If you’re in the market for a Japanese car, you might have come across the term “TAU Auction Car.” TAU is a well-known auction house in Japan that specializes in selling damaged vehicles. Before you decide to buy a car from TAU, it’s important to understand how their auction process works and how you can verify the condition of the car you’re interested in. This guide will help you navigate the world of TAU auction cars with ease.
What is TAU Auction?
TAU is a damaged car auction house based in Japan. They offer a wide variety of vehicles that have been involved in accidents or have other types of damage. Many buyers are attracted to TAU auction cars because they can often be purchased at a lower price than undamaged cars. However, buying a damaged car requires extra caution and thorough verification to ensure you’re making a good investment.
Verifying Your Japanese Car from TAU Auction
When buying a Japanese car, especially from an auction like TAU, it’s crucial to verify the car’s details before making a purchase. Here are a few steps you can follow to ensure you’re getting a car from TAU and not another auction house:
- Check the Car’s Origin: Make sure to verify that the car you’re interested in is indeed from TAU auction. This can be done by checking the auction house details with the seller or by looking up the car’s history.
- Use the Chassis Number: The chassis number is a unique identifier for every vehicle. You can use this number to request pictures of the vehicle from TAU. This will help you see the car’s condition before committing to a purchase.
- Confirm the Auction Source: Sometimes cars sold through various auction houses might get mixed up. Ensuring that your car is from a reputable source like TAU can save you from potential issues down the line.
Understanding TAU Auction Inspection Reports
One key difference between TAU auction and other Japanese car auctions is the lack of detailed inspection reports. Unlike some other auction houses, TAU does not provide auction sheets or comprehensive inspection reports for their vehicles. Instead, they offer photographs of the cars, which you can request using the chassis number.
Getting Pictures from TAU
To get an accurate idea of the car’s condition, you’ll need to rely on the pictures provided by TAU. Here’s how you can do it:
- Request Photos via Chassis Number: Contact TAU or your agent and request detailed pictures of the car using the chassis number. These photos will give you a visual representation of any damage and the overall state of the vehicle.
- Analyze the Photos: Carefully examine the photos for any signs of damage. Pay attention to both obvious and subtle issues, such as dents, scratches, and the condition of the interior.
- Seek Professional Advice: If you’re not confident in assessing the damage yourself, consider seeking the advice of a professional. They can help you understand the extent of the damage and the potential cost of repairs.
Tips for Buying a TAU Auction Car
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when buying a TAU auction car:
- Set a Budget: Keep in mind the cost of repairs when setting your budget. A damaged car might be cheaper upfront, but repairs can add up quickly.
- Do Your Research: Learn as much as you can about the specific make and model you’re interested in. Some cars might be more expensive to repair than others.
- Consider Shipping Costs: If you’re importing the car, remember to factor in the cost of shipping and any import duties.
Conclusion
Buying a TAU auction car can be a great way to get a Japanese vehicle at a lower price, but it requires careful auction sheet verification and inspection. Make sure to use the chassis number to request detailed pictures and thoroughly analyze the car’s condition. By following these steps, you can ensure that you’re making a well-informed purchase and getting the best deal possible on your TAU auction car.