Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic powerhouse, is a hub for car enthusiasts and bargain hunters seeking quality vehicles at competitive prices. Car auctions in Johannesburg offer an exciting opportunity to purchase everything from luxury sedans and family SUVs to commercial vehicles and bank-repossessed cars, often at a fraction of retail costs. With reputable auction houses like Aucor, Motus Auto Auctions, and Bidvest Burchmore’s, buyers can access a diverse range of vehicles, including used, salvage, and non-running models. Whether you’re a first-time bidder, a dealer, or looking to flip a fixer-upper, Johannesburg’s auction scene is vibrant and accessible. This guide explores the top auction houses, key tips for bidding, and practical advice for navigating the process, ensuring you drive away with a great deal in the City of Gold.
Auction Cars in Johannesburg
Top Auction Houses for Cars in Johannesburg
1. Aucor Johannesburg
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Address: 53 Sterling Road, Kosmosdal, Samrand, Johannesburg, 0157
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Contact: +27 (11) 237-4444 | [email protected] | aucor.com
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Auction Schedule: Weekly vehicle auctions, typically Wednesdays at 10:30 AM; check aucor.com for 2025 dates
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Price Range: Starting bids from R20,000; luxury cars up to R500,000+
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Highlights:
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Overview: Aucor, a leading auctioneer since 1968, hosts regular vehicle auctions in Johannesburg, featuring bank repos, fleet cars, and luxury models. Rated 4.3/5 on Google Reviews, it’s known for transparency and a wide selection, including 2019 Volkswagen Polo TSI (R100,000–R150,000) and 2018 Mercedes-Benz Vito (R200,000–R300,000).
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Types of Vehicles: Passenger cars, bakkies, SUVs, commercial vehicles, and non-runners (e.g., 2014 Volvo S60 T4, non-runner, R50,000 starting bid).
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Bidding Options: Live, online, and webcast auctions via aucor.com. Online registration requires FICA documents (ID, proof of address) and a refundable deposit (R5,000–R10,000).
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Buyer’s Commission: 6% on runners, 8% on non-runners, 10% on commercial vehicles; 0% on Standard Bank vehicles.
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Promotions: “10% off buyer’s commission for first-time bidders” (valid until July 31, 2025).
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Why Choose: Ideal for diverse vehicle options and professional service, with online bidding for convenience.
2. Motus Auto Auctions
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Address: 19 Herman Street, Meadowdale, Germiston, Johannesburg, 1614
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Contact: +27 (10) 492-3700 | [email protected] | motusaa.co.za
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Auction Schedule: Bi-weekly auctions, Mondays at 11:00 AM or 5:00 PM; next auctions May 5 and 19, 2025
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Price Range: R30,000–R600,000
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Highlights:
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Overview: Motus Auto Auctions is a trusted platform for retail and commercial vehicles, offering online and in-person bidding. Rated 4.2/5 on Google, it’s praised for quality cars like 2021 Renault Kwid (R80,000–R120,000) and 2019 Ford Ranger XLT (R250,000–R350,000).
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Types of Vehicles: Used cars, bank repos, fleet vehicles, and salvage cars. Includes popular models like Hyundai Tucson and Toyota Hilux.
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Bidding Options: Register online with FICA documents; no deposit required for viewing. Online auctions via motusaa.co.za allow remote bidding.
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Buyer’s Commission: 7% on passenger vehicles, 10% on commercial; additional VAT applies.
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Promotions: “Free registration for May 2025 auctions” (valid until May 31, 2025).
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Why Choose: Perfect for first-time bidders and dealers seeking credible auctions with a user-friendly online platform.
3. Bidvest Burchmore’s
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Address: 3 Nicol Road, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 2007
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Contact: +27 (11) 622-2244 | [email protected] | bidvestburchmores.co.za
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Auction Schedule: Weekly auctions, Thursdays at 10:00 AM; check bidvestburchmores.co.za for updates
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Price Range: R50,000–R800,000
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Highlights:
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Overview: Bidvest Burchmore’s specializes in wholesale-to-public auctions, offering premium vehicles like 2025 Nissan Navara PRO-2X (R700,000+) and Golf 7 GTI DSG (R300,000–R400,000). Rated 4.1/5 on Google for its upscale inventory.
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Types of Vehicles: Luxury cars, SUVs, bakkies, and used vehicles in good condition, often with full service histories.
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Bidding Options: In-person and online bidding via bidvestburchmores.co.za. Registration requires ID, proof of address, and a R5,000 refundable deposit.
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Buyer’s Commission: 6.5% on vehicles under R500,000, 5% above; VAT included.
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Promotions: “5% off commission for online bidders” (valid until June 30, 2025).
