Used automotive costs had been dropping early in 2025, however that’s over. The common used automotive was listed for $25,180 in March — up roughly $170 from February. That small enhance is probably going the primary trace of a bigger one, the vanguard of a spike in demand pushed by steep tariffs on new automobiles.
The info come from vAuto, an organization that gives dealership administration software program. Kelley Blue E-book and vAuto share an proprietor, Cox Automotive.
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The nationwide provide of used automobiles fell to only 39 days because the month ended, down from an already-low 43 as March started.
The possible trigger? When new automotive costs spike, used automotive costs comply with as a result of would-be new automotive consumers flip to used automotive tons in search of one thing they will nonetheless afford.
President Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all new automobiles getting into the nation beginning April 3. That has raised the costs of many new automobiles. A second tariff is ready to comply with in early Could, protecting automotive components. Since automakers use overseas components in each car — even automobiles constructed within the U.S. — that may increase costs on the remaining.
Individuals have responded by speeding to purchase the automobiles nonetheless on seller tons at pre-tariff costs.
Used automotive gross sales rose 9% final month in response.
Affordability stays difficult for customers, and used-vehicle provide is extra constrained at cheaper price factors. Used automobiles beneath $15,000 are actually the toughest they’ve been to seek out since 2021, with solely 28 days’ provide. That’s seven days decrease than the identical time final yr and 11 days beneath the common for all used automobiles.
The highest 5 sellers of the month have been listed at a mean value of $23,778, about 6% beneath the common itemizing value for all automobiles bought. As soon as once more, Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan have been the top-selling manufacturers, accounting for 51% of all used automobiles bought.