Quick Answer: Buying at Auction vs Other Methods
| Method | Best For | Risk Level | Typical Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auction (Dealer) | Experienced buyers, wholesale prices | High | 10-20% below retail |
| Auction (Government) | Fleet vehicles, service history | Medium | 5-15% below retail |
| Private Sale | Negotiation flexibility | Medium | 5-10% below dealer |
| Dealer | Warranty, peace of mind | Low | Retail price |
| Car Broker | Best of both worlds | Low | 10-15% below retail |
Key auction tip: Never bid without inspecting. The "as-is" nature of auctions means problems become your problems.
Understanding Queensland Car Auctions
Car auctions in Queensland can offer genuine savings—but they're not for everyone. The vehicles sold at auction include ex-fleet cars, trade-ins dealers don't want, repossessions, and insurance write-offs. Some are excellent value; others are money pits.
Types of Car Auctions in Queensland
Dealer Auctions (Manheim, Pickles)
These are the big players. Manheim and Pickles run regular auctions in Brisbane and occasionally in regional centres.
What's sold:
- Trade-ins that dealers don't want to retail
- Ex-fleet vehicles
- Finance company repossessions
- Insurance company salvage
Who can buy:
- Traditionally dealer-only, but both now offer public access
- Registration required (free)
- Online and in-person bidding available
Government Auctions
The Queensland Government sells ex-fleet vehicles through Pickles and dedicated government auction sites.
Pros:
- Known service history
- Regular maintenance (usually)
- Often lower kilometres for age
Cons:
- High demand means competitive pricing
- Interior wear from multiple drivers
- Often base-model specifications
Private Auction Houses
Smaller auction houses operate throughout Queensland, including some that service the Central Queensland region directly.
How to Register and Prepare
Step 1: Registration
Before you can bid at any auction, you'll need to register:
- Create an online account - Both Manheim and Pickles require free registration
- Provide ID - Driver's licence and credit card for deposits
- Set up payment method - Most require a deposit hold on your card
- Read the terms - Crucial: understand the buyer's premium (typically 5-7% on top of hammer price)
Step 2: Research Available Vehicles
Most auctions list vehicles online several days before the auction:
- Review detailed photos
- Check the condition report (if available)
- Note any damage or issues disclosed
- Research market value using RedBook or Carsales
Step 3: Inspect Before the Auction
This is non-negotiable. Auction vehicles are sold "as-is, where-is" with no warranty.
Inspection day tips:
- Arrive early (best vehicles get the most attention)
- Bring a torch for checking under the car
- Start the engine if allowed (many auctions permit this)
- Check all electrics, A/C, windows
- Look for signs of accident damage or repainting
- Take photos of everything
Consider a professional inspection: Some auction houses allow pre-purchase inspections. Spending $250-$350 on an RACQ inspection could save you thousands.
Bidding Strategies That Work
Set Your Maximum and Stick to It
Before the auction, determine your absolute maximum bid:
Calculation:
- Market value of the vehicle: $X
- Minus buyer's premium (usually 5-7%): -$Y
- Minus any repairs needed: -$Z
- Minus transport if not local: -$A
- = Your maximum bid
Example:
- Market value: $25,000
- Buyer's premium (6%): -$1,500
- Minor repairs needed: -$800
- Transport to Rockhampton: -$500
- Maximum bid: $22,200
During the Auction
Do:
- Bid confidently and clearly
- Keep your paddle visible to the auctioneer
- Watch other bidders for hesitation
- Know when to walk away
Don't:
- Get caught up in bidding wars
- Exceed your maximum by even $100
- Assume you're getting a bargain just because it's an auction
- Bid on impulse without inspection
Online Bidding Tips
If you're bidding online from Central Queensland:
- Test your internet connection beforehand
- Log in early (at least 15 minutes before)
- Be aware of slight delays in online bidding
- Set auto-bids if available
- Have a phone number ready in case of technical issues
The Hidden Costs of Auction Buying
Buyer's Premium
Typically 5-7% added to the hammer price. On a $20,000 car, that's $1,000-$1,400 extra.
GST
If the seller is GST-registered, GST applies on top of the hammer price AND buyer's premium.
Transport
From Brisbane to Central Queensland:
- Rockhampton: $700-$900
- Mackay: $900-$1,200
- Gladstone: $650-$850
Registration Transfer
Standard QLD transfer fees plus stamp duty based on market value (not what you paid).
