All articles tagged with #used cars
A recent analysis highlights five Lexus models known for exceptional durability, including the ES 350, RX 350, LS 430, GX 470, and IS 350. These vehicles, often sharing platforms with Toyota counterparts, are praised for long lifespans and minimal mechanical issues, though specific generations and maintenance requirements vary.
Cox Automotive lowered its forecast for used vehicle price increases to 0.2% for 2026, citing high fuel costs and rising interest rates. While wholesale prices fell 0.6% in September, electric and compact cars gained value, offsetting declines in larger SUVs and trucks.
Affordable used cars are increasingly scarce as the market skews toward higher-priced, newer models. While three-year-old vehicles, once the ideal value sweet spot, now average $33,000, older, cheaper cars are holding their value due to strong demand. This imbalance is driven by a persistent supply shortage and rising maintenance costs for aging vehicles, forcing budget-conscious buyers to compromise on age or mileage.
A low-mileage 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T with a 5.7L Hemi and a six-speed manual, just 23,000 miles, is listed for $25,000 in North New Jersey. It features a bold flame-painted exterior, a shaker hood with a Cervinis cold-air intake (claimed to add up to 15 hp), aftermarket wheels, a large rear wing, extra gauges, and a largely stock interior with modern amenities. The piece calls it a turnkey, well-kept package but questions whether the aftermarket mods and the price justify the value, noting that the $25K tag sits near the price of newer, more powerful Challengers.
Edmunds data show the average price of a 3-year-old used car in Q2 hit a record $32,461, driven by a persistent post-pandemic shortage, trim inflation, and a skew toward higher-trim models. As affordable options age and carry more miles across price bands, buyers face a tougher market even as new cars stay expensive. Cross-border trade rules and tariff talks under USMCA complicate supply, potentially pushing automakers toward automation and reshaping where cars are built.
An auto-news guide highlights five Lexus engines with notable reliability issues, including the 1MZ-FE sludge problem, the 4GR-FSE carbon buildup, the 1UR-FE/1UR-FSE 4.6L V8 valve-spring and fuel-sensor issues, the 2AZ-FXE hybrid’s oil consumption, and the V35A-FTS turbo’s crank bearing risk; while many cases have been addressed by recalls or warranty programs, used-car buyers should scrutinize models like LX 600, IS 250, ES 300, RX 300, HS 250h, GX 460, and LS 460.
Used-car prices fell 1.6% in April from March—the first drop this year—as gas prices rose amid Middle East tensions, with affordability boosting demand for older and electric vehicles; the Manheim index is up 1.8% year over year, the average used-vehicle listing is about $25,390, and EVs still command roughly a $9,200 premium, aided by spring tax refunds.
High gas prices driven by geopolitical tensions are pushing car buyers toward electric vehicles, and The New York Times highlights 11 EVs to consider, noting that home charging is a major advantage and that there are bargains to be found in the used-EV market.
The piece highlights the Audi RS3 as a standout used-performance buy: pre-facelift 2016 models can be found for roughly $26k–$36k with high mileage, about the price of a base Honda Civic, while later facelifted cars cost more. New RS3s start around $67k, and TT RS pricing isn’t as aggressive. It’s a tempting way to get near-R8-like thrills for far less, but buyers should weigh aging-Audi maintenance costs and reliability risks.
Expert Doug DeMuro predicts that used Tesla Cybertrucks could drop to $35,000 in 18 months due to declining value and high inventory, which would represent a significant depreciation from their original prices, potentially transforming the vehicle's market perception from a luxury item to an affordable work truck.
The Ford Shelby GT350, a highly praised 526-horsepower muscle car known for its exceptional handling and unique Voodoo V8 engine, is now available at used car prices comparable to a Honda Accord, making it an affordable entry into high-performance driving, though potential buyers should be cautious of its reliability issues and high maintenance costs.
The article highlights that a high-performance Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG, with 355 horsepower, can now be purchased for less than the price of a used Nissan Versa, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a powerful yet affordable daily driver, despite some maintenance considerations.
The 2020 Mazda Miata has retained about 64% of its value after five years, with depreciation rates varying by trim, and it compares favorably to similar sports cars like the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ in terms of value retention.
CarMax's stock dropped about 10% after the company announced a weak fiscal outlook and the unexpected resignation of CEO Bill Nash, with interim leadership appointed and a focus on improving sales and profitability amid ongoing struggles.
Used car prices in the US have surged due to supply chain disruptions, increased demand, higher new car prices, and tariffs, making it difficult for consumers to find affordable options and resetting expectations for car buying in the current market.