Buying Used Getting Unusually Expensive
Carfax research finds little difference in price from some models’ new units

The 2023 Honda Civic is priced close to its 2025 counterpart in Carfax's recent listings.
Honda
Used-vehicle prices are getting so high that some models are approaching new-car levels.
A Carfax study found that the average used-vehicle price has reached its highest point in a year and a half to nearly $25,000, or about $1,300 more.
The vehicle data and listings provider researched its listings from September and October to uncover the phenomenon. Limited used inventory is driving the price inflation, said Carfax, which indicated supply is still under prepandemic levels due to a drop in new-vehicle sales during the peak Covid period.
“It’s rare for used and new car values to be this close,” said Carfax Editor in Chief Patrick Olsen.
Though vehicles generally lose 40% of their value after three years of ownership, Carfax determined that some well-selling models’ 2023 units are listed at prices within about 10% of their new 2025 counterparts. They include the Honda Civic and the Ford Bronco, Kia Seltos and Toyota Corolla Cross SUVs.
Taking the Civic as an example, Carfax calculates that the average price of a 2023 unit is at $24,300, compared to $27,400 for a 2025 Civic, translating to just a $25 monthly payment difference for buyers making a 10% down payment and financing over 72 months.
The company said automakers and dealers are offering consumers financing deals to juice new-vehicle buying in the inflated economy.
More Industry

Holman Opens New Lexus Dealership
Located in the heart of Clark County, Lexus of Vancouver features a multi-level showroom, more than 30 service bays, an indoor drive for drop-off and pick-up and a fleet of courtesy vehicles.
Read More →
Denver Ferrari Store in New Group
The recent sale of the dealership by Lithia adds to an expanding stable for a family-owned collection of franchises.
Read More →
Nissan Reports Significant Sales Growth
Following the release of Nissan’s 2025 fiscal year report, the automaker announced that its retail-first approach has led to a significant jump in dealer sales.
Read More →
Dealer Debrief: Effective Safety Features
In this week's debrief, host Lauren Lawrence covers a positive safety study from GM and the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute and a business acquisition by Cox Automotive.
Read More →
Recalled Autos Spike in Q1
The volume of affected units continued to rise as more software-focused models present different types of problems, creating complex risk, Sedgwick reports.
Read More →
Program Brings Wheels to Families in Need
NADA is taking Vehicles for Change’s Keys to Independence Program national so auto dealers can help families in need gain access to reliable transportation.
Read More →
EFG Aims to Help Dealers Face Rising Reinsurance Volatility
Rising claims severity, higher repair costs and delayed reserve adjustments are putting new pressure on auto dealerships' reinsurance programs.
Read More →
Hybrids in Focus
Another automaker announces plans to dedicate more resources in the U.S. to the now popular power train as it also looks to minimize trade tariff costs.
Read More →
IIHS Adds to Safety Rankings
A midsize Hyundai and a small Toyota have joined the nonprofit's 2026 Top Safety Pick+ award rankings, thanks to improved crash test results and crash-prevention measures.
Read More →
Dealer Debrief: FTC and Pricing
In this week's debrief, host Lauren Lawrence covers long loan terms, the FTC's crackdown on pricing, and disaster prep for dealerships.
Read More →