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Why Choose: Best for premium and near-new vehicles, with a reputation for quality and service.
4. Auction Operation
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Address: Cnr Main Reef & Granville Road, Robertville, West Rand, Johannesburg, 1709
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Contact: +27 (11) 672-2222 | [email protected] | auctionoperation.co.za
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Auction Schedule: Weekly repo and fleet auctions, Tuesdays at 10:30 AM; next auction May 6, 2025
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Price Range: R20,000–R400,000
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Highlights:
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Overview: Auction Operation is renowned for its repo and fleet vehicle auctions, featuring over 150 cars weekly, like 2007 Nissan Hardbody (non-runner, R30,000 starting bid). Rated 4.0/5 on Google for competitive pricing.
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Types of Vehicles: Bank-repossessed cars, non-runners, and commercial vehicles, ideal for budget buyers and repair enthusiasts.
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Bidding Options: Live and online bidding via live.auctionoperation.co.za. Registration requires FICA documents and a R5,000 deposit.
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Buyer’s Commission: 8% on passenger vehicles, 12% on non-runners; VAT applies.
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Promotions: “Free viewing for online registrants” (valid until August 31, 2025).
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Why Choose: Great for bargain hunters seeking affordable repos and salvage vehicles.
5. Park Village Auctions
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Address: 221 Main Road, Martindale, Johannesburg, 2092
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Contact: +27 (11) 789-4375 | [email protected] | parkvillageauctions.co.za
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Auction Schedule: National webcast auctions, Wednesdays at 10:00 AM; next auction May 7, 2025
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Price Range: R25,000–R500,000
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Highlights:
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Overview: Park Village Auctions, a Standard Bank partner, hosts national vehicle auctions with a focus on repos and fleet cars. Rated 4.3/5 on Google, it features vehicles like 2019 Jaguar E-Pace (R250,000–R350,000).
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Types of Vehicles: Repossessed cars, commercial vehicles, and used cars from banks and liquidations.
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Bidding Options: Webcast and online bidding via parkvillageauctions.co.za. Requires FICA compliance and a R10,000 deposit.
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Buyer’s Commission: 7% on vehicles, plus VAT; 0% on select bank repos.
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Promotions: “10% off commission for groups of 5+ bidders” (valid until July 31, 2025).
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Why Choose: Reliable for bank-repossessed vehicles with national reach and competitive pricing.
Why Choose Auction Cars in Johannesburg?
Car auctions in Johannesburg offer unique advantages:
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Affordability: Vehicles often sell 20–50% below retail, with starting bids as low as R20,000 for repos or non-runners.
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Variety: From luxury models like Mercedes-Benz C180 to budget-friendly Renault Kwid, auctions cater to all needs and budgets.
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Transparency: Reputable houses like Aucor and Motus provide detailed catalogs and viewing days, ensuring informed bidding.
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Accessibility: Online bidding platforms make auctions available to local and international buyers, with FICA-compliant registration.
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Opportunity for Profit: Non-runners and salvage cars attract mechanics and flippers, who repair and resell for profit (e.g., 2006 Nissan X-Trail, R40,000 starting bid).
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Trusted Platforms: Auctioneers are SAIA-registered, guaranteeing ethical practices and buyer protection.
Auctions attract first-time buyers (40%), dealers (30%), and repair enthusiasts (20%), making Johannesburg a hotspot for vehicle deals.
How to Find and Bid on Auction Cars in Johannesburg
To navigate the auction process:
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Visit Auction Websites: Check aucor.com, motusaa.co.za, bidvestburchmores.co.za, auctionoperation.co.za, or parkvillageauctions.co.za for catalogs, schedules, and registration.
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Attend Viewing Days: Inspect vehicles in person (e.g., Aucor: day prior, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM) or view online catalogs for photos and condition reports.
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Register to Bid: Submit FICA documents (ID, proof of address) and a refundable deposit (R5,000–R10,000) online or on-site. Registration is free at Motus.
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Set a Budget: Stick to your limit to avoid overbidding, as auctions can be fast-paced. Include buyer’s commission and VAT in calculations.
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Choose Bidding Method: Opt for live, online, or webcast bidding. Online platforms like live.auctionoperation.co.za allow remote participation.
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Follow Social Media: @AucorAuction, @PVAuctions, and @auction_aop on X post real-time updates on auctions and vehicles (e.g., May 6, 2025, Auction Operation).
Register 24–48 hours in advance to ensure FICA approval. Arrive early for live auctions to secure a spot.
Latest Promotions and Auction Events
Johannesburg’s auction houses offer enticing deals:
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Aucor: “10% off buyer’s commission for first-time bidders” (valid until July 31, 2025). Vehicle auction on May 5, 2025, featuring 2019 Ford Ranger.
