Frequently Asked Questions
Trade Vehicle Sales – Clear Pricing – No Pressure
Burnside Vehicle Auctions is a trade auction vehicle sales centre offering a wide range of cars, vans and commercial vehicles at auction-level prices.
All vehicles are sold strictly under trade terms unless otherwise stated.
What is Burnside Vehicle Auctions?
Burnside Vehicle Auctions is a trade vehicle sales centre where you can buy cars, vans and commercial vehicles at auction-level prices but with a more straightforward process: view in person, inspect properly, and buy at a fixed price.
Is this a traditional auction with bidding?
No. We operate fixed pricing — no bidding wars. The price displayed is the price you pay (plus any clearly displayed fees).
If multiple buyers want the same vehicle at the same time, the vehicle will be offered to the highest paying buyer.
Can I view vehicles in person?
Yes — and it’s required. You can:
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View vehicles in person
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Take your time inspecting them
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Arrange AA / RAC inspections
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Test drive (subject to insurance)
We do things differently from many post-Covid auction models that became online-only with limited viewing.
Do I have to view the vehicle before buying?
Yes. All vehicles must be physically viewed by the buyer (or their representative) before purchase.
We do not provide condition opinions over the phone. Your buying decision must be based on your own inspection.
Strictly no sales without viewing.
Can I test drive a vehicle?
Yes, test drives are allowed but you must be insured.
On arrival, simply quote the registration number and our team will provide the keys (subject to site process and availability).
Can I arrange an AA or RAC inspection?
Absolutely. We actively encourage inspections:
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No time limits on viewing
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Bring a mechanic if you wish
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AA & RAC inspections welcome
What do the vehicle colour categories mean?
We use a clear colour-coded condition system:
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🔴 Red – Non-runner
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🔵 Blue – Unprepared, unwarranted vehicle (trade sale)
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🟢 Green – Fully prepared and warranted vehicle (sold via our parent company SVS Ltd, located on the same site. Extended warranties available.)
Are vehicles HPI checked?
Yes. All vehicles are HPI checked for:
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Outstanding finance (cleared by us if present)
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Previous insurance loss (e.g. Category S — clearly declared)
What does “Starts and Drives” mean?
If a vehicle starts and drives, it will be advertised as “Starts and Drives.”
Buyers should still fully inspect the vehicle themselves (or via a representative/inspection service).
Is the mileage guaranteed?
No. Mileage is not guaranteed — buyers must carry out their own checks and satisfy themselves before purchase.
Can I reserve a vehicle with a deposit?
Yes. A £500 deposit secures a vehicle for 5 working days.
Full payment must be completed within this period.
What types of vehicles do you stock?
Stock changes daily and may include:
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Cars
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Vans
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Campervans & motorhomes
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Trucks & lorries
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Tractors
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Classic vehicles
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Occasional scrap vehicles
Are your vehicles sold with warranty?
Trade sales are sold as seen with no warranty, unless clearly stated otherwise.
🟢 Green category vehicles are prepared and warranted and sold via SVS Ltd (parent company on the same site). Extended warranties are available on those vehicles.
What does “trade terms” mean for buyers?
By purchasing from Burnside Vehicle Auctions, you are agreeing to a trade sale. This means:
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Vehicles are sold as seen
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No warranties or guarantees are provided (unless stated)
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No refunds or returns once the vehicle leaves our site
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Implied terms such as satisfactory quality or fitness for purpose do not apply
All buyers must read and sign a Trade Sale Invoice Agreement at the point of purchase.
Full Terms & Conditions are available from our office.
Why do you operate this way?
Traditional auctions changed after Covid — limited viewing and online-only bidding became common. Burnside Vehicle Auctions offers a clearer alternative: in-person viewing, proper inspection time, transparent fixed pricing, and no pressure.