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Top Brisbane QLD Car Auctions: A Comprehensive Guide

Looking for the best car auctions in Brisbane? Whether you’re hunting for a budget-friendly sedan, a classic vintage car, or even a luxury model, Brisbane has a thriving car auction scene. With competitive prices and a variety of options, car auctions offer a unique buying experience compared to traditional dealerships. Below, we explore some of the top car auctions in Brisbane and share tips on how to navigate them effectively.

1. Pickles Brisbane Car Auctions

Pickles Brisbane

 

Pickles is one of the largest and most well-established car auction houses in Australia. In Brisbane, they offer a wide range of vehicles, including ex-government, fleet, repossessed, and salvage cars. Car buyers can also buy use the online bidding system, allowing buyers to participate from anywhere.

Summary: 

Pros:

  • Extensive range of vehicles.
  • User-friendly online bidding platform.
  • Detailed vehicle condition reports. email:

Cons:

  • Higher buyer fees compared to some competitors.
  • Limited in-person inspection opportunities for live auctions.

2. Manheim Brisbane Auto Auctions

Manheim Brisbane

 

Manheim is a major player in Brisbane’s car auction scene, offering a vast selection of vehicles, including ex-lease, fleet, and repossessed cars. With both live and online auctions, Manheim provides flexibility for bidders.

Summary: 

  • Google rating: 3.2/5
  • Phone: (07) 3868 9999
  • Email: caa.BrisbaneCashiers@coxautoinc.com
  • Location: 110 Lamington Ave, Eagle Farm, QLD 4009

Pros:

  • Wide range of vehicle options.
  • Trusted reputation and excellent customer service.
  • Convenient mobile app for bidding on the go.

Cons:

  • Some vehicles have high reserve prices.
  • Limited availability for live inspections.

3. Central Auto Auctions Brisbane

Central Auctions Brisbane

Vehicle Selection: Audi, BMW, Ford, Holden, Honda, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, etc.
Address: 171 Fison Ave W, Eagle Farm QLD 4009, Australia
Contact: (07) 3630 1999

Customer Reviews:

  • Google reviews score: 4.7/5

Central Auto Auctions offers a diverse range of vehicles, including popular brands like Toyota, Mazda, and Mercedes Benz. With high customer satisfaction and consistent reviews, this auction house is well-regarded for its vehicle variety and transparent auction process.

 

4. City Motor Auction Group Brisbane

City Motor Brisbane

Vehicle Selection: Sedans, wagons, SUVs, hatchbacks, coupes, convertibles, vans, utility vehicles
Address: 720 Kingsford Smith Dr, Eagle Farm QLD 4009, Australia
Contact: 07 3868 3555
Business Hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 5:00pm

Customer Reviews:

  • Google reviews score: 3.9/5

City Motor Auction Group offers a broad selection of vehicles, catering to diverse needs, from daily drivers to commercial fleets. With convenient operating hours and positive customer feedback, it’s a popular option for buyers looking for variety and value.

5. Carlins Automotive Auctioneers Brisbane

Carlins brisbane

Vehicle Selection: Audi, BMW, Hyundai, KIA, Mini, Nissan, Porsche, Renault, Toyota, Volkswagen
Address: 1B, 420 Nudgee Road, Hendra QLD 4011, Australia
Contact: (07) 3260 2799

Customer Reviews:

  • Google reviews score: 3.7/5

Carlins is known for offering a mix of everyday vehicles and luxury cars. Their auctions feature a solid range of brands, from family-friendly Toyotas to prestigious Porsches. Although their reviews are slightly lower than others, they still provide consistent service and vehicle selection. Be aware that they do not do live auto auctions in Brisbane, you’ll have to go to their Acacia Ridge location for that.

6. Lloyds Auctions, Brisbane

Lloyds Auctions specialises in luxury, classic, and collector cars, making it the go-to auction house for enthusiasts looking for rare and unique vehicles. With live auctions and an exciting final bid process, Lloyds creates a thrilling experience for bidders.

Summary: 

Pros 

  • Good deals and variety: Some buyers, reported purchasing a great car at a fantastic price, acknowledging that auctions come with certain risks but enjoying the value.
  • Professional customer service: Some sellers shared a positive experience selling a car, mentioning that Slattery’s staff went “above and beyond” to negotiate the best price. The post-sale support, such as retrieving personalized plates, being above average.
  • Friendly and helpful staff: It was noted that the staff in Brisbane were friendly, efficient, and provided quick service, including assisting with loading and securing items.

Cons

  • Poor communication: Multiple reviews pointed out issues with communication. A customer mentioned that the staff didn’t know their own policies, and Rob Andrews found customer service deteriorated significantly after entering an auction.
  • Refund and delivery delays: Some customers  experienced lengthy delays in receiving refunds or goods, with some shipments being delayed for several months.
  • Condition discrepancies: Several reviews warned about differences in the car’s condition vs the listing description.

Top Tips for Buying at Brisbane Car Auctions

To make the most out of your auction experience, keep the following tips in mind:

1. Do Your Research

Familiarise yourself with the types of vehicles available at each auction. Make sure to research recent sale prices to set a realistic budget.

2. Inspect the Vehicles

If the auction house allows pre-auction inspections, take the opportunity to assess the vehicle’s condition. Some auctions offer condition reports, but a personal inspection can provide peace of mind.

3. Understand the Fees

Auction houses often charge buyer’s premiums or other additional fees that can impact the final price. Be sure to factor these into your budget.

Benefits of Buying at Brisbane Car Auctions

Brisbane car auctions offer several advantages over traditional dealerships:

  • Competitive Prices: Vehicles at auction typically sell for lower than their retail value, offering significant savings for buyers.
  • Wide Selection: From newer models to older, more affordable vehicles, auctions offer options for a wide range of buyers.
  • Unique Finds: Enthusiasts may come across rare or collectible vehicles that are not commonly available at standard dealerships.

FAQs About Brisbane Car Auctions

What types of vehicles can I find at Brisbane car auctions?

You can find a wide range of vehicles at Brisbane car auctions, including:

  • Passenger cars (sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs).
  • Commercial vehicles (trucks, utes, and vans).
  • Luxury and high-end cars.
  • Salvage vehicles for repair and resale.

How do car auctions work?

Car auctions operate on a bidding system, where the highest bidder wins the vehicle. Some auctions are held live at physical locations, while others are conducted online. Be sure to research the auction platform and bidding process before participating.