Buying a car from the USA: the top 10 myths
Most car enthusiasts want to own a good car, but not everyone can find the right model and afford to buy it at a high price. In that case, it’s better to choose a car from the U.S. because of the wide selection and low prices.
You can buy a car at auctions featuring used vehicles. This allows you to choose a car that suits your preferences in terms of design, budget, make, model, and features.
Anyone can participate in an auction—as a rule, this includes not only U.S. citizens but also residents of other countries. However, most car enthusiasts encounter myths that are misleading and hinder the purchase. Let’s figure out what’s true and what’s actually a myth.
Myths and Truths
Let’s examine the top 10 myths that are commonly encountered and concern car owners.
Myth #1: All American vehicles are “flooded” cars
This is partly true. Many cars are imported from the U.S., so there’s a chance you could end up buying a flood-damaged car. But this usually happens if you complete the transaction through an unverified seller or without a thorough vehicle inspection.
Flood-damaged cars are usually not listed at auctions. Additionally, before purchasing a vehicle, the buyer or their representative can verify the car using the VIN or conduct a thorough inspection. This way, you can ensure the car has never been submerged in water.
Myth #2: Stolen cars are shipped from the U.S. to other countries
This is indeed a myth. Before a car is shipped abroad, the relevant authorities conduct an inspection. Therefore, cars that have been involved in theft cases are not allowed to leave the U.S.
Myth #3: Cars are repaired after accidents and sold as new
There are cases where a buyer has purchased a “lemon.” But such situations are quite rare. To avoid this, it’s best to turn to professionals. The experts at Bex Auto know how to avoid falling for scammers’ tricks and buy the right car at auction.
Please note! If a car has been in an accident, it is sold as “damaged.” Vehicles are rarely fully restored due to the high cost involved.
Myth #4: You have to wait six months after buying a car
Buying a car and having it shipped to Ukraine takes some time:
- 6–8 weeks when ordering a car from an auction in the eastern United States;
- 12 weeks if the car is located in the western United States.
In the latter case, the car must be transported across the country and then across the ocean.
Myth #5. Car delivery is very expensive; it’s easier to buy a car domestically
This myth stems from intense competition. The cost of shipping a car from the U.S. is much lower than buying the same car on the European market or in Ukraine.
Myth #6: The car information and photos provided by the dealer are fake
Of course, this can indeed happen. But you can easily check the car’s condition and history using the VIN code.
Myth #7: The car is in poor condition
This isn’t true, because all cars in the U.S. undergo regular technical inspections—it’s a requirement of the authorities. Thanks to this, even cars with high mileage can compete with newer models.
Myth #8: Mileage is rolled back, and incorrect data is provided
In the U.S., such actions are a criminal offense, so American sellers don’t do this.
Myth #9: American cars aren’t suitable for local roads
If a car is well-built, durable, and adequately equipped, it can handle any road. It’s preferable for the vehicle to run on different types of gasoline or be a hybrid. Another option is electric cars. Even for our country, there are models that will suit your taste.
Myth #10: Low mileage on cars—there’s definitely a catch
According to statistics, Americans replace their cars every 2–5 years. Usually, people get tired of their cars quickly, or—as locals believe—the cars become unfit for driving. People in the U.S. usually have two or more cars in their garage, so they can afford to replace them frequently. Consequently, after just a few years of use, the mileage can’t be very high.
As we can see, most myths arise from unsuccessful DIY purchases or buying a car from an unscrupulous seller. To avoid this, it’s best to turn to trusted specialists who will help you find suitable options.
Fill out the contact form, and we’ll help you buy a car from the U.S.!
