I'm looking to buy a 2002 or 2003 Honda Civic. One option is to go to
an auction and buy one that was repossessed. I'm concerned that, if I
buy a car this way, it's more likely to have been mistreated by it's
previous owner and have hidden problems, compared to if I bought an
ordinary used car. One person has suggested that, so long as it's been
inspected, I shouldn't worry that much about major problems popping up
down the line. I'm still not sure. Can you find information on whether
or not this is something I should be worried about? If so, how much of
a problem is it?


This is in follow up to some comments on the questions "when do the
2004 honda civics come out?"

I usually figure it is best to buy a used car from a private party. If
I get stiffed, odds are it was some poor slob with hungry kids,
instead of a rich slick and fast talking businees person. To me the
biggest downside to buying at a repo auction is you need to learn the
details of how it works, to avoid paying too much.  My guess is it
only 1% more likely to be abused than a used car from an average
source, so it is a consideration, but not a major consideration.
Where ever you buy, an inspection by a mechanic you have confidence is
money well spent. If the confidence is lacking, you are best off to do
your own inspection as best you can.   Neil

Depending on the auction, you can inspect the cars just prior to the
auction, with your mechanic. I have bought cars at auction twice and
been very pleased with the results. I prefer not buying from a private
party or slick auto trader that is more likely than not ACTIVELY lying
to me... At least when it's my mechanic looking --with no input, I get
a fair assessment.

~~Cynthia