that stays with you for years to come. Learn about the vehicle history, inspect for oil leakage, and look for signs of rust before you make the final purchase. Hiring a professional and carrying out a thorough inspection can help you uncover any hidden issues that need repair. To start bidding on your dream car, search for a reputable online salvage car auction platform offering a huge inventory of used and repairable salvage cars in Georgia and nearby locations.