Help and FAQ Page

Welcome to the Help and FAQ section of VintageMotorAuction.com!

A. Send yourself a password reset via email. From the sign-in page, select the 'Forgot password?' link or click here. Enter your email address associated with your account and click the [Submit] button. Check your email inbox. If the email does not arrive in your inbox, be sure to check your junk mail folder or spam filter. Click the reset link in that email. Choose a new password.

Q. How do I change my password?

A. You can change your password at any time. From your logged-in account, go to your "My Account" area. From the left-hand menu, select "Account > Password." Enter your current password. Choose your new password. Save your changes by clicking the [Change Password] button.

Q. Why am I not receiving any emails?

A. If you are not receiving expected site emails, please check the following: Check your junk mail folder or spam filter for the missing emails. Make sure that your email address, in your account settings, is entered correctly. Verify that your email client, such as Outlook, is not in “offline” mode. If you use a POP3 connection to retrieve your email, please verify that the emails were not downloaded to a different computer. If you are still not receiving our emails, please contact us.

Q. How do I change the email address tied to my account?

A. You can change your email address by editing your account details within your “My Account” area.

Q. Why do I get a warning message that my selected username is invalid?

A. Every user must select a username for their account. The username can only contain letters, numbers, underscores, and hyphens. We recommend replacing all [spaces] with either an underscore or hyphen. Incorrect: MY Username Correct: MY-Username Correct: MY_Username Alternatively, it might indicate that the username selected is already in use. Usernames are unique, and two users cannot share the same username. If you receive a notice during registration that your username is already in use, you will need to select a different username.

Q. Why does it say that my email address is already in use?

A. If you get a notice that your email address is already in use when creating an account, it indicates that you've previously created an account with us. If you can't recall your login details, please enter your email address into the forgotten password form. This way, you'll be able to reset your password and access your account.

Q. How Do I Participate in an Auction?

A. Once your account is created and verified, log in to view upcoming auctions. Review the auction terms and conditions. Place your bid on the desired items.

Q. How Can I Pay for a Winning Bid?

A. We accept credit cards and wire transfers. Credit cards are acceptable for amounts up to $5,000. For amounts over $5,000, please contact us for wire transfer instructions.

Q. Is the Site Secure?

A. Yes, we prioritize user security and employ robust encryption to protect your data. We do not share your information with third parties without your consent.

Q. Are There Buyer’s Premiums or Additional Fees?

A. Yes, a non-negotiable 5% buyer’s commission will be charged on the final bid of each lot sold. If shipping is required - 

Q. Can I Return an Item?

A. All items are sold "as-is," and returns are not accepted.

Q. Do You Ship Items?

A. Buyers are responsible for arranging the packing and shipping of their purchases. We do offer shipping or loading services at additional costs. We do offer contacts to packing and shipping companies.

Q. How Do I Contact Customer Support?

A. For any queries or assistance, please visit our Contact Us page and fill out the contact form or call us at 951-443-1000.

Q. How does the Auction process work?

Overview of the Auction Structure:

The auction is organized into multiple separate events, starting on separate days, with each event featuring up to 600 lots. Each of these events runs for a duration of 14 days, providing ample time to browse, research, and bid on the lots that interest you.

Bidding on Lots:

1. Registration: Before you can bid, you'll need to register for the auction. If you have not done so you may register here:

   Not a member yet? Sign up

2. Placing Bids: Once you've registered and found a lot you're interested in, you can place a bid directly on the item's page. Enter your bid amount in the designated field. If you're the highest bidder, you'll be notified via email or directly on the platform.

Understanding Event Closing Times:

• Each lot within an event will close at one-minute intervals on the final day of the event. This staggering ensures bidders have the opportunity to focus on individual lots as they close without the pressure of simultaneous closings.

Auto-Extension Feature:

• If a bid is placed within the final 2 minutes of a lot's closing time, the closing time for that specific lot will automatically extend by 10 minutes. This extension continues any time a bid is placed within the last 2 minutes, ensuring all interested bidders have a fair chance to participate without feeling rushed.

Proxy Bidding:

• Setting Up Proxy Bids: If you can’t monitor the auction live or prefer not to place bids manually each time you're outbid, you can set up a proxy bid. This is where you authorize the maximum amount you're willing to bid for a lot.
• How It Works: Once your proxy bid is set, the auction system will automatically bid on your behalf, up to your maximum limit, whenever someone else places a bid on the same lot. This process is incremental, meaning the system will only bid enough to keep you in the lead, up to your maximum amount.
• Advantages: Proxy bidding can help you manage your bids more efficiently, removing the need to constantly check the auction and allowing you to stay competitive without exceeding your budget.

Tips for Successful Bidding:

• Monitor Closely: Even if you use proxy bidding, it's wise to keep an eye on the auction as it nears its end, especially for lots you're deeply interested in. This will allow you to adjust your strategy if needed.
• Bid Smart: Consider your budget and the value of the item. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but remember, the goal is to win items at the best possible price.
• Check Notifications: Keep an eye on your email or auction account for notifications about your bid status, especially as lots start closing.

By understanding these aspects of the auction, you’ll be well-prepared to participate and increase your chances of winning your desired lots. Remember, the auction format is designed to be engaging and fair, providing equal opportunities for all bidders to win prized items. Happy bidding!