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Motus Auto Auctions: “Free registration for May 2025 auctions” (valid until May 31, 2025). Next auctions May 5 and 19, 2025.
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Bidvest Burchmore’s: “5% off commission for online bidders” (valid until June 30, 2025). Weekly auctions with premium cars like Toyota Hilux.
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Auction Operation: “Free viewing for online registrants” (valid until August 31, 2025). Repo auction on May 6, 2025, with 150+ cars.
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Park Village Auctions: “10% off commission for groups of 5+” (valid until July 31, 2025). National webcast on May 7, 2025.
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Seasonal Events: Creative Rides’ “May Madness” online auction (May 5–7, 2025) features budget cars.
Subscribe to newsletters or follow @AucorAuction and @PVAuctions on X for updates.
Tips for Bidding on Auction Cars in Johannesburg
Maximize your success with these strategies:
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Inspect Vehicles: Attend viewing days or study online catalogs to assess condition, especially for non-runners (e.g., 2014 Volvo S60, unknown damage).
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Research Market Value: Use cars.co.za or autotrader.co.za to compare auction prices with retail (e.g., 2021 Renault Kwid retail: R140,000, auction: R80,000).
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Understand Commissions: Factor in buyer’s commissions (5–12%) and VAT to avoid budget surprises.
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Check FICA Compliance: Submit ID and proof of address early to avoid registration delays.
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Bid Strategically: Start low and avoid emotional bidding. Online platforms show real-time bids, helping you stay competitive.
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Verify Vehicle History: Request service records or run a Carfax check for used cars to confirm no major accidents.
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Plan Transport: Arrange a driver or tow truck for non-runners post-purchase, as auction houses don’t provide delivery.
For first-timers, start with online auctions at Motus for a low-pressure experience.
Safety and Customer Service
Johannesburg’s auction houses prioritize safety and support:
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Safety Measures: Auction venues like Aucor and Motus have secure parking and on-site security. Stay vigilant for pickpockets in crowded live auctions.
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Staff Support: Knowledgeable staff guide bidders, earning Aucor a 4.3/5 Google rating. Auction Operation’s team is praised for clarity on non-runner conditions.
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Customer Service: Contact Aucor (+27 (11) 237-4444), Motus (+27 (10) 492-3700), or Park Village (+27 (11) 789-4375) for inquiries. Social media (@auction_aop) responds quickly.
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Accessibility: Venues are accessible via Uber or Gautrain (e.g., Samrand Station to Aucor, 10 km). Online bidding ensures inclusivity for remote buyers.
For issues, escalate to management via email (e.g., [email protected]) for prompt resolution.
Maintaining Your Auction Car Experience
To ensure a smooth process:
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Review Terms: Read auction rules on aucor.com or auctionoperation.co.za to understand buyer responsibilities (e.g., payment within 48 hours).
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Secure Payment: Use bank transfers or cards; avoid cash payments. Auction Operation’s single FNB account ensures safety.
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Inspect Post-Purchase: Check your vehicle immediately after winning to report discrepancies within 24 hours.
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Share Feedback: Post reviews on Google or Tripadvisor to improve services. Aucor and Motus actively address feedback.
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Maintain Your Car: Budget for repairs on non-runners or repos to restore value, especially for resale.
Proper preparation and follow-through maximize your auction success.
The Future of Auction Cars in Johannesburg
Johannesburg’s car auction industry is evolving:
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Digital Growth: Online platforms like motusaa.co.za and live.auctionoperation.co.za will dominate by 2026, with live tracking and mobile bidding.
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Eco-Friendly Focus: Auction houses are listing more hybrid and electric vehicles, aligning with South Africa’s green trends (e.g., 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid).
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Increased Repo Supply: Economic pressures may boost bank-repossessed car auctions, offering more budget options in 2025.
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Regional Expansion: Aucor and Park Village plan to integrate Cape Town and Durban auctions into Johannesburg’s webcasts for wider access.
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Buyer Education: Motus and Bidvest are launching 2025 webinars to guide first-time bidders, enhancing transparency.
Stay updated via aucor.com, yomzansi.com, or @AucorAuction for auction schedules and trends.
Conclusion
Auction cars in Johannesburg offer an affordable, exciting way to own quality vehicles, from bank repos to luxury models. With trusted auction houses like Aucor, Motus Auto Auctions, and Bidvest Burchmore’s, buyers can access diverse cars through live or online bidding. Register early, inspect vehicles, and stick to your budget to secure great deals. Leverage promotions, use Uber for safe travel, and verify FICA compliance for a seamless experience. This guide equips you to navigate Jozi’s vibrant auction scene, ensuring you drive away with a vehicle that fits your needs and budget in the City of Gold.