Also, are these viable alternative to going to a car dealership? I hear the cars tend to be sold for a lot cheaper.

Check in your local newspaper for Police auto auctions.

Do a Google search...

There are top 5 police auction sites:http://economy-car.infoPittsburgh area included.

go to the city web page or call the accounting department of the city.

try http://thegovernmentauctions.org They have been on the news and are supposedly the most popular

unless your ready for a to play the impound lottery don't do it. Many people don't bother to get cars out of the pound for a reason. Unless your a mechanic and have xray vision don't waste your time. You have a warranty when you buy from a dealer. We usually look to those types of auctions for car parts . You have better odds of winning power ball then getting a good car from a place like that. If you have the money to gamble with then do it. Most people I know do not.