Repairable Autos & Car Auctions in Columbus

Searching for a fantastic deal on a car in Columbus, Ohio? Look no further than the city's thriving car auction scene. Columbus car auctions offer a vast array of vehicles, from salvage title vehicles to repairable vehicles and even clean title cars, making them a haven for budget-conscious car buyers and experienced mechanics alike. Whether you're searching for a new project car or a dependable daily driver at an unbeatable price, Columbus's auto auctions are definitely worth exploring.

AutoBidMaster Member Benefits at Copart

While this article focuses on Columbus, it's important to note that AutoBidMaster members enjoy a nationwide perk. They can visit any Copart location in the US and Canada, including the one conveniently situated in Columbus. Inspecting a vehicle before bidding is highly recommended, and members can do so up to one hour before the auction starts. For those unable to visit in person, a detailed vehicle inspection report can be requested through the lot page. This report includes pictures, details on engine functionality, suspension condition, electrical components, and any exterior or interior damage. Remember to request inspections at least 3 days before the auction ends.

Navigating the Columbus Car Auction Landscape

Columbus offers a huge selection of auction cars that cater to a variety of needs. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

Columbus Auto Auctions: These independent auction houses sell a mix of vehicles, including salvage title vehicles, repairable vehicles, repossessions, and vehicles from rental companies and auto dealers.
Public Car Auctions: Public car auctions tend to offer a similar mix of vehicles as Columbus auto auction, but they are often hosted by municipalities or private companies.
Auto Salvage Yards: These yards specialize in selling junk cars. Junk cars are vehicles that may have been in accidents, suffered fire damage, or have extensive mechanical problems. Columbus auto salvage yards are a great place to find parts cars or project vehicles for experienced mechanics.

How to Choose a Junk Car in Columbus

If you're thinking about buying a junk car from a Columbus auto salvage yard, here are a few tips:

Assess the damage: Carefully inspect the vehicle and look for damage that requires more complex repairs.
Consider your skills: Be honest with yourself about your skill level when it comes to repairs. It may be best to avoid buying cars with extensive damage if you’re not able to hire a mechanic.
Check the title: Make sure you understand the title status of the vehicle and any restrictions associated with it. For example, a salvage title comes with certain restrictions such as not being able to drive legally.
Factor in repair costs: Establish a realistic budget that factors in the auction price, potential repairs, auction fees, and transportation expenses.

Understanding Salvage Titles and Degrees of Damage

Salvage titles are issued to vehicles that have been deemed a total loss by an insurance company. This doesn't necessarily mean the car is beyond repair, it just means that there is significant damage to the vehicle. Here’s a few reasons why a car might get a salvage title:

Accident Damage: If a car gets in a pretty bad accident and the repairs cost more than the worth of the vehicle, it will be given a salvage title.
Theft Recovery: If a stolen car is recovered but has sustained damage, it may receive a salvage title upon retrieval by the owner.
Flood Damage: If a vehicle has been submerged in water even for a short amount of time, it can have extensive electrical and mechanical problems. These cars will also be issued a salvage title.

Since there are so many different ways a vehicle may have gotten a salvage title, it’s important to understand why the vehicle received the title in the first place. You should also carefully review the car’s history and any information available, including photos and inspection reports.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Salvage Car?

Pros:

You'll Save Money: Salvage and junk cars often cost considerably less than their new counterparts, even factoring in repairs needed. You can find many great deals at Houston auto auctions.
Great Hobby Cars: Repairing and rebuilding cars is a great pastime and can be very rewarding. Salvage cars are perfect for this hobby.
Parts Hunting: Sometimes all you need is some parts from a salvage vehicle. In fact, buying a salvage vehicle for its parts is quite common. Not only is it a cheap way to find car parts, it’s also convenient as you can use many parts from the same vehicle.

Cons:

Lots of Repairs: Salvage cars more often than not need lots of repairs before they are road-worthy. You should always take this into consideration when bidding on salvage vehicles because it will take time and money.
Restrictions on Salvage Titles: Every state has unique requirements for salvage titles, so it’s important to do your research ahead of time.
Unexpected Issues: Unexpected issues always seem to arise. It’s important to factor this in as you plan for your salvage car purchase.

Following this guide and using all of the tools AutoBidMaster provides will help you purchase the perfect salvage vehicle at auction prices.

Columbus car auctions have a wide variety of options, all waiting for you to discover. Good luck on your online auto auction adventure!

Salvage Car Auctions Online in Columbus, OH