How to Find Deals at Police Seized Vehicle Auctions Near You
If you’re looking to score a reliable used car at a fraction of its retail value, police seized vehicle auctions could be your best-kept secret. These events feature impounded, seized, or forfeited vehicles—many of which are sold to the public with no reserve prices and minimal competition.
Here’s how to find these auctions, what to expect, and tips to land the best deal on your next ride.
What Are Police Seized Vehicle Auctions?
Police seized vehicle auctions are organized by law enforcement agencies to sell off vehicles that were:
- Seized during arrests or investigations
- Abandoned or never reclaimed by their owners
- Towed due to unpaid tickets, DUIs, or legal violations
- Forfeited through court orders or government actions
Once cleared, these vehicles are auctioned off—often at steep discounts—either on-site or through licensed auction platforms.
Why These Auctions Can Save You Big Money
- Vehicles sell “as-is” without dealership markup
- Many cars go for under $2,500
- Lower bidder turnout means less competition
- No financing requirements or pushy sales tactics
- Ideal for DIY mechanics, bargain shoppers, or resale flippers
The key is doing your research ahead of time—so you know a deal when you see one.
Where to Find Seized Vehicle Auctions Near You
Local listings can usually be found through:
- Police or sheriff department websites
- City and county surplus auction pages
- Towing yards or municipal impound lots
- Public auction boards or legal notices
- State surplus property listings
Search terms like “seized vehicle auctions [your city]” or “impound lot auctions near me” will help uncover active opportunities in your area.
Where to Find Seized Car Auctions Online
If attending in person isn’t possible, online platforms make it easy to browse and bid:
- GovDeals – Municipal and police vehicle listings
- PropertyRoom – Auctions items seized by police, including vehicles
- AutoBidMaster – Offers access to impound and salvage vehicles
- Copart – Features seized, damaged, and repossessed vehicles nationwide
- Public Surplus – Lists surplus and seized cars from local governments
Many of these platforms require a free account and a refundable deposit to begin bidding.
Tips for Bidding on a Seized Vehicle
- Inspect before you bid (in person or by photo)
- Stick to a budget—auctions move fast, and it's easy to overspend
- Check title status—some vehicles may come with salvage or lien titles
- Bring payment—some auctions require cash or same-day wire transfer
- Use online VIN check tools to research the car’s value and history
While you might find a gem, it’s smart to prepare for minor repairs or touch-ups post-purchase.
Conclusion
Police seized vehicle auctions are a budget-friendly way to buy a car, truck, or SUV—often at half the cost of a dealership. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking for a backup vehicle, these auctions offer deep discounts with a little risk and a lot of reward. Do your homework, arrive prepared, and you could drive away with a serious deal.
Sources
GovDeals – https://www.govdeals.com
PropertyRoom – https://www.propertyroom.com
Copart – https://www.copart.com
AutoBidMaster – https://www.autobidmaster.com
Public Surplus – https://www.publicsurplus.com