The Truth About Auction House Scams: Our Worst Auction Buy

Auction houses can scam buyers by failing to disclose important information about the vehicles.

Condition reports are crucial when buying cars online, but some auction houses provide misleading or incomplete reports.

Arbitration policies exist to protect buyers in case of undisclosed issues, but some auction houses refuse to honor them.

Dealerships and other buyers have experienced similar scams and lawsuits with this auction house.

Sharing our experience can help others avoid falling victim to auction house scams and make more informed purchasing decisions.

What should buyers do to protect themselves from auction house scams?

—Buyers should thoroughly research the auction house's reputation, read reviews and testimonials, and ask about their arbitration policy before making a purchase.

What action can be taken against auction houses that refuse to honor arbitration policies?

—Buyers can seek legal advice and consider filing a lawsuit against the auction house for failing to disclose issues and refusing to arbitrate. They can also share their experiences online to raise awareness and potentially hold the auction house accountable.

Are all auction houses involved in scams?

—No, not all auction houses are involved in scams. However, it's important for buyers to exercise caution, do thorough research, and choose reputable auction houses with a history of transparency and fair practices.

How can buyers ensure they receive accurate condition reports?

—Buyers can request detailed photos and videos of the vehicle, ask specific questions about its condition, and consult with a trusted mechanic or inspector to get an independent evaluation before making a purchase.

What can auction houses do to regain trust and prevent scams?

—Auction houses should prioritize transparency, accurate condition reporting, and honoring arbitration policies. They should also actively address and resolve customer complaints to demonstrate their commitment to fair business practices.

00:00We bought a car from an auction and discovered multiple undisclosed issues.

00:13The auction house provided a misleading condition report and failed to disclose important information, including a bullet hole.

05:58We contacted the auction house to arbitrate the vehicle, but they refused and displayed a lack of care.

09:07After sharing our experience on social media, other dealerships and buyers told us about their similar experiences with this auction house.

11:43We emailed the general manager of the auction house, but their offer of $1000 compensation was insufficient.