Repairs
Budget for unknowns. Even "good condition" auction cars often need:
- New tyres
- Service (may be overdue)
- Minor mechanical fixes
- Detailing
Red Flags to Watch For
At Inspection
Avoid vehicles with:
- Mismatched paint (possible accident repair)
- Engine warning lights on
- Unusual engine noise
- Heavy oil residue under bonnet
- Water marks inside (flood damage)
- Frame damage visible
- Missing service history
In the Listing
Be cautious if:
- "No reserve" but low starting bid (possible problems)
- Vague condition descriptions
- Limited photos
- Repairable write-off (WOVR) status
- Multiple previous owners in short time
- Kilometres don't match age (possible rollback)
Always Run a PPSR Check
Before bidding, run a PPSR check ($2 at ppsr.gov.au) to verify:
- No finance owing
- Not a stolen vehicle
- Not a statutory write-off
- Accurate VIN matches the car
After You Win
Payment
Most auctions require:
- Full payment within 24-48 hours
- Bank transfer or cleared funds
- Credit card may incur additional fees
Collection
- Arrange transport immediately (demand is high post-auction)
- Check the vehicle matches auction listing
- Document any discrepancies immediately
- Obtain all paperwork (receipt, transfer forms)
Transfer Registration
Queensland registration transfer requirements:
- Safety Certificate (roadworthy)
- Transfer application form
- Proof of purchase
- PPSR check (recommended)
- Payment of stamp duty and transfer fees
When Auctions Make Sense (and When They Don't)
Auctions Are Good For:
- Experienced buyers who can accurately assess condition
- Mechanics or handy people who can do their own repairs
- Specific vehicle hunters looking for hard-to-find models
- Budget buyers willing to accept some risk for savings
- Fleet buyers purchasing multiple vehicles
Auctions Are NOT Good For:
- First-time buyers without mechanical knowledge
- People needing warranties or consumer protection
- Time-poor buyers who can't inspect and research
- Anyone needing finance (most auctions require immediate payment)
- Risk-averse buyers who want certainty
The Alternative: Let Us Handle It
Here's the truth: unless you really enjoy the auction process, there's an easier way to get auction-level prices without the risk.
As car brokers, we:
- Have access to the same auction inventory
- Can inspect vehicles on your behalf
- Know how to spot problems before they become yours
- Handle all the paperwork and transport
- Often negotiate better prices than individual buyers
You get the savings without the stress—and if something goes wrong, you have someone in your corner.
Ready to Find Your Next Car?
Whether you want to tackle auctions yourself or let us find you a great deal, we're here to help Central Queensland buyers get the best value on their next vehicle.
Talk to us about your car search or see what we can find for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Auctions in Queensland
Can anyone buy at car auctions in Queensland?
Yes, most major auctions (Pickles, Manheim) now allow public buyers to register and bid. You'll need to create a free account with valid ID and a credit card for deposit holds. Some specialty auctions may still be dealer-only, but these are becoming rare. Government auctions are fully open to the public.
How much cheaper are cars at auction compared to dealers?
Auction prices typically run 10-20% below retail prices for equivalent vehicles. However, you need to factor in the buyer's premium (5-7%), possible repairs, transport costs, and the lack of warranty. After all costs, realistic savings are usually 5-15% compared to dealer pricing—but with significantly more risk.
What does "as-is, where-is" mean at auctions?
This means you're buying the vehicle in its current condition with no warranty or guarantees. Any problems—mechanical, electrical, or structural—become your responsibility the moment the hammer falls. This is why pre-auction inspection is absolutely essential. You have no recourse if issues emerge after purchase.
Do I need finance approval before bidding at auction?
Yes, most auctions require full payment within 24-48 hours, so traditional car finance doesn't work. You'll need pre-approved funds, a personal loan, or cash available before bidding. Some finance companies offer pre-approved auction finance, but this must be arranged well before auction day.
What is the buyer's premium at car auctions?
The buyer's premium is an additional fee (typically 5-7% of the hammer price) charged by the auction house. On a $20,000 winning bid, expect to pay $1,000-$1,400 extra. This is on top of the hammer price, and GST may apply on both amounts. Always factor this into your maximum bid calculation.
Can I take a test drive before bidding?
Generally no. Most auctions only allow visual inspection and starting the engine (if permitted). You cannot test drive vehicles before auction. This is another reason professional inspection is valuable—an experienced mechanic can identify many issues without a road test by checking the engine, transmission, and running gear.
