Have you ever injured a body part and decided to keep using it instead of going to the doctor to get it fixed? The body part might not be completely broken, but it’s not 100% safe to use. This is similar to an in-op vehicle at an auto auction.
While Big Valley Auto Auction doesn’t specialize in fixing injuries, we do have over 15 years of experience in dealing with in-op vehicles.
In this article, you will learn what in-op means at an auto auction, what makes a vehicle an in-op, if it’s possible to restore an in-op vehicle, and if you can benefit from buying an in-op vehicle.
After reading this article, you’ll have the information needed to know what an in-op vehicle is and if it’s a vehicle you’d want to buy when attending an auto auction.
What Does In-Op Mean at an Auto Auction?
The term “In-Op” is short for “inoperable”. This means the vehicle has an issue that prevents it from being safely driven through the sale.
What Makes a Vehicle an In-Op?
The answer to the following question will determine whether a vehicle meets the criteria of being an inoperable vehicle:
"Can the unit be safely driven through the lane? "If the answer is "No," then your vehicle is inoperable. An example of an inoperable vehicle is a car that runs well, but has an issue with the brakes or suspension. This makes it inoperable, because it cannot be safely driven.
Individuals themselves can determine whether or not their vehicle is inoperable based on the same criteria. If you know your vehicle cannot be driven safely, you’ll know it's inoperable.
Can I Restore an In-Op Vehicle?
Yes, it is possible to restore an inoperable vehicle. You can do so by repairing the feature(s) that prevent the vehicle from being able to be driven safely, such as the brakes or suspension.
Can I Benefit From Buying an In-Op Vehicle?
Just because a vehicle cannot be used safely doesn’t mean there is no use for it. If you are a dealer who sells used vehicles or parts, then you could benefit from purchasing an in-op vehicle.
However, in-op vehicles do not qualify for frame checks at Big Valley Auto Auction.
Should I Buy an In-Op Vehicle From Big Valley Auto Auction?
If you’re a dealer who is more interested in buying a vehicle that has no issues that make it unsafe to ride, then an in-op vehicle might not be for you. However, if you’re a dealer who sells used car parts or fixes up cars, then in-ops could be a good choice for you.
Whether you’re new to auto auctions and weren’t sure what “in-op” meant or you’re an experienced dealer considering buying an in-op vehicle, you can use this article as a reference for making that decision.
Now that you know what an in-op vehicle is, you can learn what other types of vehicles you’ll see running at Big Valley Auto Auction.
