Used Car Prep: The Process

Used Car Preperation:   

I will explain the process that used cars and trade-ins go through so you can understand and be aware of what happens to a used vehicle you are considering purchasing. I will go through the process the good dealers go through and then clue you in on what to watch out for on your Used Car purchase. 

When a trade-in comes in from a customer they will run a Vehicle History Report. The report will dictate what gets done with the vehicle. If a vehicle has issues such as mileage questions, major accidents, title problems or anything that can be an issue that would concern a customer they would usually send that car to auction. Reputable dealers do not want to sell vehicles that have issues. It is not worth having a customer tell everybody they know about how you sold them a bad car that had all these problems. 

Next step: They will have the service department service the vehicle, inspect the vehicle, repair or replace items needed and make sure all safety issues are addressed. If an inspection determines that a vehicle needs more parts and labor than it is really worth but the car is not a safety concern then it may be sold As-Is No Warranty. If a vehicle has problems and or safety issues then it will get sent to auction. (or at least it should) Depending on the vehicle, if it can pass the requirements to be a Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle it will then go through that process.

When a vehicle has been serviced, inspected, and repairs made that are within reason it will get detailed. Some detailers send their cars out to Detail Shops and some have porters in house that take care of that. They will thoroughly the vehicle inside and out. They will usually pressure wash the engine compartment and wheel wells. The vehicle is looking good. They will then add window stickers and put it on the lot for sale. 

Are you wondering what happens to these cars that get sent to Auction?  Good Question. 

Vehicles that go to auction are not bought by the public, they are purchased by dealers that have a dealers license. They will buy these vehicles and sell them on their lot. Maybe To YOU

You can always sell a vehicle at the auction, it is just a matter of how little the dealer will accept to get rid of a vehicle. It is Very, very rare that a vehicle won’t sell at auction. 

You will be able to spot it on a Vehicle History Report if a vehicle was sold at auction. Some good dealers will buy cars at auction. They might buy cars from rental agencies, leasing companies or from other dealers than carry other brands. I have seen very nice cars come from Rental Agencies. The major rental agencies have very rigid service and maintenance schedules so a vehicle is always serviced and cared for. This will also show on a History Report. It is up to you if you feel comfortable buying a used car that came from a Car Rental Agency.