Impound Cars for Sale: How to Find Great Deals and What to Watch Out For
When it comes to buying a car, most people head to dealerships, private sellers, or certified pre-owned lots. But there’s one lesser-known source that can offer surprisingly good deals—impound car sales.
If you’ve never heard of this option, or you’re not quite sure how it works, this article will walk you through everything you need to know about buying impound cars for sale, including how to find them, what to expect, potential risks, and tips to get the best value for your money.
What Are Impound Cars?
Impound cars are vehicles that have been seized, towed, or held by law enforcement, parking authorities, or private towing companies for various reasons. Some of the common causes include:
Illegally parked or abandoned vehicles
Unpaid parking tickets or fines
DUI or traffic-related arrests
Vehicles involved in legal disputes or accidents
Cars left unclaimed at repair shops or lots
Once these cars remain unclaimed for a certain period—usually 30 to 90 days—they are sold at public auctions or directly through impound lots to recover towing and storage fees.
Why Are Impound Cars Sold So Cheap?
There are a few reasons why impounded cars are often much cheaper than traditional used cars:
The sellers (often municipalities or tow companies) are not interested in profit—just in recovering costs.
These sales usually happen in bulk or through auctions, where prices are driven by demand.
Some of the cars may have issues, or their histories are unknown, which lowers the price.
There’s less marketing, less polish, and often a sense of urgency to move the inventory.
Because of this, buyers can sometimes find deep discounts—up to 50–70% off market value.
Where to Find Impound Cars for Sale?
There are several places where you can find impound vehicles for sale:
1. Local Police Auctions
Police departments regularly auction off unclaimed impounded vehicles. These auctions are typically open to the public and are listed on city or municipal websites.
2. Tow Yard or Impound Lot Sales
Tow yards often sell vehicles directly or through auctions. You can contact local impound lots and ask if they have upcoming sales.
3. Online Auction Platforms
Websites like:
GovDeals
Public Surplus
AutoBidMaster
Copart
IAA (Insurance Auto Auctions)
…often include impound vehicles in their listings. Many allow you to bid online from anywhere in the world.
4. City and County Surplus Sites
Sometimes impounded cars are included in general government surplus sales. Check with your local municipality’s official website for surplus vehicle auctions.
What Types of Vehicles Can You Find?
You’ll find a wide variety of vehicles in impound sales, including:
Sedans, hatchbacks, and family cars
Pickup trucks and work vans
Motorcycles and scooters
SUVs and crossovers
Luxury cars (occasionally)
Project or salvage vehicles
Keep in mind: conditions vary widely. Some vehicles are in good running shape, while others may need repairs or have been sitting for a long time.
Pros of Buying an Impound Car
✅ Low Prices
This is the #1 reason most people are interested in impound cars. You can find incredible deals, often well below market value.
✅ No Dealer Markups
Since you’re buying directly from a city agency or towing company, there are no sales commissions or hidden dealer fees.
✅ Unique Inventory
You might find rare models, older cars, or vehicles with custom upgrades that are hard to come by in the regular market.
✅ Auction Excitement
For car lovers or deal hunters, participating in auctions can be thrilling and potentially rewarding.
Cons and Risks to Consider
⚠️ Limited Inspection
Many auctions sell cars “as is,” with no test drives allowed. You may only get to view the car briefly before bidding.
⚠️ No Warranty
Impound cars are almost always sold with no guarantee. What you see is what you get.
⚠️ Hidden Issues
Some vehicles may have mechanical problems, unpaid tickets, or even legal complications tied to them.
⚠️ Unknown History
You might not get a complete history report, and some vehicles may have been involved in accidents or used in criminal activity.
Tips for Buying an Impound Car
To protect yourself and maximize your chances of getting a good deal, follow these tips:
🔍 Do Your Homework
Research the type of car you want and its typical market price. This will help you avoid overbidding or falling for a bad deal.
🧰 Bring a Mechanic (If Possible)
Some auctions allow pre-inspections. If you can, bring someone with mechanical knowledge to evaluate the vehicle.
📄 Check VIN and History
If you’re allowed to access the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), run a report through services like Carfax or AutoCheck to uncover potential issues.
💸 Set a Budget and Stick to It
Auctions can be exciting—but don’t get caught in a bidding war. Set a hard limit before the bidding starts.
🚛 Plan for Towing
Not all cars are driveable. Make sure you can tow the vehicle home or to a repair shop, and factor in the cost.
📝 Read the Fine Print
Always read the auction rules and payment terms. Some sales are cash-only or require immediate payment.
Who Should Consider Buying Impound Cars?
Buying impound cars isn’t for everyone. But it might be a great option if you are:
A budget-conscious buyer looking for a cheap vehicle
A mechanic or DIY enthusiast who can fix issues yourself
A car flipper or reseller looking for profit margins
Someone who needs a temporary or second car
An adventurous buyer who enjoys auctions and surprises
Frequently Asked Questions
Are impound cars legal to buy?
Yes, as long as the vehicle has gone through the proper process and the sale is public or authorized by law enforcement or government agencies.
Can I get a title for an impound car?
In most cases, yes. You will either be given a clean or salvage title depending on the vehicle’s condition and legal history. Be sure to clarify before buying.
Are these cars always damaged or broken?
No. Many impounded cars are in perfectly good condition, especially those towed for parking violations or unpaid tickets.
Can I finance an impound car?
Usually not. Impound sales are often cash-based or require payment within 24–48 hours. However, some larger auction platforms may allow financing through third-party lenders.
Conclusion: Are Impound Cars Worth It?
Buying an impound car can be a smart and cost-effective way to get your hands on a vehicle, especially if you’re willing to do a little research and take a few calculated risks.
You can find hidden gems at unbeatable prices—vehicles that would cost thousands more on a dealer’s lot. Just be sure to go in with your eyes open, a solid plan, and maybe a friend who knows a thing or two about engines.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly ride, a fixer-upper project, or even just a backup vehicle, impound car sales might be the secret source you didn’t know you needed.
