Apr 9, 2015 2:15 PM

Gallery: Inside the Swift, Strategic World of Used Car Auctions

Ryan Young for WIRED
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Most cars are sold within 30 seconds, as the auctioneer speeds through the bids, barking “Hip!” with each raise.
Ryan Young for WIRED
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He doesn’t need much of a sign to think you want to jack up the price, and I’m just here to watch. A wink, nod, or twitch of the finger is plenty to join the fray.

It's a busy scene, with a dozen or so cars being sold off at any given moment.
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It's a busy scene, with a dozen or so cars being sold off at any given time.
Ryan Young for WIRED
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Before cars are are auctioned off, they get a close look from interested parties.

Ryan Young for WIRED
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The range of vehicles is enormous, from high-end sports cars to beat up Chevy vans.
Ryan Young for WIRED
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Nearly 1,000 dealers show up to bid on the cars.

Ryan Young for WIRED
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Bidding is a tricky calculation, considering how much the car’s really worth and how much you can sell it for.
Ryan Young for WIRED
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The fact that it’s tax season makes everything more valuable: With rebate money in hand, customers can pay more.

Ryan Young for WIRED
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It's best to check a car for things like frame damage and a busted transmission before committing your money.
Ryan Young for WIRED
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Most cars attract 5 to 15 interested buyers.

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