Be sure to pop the hood and start checking the engine compartment for any broken parts and leaks. Check to make sure there is oil and transmission fluid, and that the radiator isn’t leaking. It is also a good idea to check the brakes, axels, tires and that the tail pipe is not oily. An oily tail pipe could mean that the car is burning oil. A car that burns oil could spell trouble down the road, which could be potential problems with the valves or worn out piston rings. A tail pipe should be dry and perhaps a bit sooty.

It is also a good idea to check the body for frame damage or paint jobs. If the car has a paint job, then it is possible that it may have been involved in an accident and it was repaired. A paint job in it self may not be such a bad thing, but there is a

possibility that the vehicle was reconditioned to look normal, but underneath the facade lies frame damage. It might also have a salvage title. Salvage titled cars may be harder to insure and in some cases you may not be able to register it.

Some auctions will allow you to start the vehicle, place it in gear and see if it engages, but they will not allow you to test-drive it. The Newport Mesa Auction doesn’t allow bidders to start the vehicles. However, they will indicate on the windshield if the car starts and idles by writing “Runs” or “Runs good.”