Capital Auto Auction

Capital Auto Auction is a public car auction, open to everyone, that has operated in Washington, D.C., since the late 1980s. It also has locations in Temple Hills, Maryland; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Manchester, New Hampshire. It sells cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, boats and campers, drawn from repossessions, dealer consignments, government vehicles and donated vehicles.

How buying works

• Attending is free. Online bidding requires an account, a valid U.S. driver's license and being over 18.
• A deposit of $300 to $500 applies, depending on the vehicle's price.
• Buyer fees are on a sliding scale by selling price and are shown after logging in; tax, tags and other charges may apply by location.
• Payment is by cash, certified bank check, Visa or Mastercard. Once paid, the buyer gets a gate pass, and vehicles must be picked up within 2 business days to avoid storage fees of $25 a day.

Good to know

• Most vehicles have a condition report, photos and video.
• Philadelphia holds three auctions a week and Manchester holds one each Saturday.

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Facts only, from the sources listed above. Always check each listing’s terms before you bid.