Is an auction grade a good guide to a cars condition?
Be careful not to place too much merit in the auction grade of a car. One cannot accurately judge the condition of a car by one number. We have seen grade 4 cars that were very rough indeed, and we have bought grade 3 cars that are excellent. There are different inspectors and auctions differing in quality themselves. Auction grade 5 is generally the highest grade, for cars that are almost off the showroom floor, and of course, there prices reflect their condition. 10 year old cars, for example would never have a grade 5, unless perhaps it were a museum piece. We believe it’s of paramount importance to check out each potential car personally, taking a close look for any signs of abuse or neglect. A number can’t tell you about these things. Worth bearing in mind typically of the grade 4 cars we see, we usually don’t bid on 50-60% because they’re not of the high standard we feel is necessary.
