repo auction Archives · Auto Auctions California

The Best Tow Auctions and Police Impound Car Auctions in California

Looking for the best deals on used cars in southern California can be daunting with so many options for car dealerships. That is why you should consider going where a lot of the car dealers go to get their cars: auto auctions. With auctions all around California, there are likely several in your area that are open to the public. These are great places to find deals on bank repos and police impounds. These units are often priced for a quick sell to someone.

Below are the locations and contact information for police and tow auctions in California. These are all open to the public and most do not require any membership so it is free to attend the auction and look at the inventory. Tow auctions have a wide variety of cars and trucks, from old beaters to late model cars. Keep in mind that children are not allowed at these auctions. Also, most of them allow you to arrive early to look over the cars before the auctions starts. Expect to pay a small fee in addition to the price of the car, plus applicable taxes.

Police and Tow Auctions around California:

City of Long Beach Police Lien Sales/Auto Auction
3111 E Willow St
Long Beach, CA 90806
(562) 570-2828

Los Angeles Official Police Garages – Auctions

Apple Towing Auctions
9529 8th Street
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(713) 600-7794

Keystone Towing Auctions
16139 Stagg Street
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(818) 782-1996
Auctions are every Thursday at 7:30PM

Hollywood Tow Lien Sale Vehicle Auction
1015 N. Mansfield Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90038
Auctions are every Thursday at 10:00AM

Bill and Wag’s Towing Auction
1516 South Bon View Avene
Ontario, CA 91761
(909) 923-6100

Towing Los Angeles Auction
2119 E 25th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90058
(323) 870-7100
Auctions are every Thursday at 10:00AM

Be sure to view our guide for buying a used car in California.

Five Reasons to Buy a Car at a Car Auction in California

If you are looking to buy a car or truck in California, you really should consider a local car auction that is open to the public. These auctions are a great way to save money when buying a preowned vehicle. Remember: most auction locations allow you to buy a car without actually bidding in the auction. The process is similar to buying a car at a used car lot – but without the hassle of high-pressure sales tactics. The cars come from a variety of sources, including: local car dealers, private owners, government seized and impoundment vehicles, bank repos, and more.

1) It is a really fun way to shop for a used car

So you’re probably already at least a little bit curious about how public auto auctions in California work. First of all, it can be a really fun and exciting experience so do not hesitate to visit a location near you and see for yourself.

2) It is a much safer way to find a used car than Craigslist or other online methods

Public auto auctions provide a safe location for buyers and sellers to conduct their business. Online markets, such as Craigslist Autos, can attract unsavory people that prey on unsuspecting buyers. All car buyers and sellers on auction property are registered with the front office so that their is less anonymity in the car buying process. This means a more reliable, safe transaction so that you can focus on other details.

3) Public Auctions Offer a Large Selection of Cars and Trucks at a Single Location

Instead of driving all around town from car lot to car lot, you can choose from a larger selection of vehicles more conveniently. This can help speed up the car buying process for you and save you some time. Sometimes, buyers will compromise and make a purchase that they are not satisfied with simply because they are exhausted with the process. An auto auction can help relieve some of that pressure by offering a diverse inventory.

4) You Can Use Outside Resources For Financing a Car From an Auto Auction

It is possible to use your bank of choice to provide financing to you for a car you buy at an auto auction. It is important to get the vehicle approved by your bank beforehand. Also, it is not necessary to bid on the car during the auction – you can always just make an offer and purchase it on the spot without waiting for the auction to start. Most locations will also allow you to do this on non-sale days. Contact them before arriving to verify their policy.

5) Buy a Car Without Dealing With Pushy Sales Staff

Auto Auctions are great for buyers that know what they want in a used car and do not wish to be pressured by someone else into spending more than they can afford.

Here are some useful links to get you started:

California Auction Buyer’s Guide

Auto Auctions in California

Online Auto Auctions

Why You Should Buy a Car at a Car Auction

Buying a used vehicle at a car auction in California is a lot easier than most might think. There are many auction locations around the state. Be sure to check out our guide for auction buyers. Below are just a few reasons to buy a car at an auction:

Most car auctions have hundreds of cars at a single location

Auctions offer a lot of convenience to car buyers with their large, varied inventories. Anything from cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, to motorcycles, boats, and ATVs are commonly found in auto auction inventories around California. Also, car auction inventories tend to have vehicles that sell quickly, with more arriving throughout the week. If you do not see what you want during your first visit, you might fight the perfect car at an auction a week later.

Auctions are a great way to find the cheapest used cars in your area

Auction cars can come from a variety of sources: local used car dealers, private owners, lease and rental vehicles, trade-ins, bank repos, police impounds, among others. They are often sold at wholesale, or close to trade-in value. This means you do not have pay retail, aka “sticker price”, for a used car or truck with a dealer’s markup in the price. In fact, car auction prices are probably the most appealing aspect of car auctions for public buyers.

Car auctions can be a lot of fun, even for first-time buyers

Public car auctions tend to move at a slower pace than dealer auctions. They are not as intimidating as some people imagine them to be. If you insist on not bidding during the auction, many locations will allow you to make an offer and buy a car before the auction begins. Most auctions offer lobbies and play areas for children. Auction staff are trained to accommodate first-time auction buyers by helping you throughout the auction process.

Many car auctions in California offer financing

Most auction buyers assume that car auctions are only for cash transactions, but it is very common for car auctions to offer vehicle financing to auction buyers. It is also possible to use your own bank or credit union as a source of financing in order to buy an auction vehicle.