Online car auctions feature a great selection of new and used vehicles at good prices, with the ability to search by make and model to find exactly what you're looking for. Here's a list of the top five online car auction sites.
Before bidding, know how much you're willing to spend and stick with that number. Know the value of the vehicle you're bidding on, and check the auction site's rules for information such as minimum bid, fees, and more.
01
of 05
Best Online Car Auction Site for Fixer-Uppers: Salvage Bid
What We Like
There are many vehicles in great condition on Salvage Bid that just need some TLC to get up and running again.
Cars on this site are extremely affordable.
What We Don't Like
The premium membership will cost you $200 a year, regardless of how often you use it.
For live auction bidding, a premium membership is required.
Ready to give your next vehicle some TLC as long as it saves you thousands? Salvage Bid has you covered. This auction website is strictly for as-is vehicles, often selling for as much as 75% off the retail price.
To get started on the platform, you'll need to register. Salvage Bid offers a free membership that allows you to bid only during preliminary bids. You also only get to purchase one vehicle on the free plan. For $200 a year, you'll gain access to the Premium plan, which unlocks every auction and feature on the website. Live auctions require a Premium plan.
02
of 05
Best for Finding a Clean Title: A Better Bid:
What We Like
It's easy to find vehicles with a clean title here.
The website is simple to use and navigate.
What We Don't Like
Payments can be made only by wire transfer after vehicle purchase.
Residents of Florida who purchase a vehicle are also charged a higher transaction fee of $399 for premium and $499 for basic membership.
We all know how vital a clean title (no severe damage) is when purchasing a vehicle. Although A Better Bid offers used and salvaged vehicles, clean titles are separated for easy access.
A Better Bid offers free registration to browse. However, to bid, you'll pay a fixed transaction fee of $250, plus applicable fees determined after your purchase. The Premium Membership will cost you $150 annually but gives access to a discounted transaction fee and five free vehicle history reports.
03
of 05
Best Auction Website for All Types of Vehicles: Purple Wave
What We Like
Purple Wave is free to use and only charges a 10% buyer's premium after an auction is won.
What We Don't Like
It takes a bit of searching to find vehicles that are not tractors or commercial-grade vehicles.
Whether you are looking for a car or a tractor, Purple Wave has it. This auction website has thousands of vehicles, including cars, trucks, tractors, semi-trucks, trailers, and even construction equipment. If you're looking for something special, you'll find it here.
The Purple Wave platform is free after registration and has no fees. However, a 10% buyer's premium is added to the end of every purchase price to be paid along with your invoice. For bids of more than $10,000, you might be required to provide a bank letter of guarantee or a credit card pre-authorization.
04
of 05
Best Online Auto Auction Website for the Experienced: IAA
What We Like
IAA offers flexible payment options and brokers to assist with vehicle transportation and shipping.
What We Don't Like
You're only able to bid on auctions open to the public.
IAA, or Insurance Auto Auction Incorporated, is the best online auction for experienced bidders. IAA provides services to licensed dealers and non-licensed buyers, making it easy to find a high-quality vehicle. IAA offers broker services for non-licensed individuals who wish to bid on a vehicle.
As a public buyer without a license, you'll be charged a $200 annual fee for IAA's service. You can bid only on auctions open to the public and on inventory availableto the public.
05
of 05
Best Hidden Secret for Dealers and Non-Dealers Alike: Cranky Ape
What We Like
The fee is lower than others on this list that charge fees.
Dealers and non-dealers are both welcome for the same price.
What We Don't Like
The website isn't as user friendly as the others on this list.
Cranky Ape is an exceptional online auction website for vehicles of all types. Dealers and non-dealers can bid online after account registration. Cranky Ape does charge a $50 fee for first-time users, but it drops to $45 each year after that.
Cranky Ape allows you to set an absentee bid, letting the website bid on your behalf up to your max. The website also lists vehicles for Buy Now privileges, meaning you can skip the online auction and purchase directly.
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for letting us know!
Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day
Subscribe
Tell us why!