Used and Seized Vehicle Auctions: Where to Find Deals and How to Buy Smart

You don’t need to pay dealership markups to get a reliable car—vehicle auctions can offer big savings.

What Are Seized and Police Impound Vehicle Auctions?

Seized vehicle auctions include cars that have been repossessed, abandoned, or taken by law enforcement through legal actions. Police impound auctions specifically involve vehicles that were impounded due to unpaid tickets, arrests, or investigations—and the owners never reclaimed them.

Since these vehicles often need to be cleared quickly to free up space, they’re auctioned to the public at deeply discounted prices. Many are in drivable condition and may include anything from compact cars and SUVs to luxury models and work trucks.

These sales are open to anyone—you don’t need to be a dealer. All you need is the ability to bid and follow through with the purchase.

Where to Find Seized and Used Car Auctions

You can find vehicle auctions online or locally. Some of the best places to look include:

GovDeals – Government auction platform with police vehicles, seized cars, and public fleet sales
Auto Auction Mall – Nationwide listings for salvage, used, and government vehicles
PublicSurplus.com – Local and regional police and government asset auctions
Copart – Offers used and salvage vehicles from insurance companies, police, and fleet operators
Local Tow Yards or Police Departments – Many cities host regular impound auctions—check their websites or call for schedules
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist – Occasionally list smaller auction events hosted by municipalities

Be sure to review each auction’s rules—some require a deposit to bid, while others are first-come, first-served.

How to Save Big at Vehicle Auctions

Auction vehicles often sell for 30–70% less than their book value. Here’s how you can maximize your savings:

Look for less popular models or colors – These get fewer bids and can sell much cheaper
Attend in person if possible – You’ll have a better chance to inspect the car before bidding
Bring a mechanic or do your research – Some vehicles are sold “as-is,” so know what to look for
Set a budget and stick to it – Avoid auction hype and only bid on what you can afford
Be ready to pay quickly – Most auctions require payment within 24–72 hours of winning

Tips for Smart Auction Buying

Get the VIN and run a history report – Use services like Carfax or AutoCheck to check title history and accident records
Inspect before you bid – Look for signs of frame damage, fluid leaks, or electrical issues
Ask about documentation – Make sure you’ll get a clear title and bill of sale
Watch the fees – Some auctions charge buyer premiums or processing fees, which can add up
Look at fleet and government vehicles – These are often well-maintained with detailed service records

Don’t forget to factor in registration, taxes, and any minor repairs the vehicle may need.

Final Thoughts

Police impound and seized vehicle auctions are some of the best-kept secrets in car buying—offering significant savings if you know where and how to look. Whether you’re after a commuter car, work truck, or just a backup vehicle, these auctions can deliver real value.

Approach the process with research, patience, and a set budget, and you could drive away with a deal that beats anything on the retail market.

Sources

GovDeals – https://www.govdeals.com

Auto Auction Mall – https://www.autoauctionmall.com

Public Surplus – https://www.publicsurplus.com

Copart – https://www.copart.com

Carfax – https://www.carfax.com