Buying a damaged car from the USA can be a great opportunity, but it also comes with risks – which is why caution is essential. Always check the vehicle's history (Carfax, AutoCheck), choose cars from insurance companies, and carefully analyze the vehicle title (e.g., "rebuilt" may indicate major repairs). Avoid deals that seem too good to be true and check whether the vehicle has been listed before – especially in the case of relistings. Look for "run & drive" vehicles or order a pre-purchase inspection. Most importantly: use the help of experienced intermediaries – this will help you avoid problems with customs clearance, paperwork, and shipping.
Purchasing cars from the USA, especially damaged ones, involves certain risks, including the possibility of scams. It’s important to follow a few key rules to avoid dishonest transactions and ensure the entire process is safe. Here's what to pay special attention to:
Always check the vehicle history
One of the most crucial steps before purchasing a car at auction is thoroughly verifying its history. Platforms like CARFAX and AutoCheck provide detailed vehicle history reports, including accident records, odometer readings, repairs, and other essential information. These reports help you confirm that the vehicle doesn't have hidden issues or wasn't stolen.
Avoid unknown sellers and prefer vehicles from insurance companies
Auctions like Copart and IAAI host many trustworthy sellers, but it's always a good idea to ensure the dealer or company you’re buying from is reputable. Knowing the seller’s track record helps avoid scams such as selling cars with unclear histories or hiding technical problems. Cars from insurance companies are a safer choice because they usually have documented histories and are professionally assessed before being auctioned.
When it comes to cars from the USA, the vehicle title is a key document. Depending on the state where the car was registered, the title may indicate whether the vehicle was involved in a serious accident or has legal issues. For example, a title marked as "rebuilt" may suggest that the car underwent major repairs and could have hidden damage.
On Copart auctions, cars that didn’t sell the first time can be relisted – but not always transparently. Often, the vehicle reappears under a different seller’s account, which might be an attempt to hide its history or damages. Before making a purchase, research whether the vehicle has already been listed previously and try to find out why it was relisted.
Sometimes cars at auction are offered at extremely low prices that look too good to be true. This could be a warning sign that something’s wrong with the vehicle. Before bidding, thoroughly check all available details – including the vehicle’s condition, history, and estimated repair costs.
If possible, consider buying a "run & drive" car – one that can start and move under its own power. This usually means the vehicle is mechanically sound enough to reduce the risk of costly, hidden issues. While inspecting a car in person is not always feasible, most auctions offer professional inspection services. In some cases, you can also request an online inspection or ask the seller for extra photos and videos to better evaluate the vehicle’s condition.
Finding the right car is just one part of the process – logistics and formalities play a huge role in successful vehicle import. An experienced agent who knows the US market can help you avoid scams and serious mistakes, such as incorrect documentation, customs clearance issues, or shipping problems. A trustworthy intermediary not only ensures legal compliance but also helps streamline the process, reducing the risks associated with importing a car from the USA.