If you are looking to “steal” a car at a government auction, well, you’re overlooking the word “government”. When have you not known the government to grab for as much money as it can? That being said, auctions can be just plain fun for the uninitiated and, with a little study, they can be worth the time invested.

“Three federal agencies resell vehicles through official government auctions: The Treasury Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the General Services Administration. In most cases, private companies run the auctions under contract.

The Treasury Department resells vehicles confiscated by bureaus under its control, such as the IRS, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms.

The U.S. Marshals Service sells vehicles forfeited under Department of Justice laws through the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Immigration and Naturalization Service.”
(source)

There can be any number of reasons that a car shows up in an auction, from abandonment to confiscation. The advice is to direct your attention to used federal cars coming out of the General Services Administration – they’ve had regular maintenance and consistent usage.

You are also advised to get the auction list ahead of time and focus on a just a few vehicles. There are no used car warranties, these are “as is”. Inspect your selection during the auction’s preview time, though you are not likely to be permitted a test drive, these cars are deemed to be road worthy.

Keep your Kelly Blue Book on you, bone up on auction basics – when and how to bid – and be prepared to pay in full or with a substantial down payment.

More info on auction shopping is available here.