People Are Buying Impounded Cars at Police Auctions for Dirt Cheap – Here's How
If someone told you that you could buy a used car for up to 90% off retail, would you believe them? It might sound too good to be true—but there's a growing underground trend of everyday people scooping up sports cars, suv's and utes for pennies on the dollar.
What Are Police Car Auctions?
When vehicles are impounded, repossessed, seized in criminal cases, or simply abandoned and unclaimed, they don’t just sit idle. Law enforcement agencies across the country auction them off to recover storage costs and clear valuable lot space.
Why They're a Hidden Goldmine
These auctions are 100% legal, often fly under the radar, and are surprisingly easy to access—even if you’ve never participated in an auction before.
Why the Prices Are So Low
Police departments aren’t interested in profit. Their goal is fast liquidation. That means you’ll often see sedans, SUVs, trucks, and even luxury cars selling for a fraction of their retail value.
Here’s what’s wild: Some cars are nearly showroom-ready—others may need a little love. But if you know what you’re doing (or have a solid mechanic), you could drive away in a $15,000 vehicle for under $3,000.
Who Can Bid?
Short answer: Pretty much anyone. You don’t need a dealer’s license or special credentials. As long as you’re 18+ with valid ID and a way to pay, you're eligible to bid.
Some auctions are in-person, while others are fully online—which means you can hunt for deals without leaving your home. Popular sites like GovDeals, PropertyRoom, and local police or sheriff department websites frequently post upcoming events.
What to Watch Out For
Not every vehicle is a winner, and that’s part of the game. Some listings are sold “as-is,” without test drives or inspections. So be smart:
Read the lot description carefully
Look for clear, recent photos
Run a VIN check if possible
Set a hard budget and don’t exceed it
Seasoned buyers often bring a mechanic to in-person auctions—or factor in potential repair costs when bidding online.
Real People, Real Wins
We’ve seen folks score incredible deals. One man in Arizona landed a 2019 Toyota Camry with under 30,000 miles for $5,500. A single mom in Georgia got a reliable Honda Civic for just $1,900.
Real People, Real Wins
We found dozens of riders who scored big. One man in Texas picked up a Suzuki GSX-R with only 4,000 miles for $1,200. A woman in Ohio grabbed a gently used Vespa for just $375.
These aren’t rare outliers—they’re the new normal for people who know where (and how) to look.
