Cars
Buy your car for less: Save up to 50% at auction
Learn how to save money when buying a car at auctions and pay up to half the price safely and with effective strategies!
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Effective strategies to pay less and get a good deal.

Saving money when buying a car is a desire for many Brazilians — and it's possible to do so without sacrificing quality.
Vehicle auctions are gaining prominence as a viable alternative for those who want to pay less, sometimes with discounts of up to 50%.
In this article, you will understand how auctions work, what precautions to take, and where to find good opportunities to buy safely.
Freitas Auctioneer
Discover how to buy vehicles at Freitas Leiloeiro auctions safely, with variety and attractive prices.
Understand how vehicle auctions work.
Car auctions are events, either in person or online, where vehicles are sold through bidding, usually below market value.
These cars may come from banks, insurance companies, leasing companies, or even the government itself, such as the Internal Revenue Service.
The goal is to quickly dispose of repossessed, damaged, or surplus vehicles, offering attractive prices to buyers.
The main types of auctions available in Brazil
Knowing the different types of auctions helps you understand how each one works and to better prepare for the buying process.
Judicial auctions
These auctions are held by court order, usually to settle debts, resolve property divisions, or conclude probate proceedings.
The available cars may be in good condition and have reduced prices, but they may also have outstanding legal issues.
It is essential to read the notice carefully to understand the vehicle's status.
Extrajudicial auctions
Organized by banks and financial institutions, these auctions offer vehicles repossessed from defaulting customers.
The advantage is that the cars are usually in good condition, and the paperwork is generally up to date. They are good options for those seeking safety and convenience.
Insurance auctions
These involve cars recovered from accidents or thefts. They can be classified as repairable (when they can be put back into circulation) or as scrap (only for parts removal).
The prices are attractive, but it's important to carefully calculate the cost of repairs and consider whether the investment is worthwhile.
Official auctions
Conducted by public agencies, such as the Federal Revenue Service, these auctions include vehicles seized in tax operations.
Starting prices are quite low, but you need to be aware of the specific rules, as the regularization process may require more time and additional documentation.
Learn how to save money safely when buying at auction.
Participating in an auction requires attention to some key points. Check out these tips to help avoid mistakes and ensure a profitable purchase:
- Read the notice carefully: It contains all the auction rules, including additional fees, deadlines, and vehicle conditions.
- Check the car's history: Check the vehicle's registration (Renavam), any possible fines or restrictions before bidding.
- Set a value limit: Set a maximum budget and avoid acting impulsively during the competition.
- Carefully analyze the photos and descriptions: If you are unable to visit the yard in person, please observe the details in the images and reports.
- Consider the cost of repairs and regularization: Even with the discount, consider how much you will need to invest after the purchase.
These strategies help ensure that the economy doesn't turn into a headache later on.
How to recognize good opportunities amidst the bidding wars
Getting a good deal at an auction requires analysis and patience. Here's how to identify when a car is worth it:
- Mileage consistent with the year: Give preference to vehicles whose usage is consistent with their manufacturing age, which indicates good conservation status.
- No signs of serious incidents: Avoid cars with compromised structures. Even with a low price, the risk can be high.
- Documentation that can be regularized: Check if the car can be transferred normally, even if it has debts or outstanding issues.
- Price well below the Fipe Table value: A good margin between the bid and the market value can compensate for any eventual repairs.
- Good reputation for the brand and model: Cars from established brands tend to have more affordable maintenance and greater resale value.
- Clear and detailed report: The more technical information included in the tender, the more confident you will be when making your decision.
What happens after the purchase? Understand the next steps.
After winning a car at auction, it's necessary to follow a bureaucratic process to transfer and legalize the vehicle:
- Payment of the winning bid amount: Usually within 24 or 48 hours after the auction, via bank slip.
- Payment of fees and charges: Includes auctioneer's commission, administrative fees, and yard fees.
- Receipt of sales invoice: Essential document for property transfer.
- Registration at the Department of Motor Vehicles (Detran): It involves inspection, issuance of a new vehicle registration certificate (CRV), and settlement of any outstanding debts.
- Scheduling the pickup: Done after payment and completion of the paperwork.
Pay attention to deadlines and set aside extra money to cover these post-purchase expenses.
Three reliable auction houses to start your search.
If you're ready to start your research, check out three reliable options that operate vehicle auctions in Brazil:
Sodré Santoro Auctions
One of the most respected firms in the market, Sodré Santoro conducts judicial, extrajudicial, and insurance company auctions.
With decades of experience, it offers a modern digital platform and complete buyer support.
Furthermore, it has a large volume of vehicles available in different regions of the country, which makes it easier to compare and choose the best deal.
The company also publishes detailed reports and videos of the cars, which provides greater security for those who buy remotely.
Freitas Auctioneer
Freitas Leiloeiro is one of the leading auction houses in the Southeast region of Brazil, especially in São Paulo.
We work with vehicles from banks and finance companies, which guarantees a varied inventory and good chances of saving money.
Their online platform is intuitive, and bids generally start at affordable prices. Although competition is high, those who search carefully can find great opportunities.
The cars are usually in good condition and have easy registration, which attracts both first-time and experienced buyers.
Federal Revenue Service Auctions
Auctions held by the Federal Revenue Service are known for their extremely competitive prices.
In these places, it is possible to find vehicles seized or abandoned in tax operations, some in excellent condition.
The application process is entirely online, done through the organization's official website. It's necessary to be aware of the legal requirements and required documentation, but the cost-benefit ratio can be impressive.
It's a great option for those who have patience and are willing to follow stricter rules.
Want to learn more about Sodré Auctions?
Participating in auctions is a real way to save money when buying your car, potentially paying up to half the market value.
With attention to detail, financial planning, and a little strategy, you can acquire a vehicle in excellent condition for a price that fits your budget.
If you want to start off on the right foot, it's worth getting to know Sodré Santoro Auctions better.
The company has extensive experience in the sector, offers reliable platforms, and provides support for beginners.
Below, you'll find a complete review with everything you need to know to participate safely and take advantage of the best offers.
Sodré Santoro Auctions
Buy vehicles with up to 40% discount. Below-market prices at reliable online and in-person auctions.
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