When will used car prices drop

When will used car prices drop, and when is the best buying time? From month to month, used car prices can change significantly depending on the season, the month of the year, the weather, and even the day of the week! By understanding what influences car prices and when different pricing changes occur, you’ll have a better idea of how you can be proactive in ensuring you get the best deal possible when purchasing your next used vehicle. 

Why Used Car Prices Will Soon Drop

How much are you willing to pay for a used car? It’s a reasonable question, and the answer might shock you. Today, the average price for a new vehicle is about $32,000. However, even after five years of regular maintenance and proper upkeep, that $32,000 vehicle will depreciate to about one-third of its original value. This depreciation means it would be worth roughly $10,000 on today’s market. 

But in 2020 (less than two years from now), cars are expected to depreciate by half—meaning that a five-year-old sedan could conceivably go for half its current worth on the secondary market.

When Will Used Car Prices drop? Here’s What Industry Experts Say

Gas prices are rising, impacting how many people buy a new vehicle rather than a pre-owned one. However, the opposite can be true for those who have their eyes on a particular make and model: When gas gets cheaper, those tend to fly off the lot. 

After surveying industry experts from companies like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds, we compiled a list of when we can expect used car prices to drop and what makes an old model start climbing in price again. 

When Will Used Car Prices drop? Here’s What Experts Are Saying

Experts believe the gradual dip in US auto sales may signal a declining market. Lower-than-expected figures for December and January, combined with data from credit reporting agency Experian indicating that new-car loans for subprime borrowers had reached their highest level since 2005, prompted Moody’s to update its forecast for global auto demand downward. As a result, the risk of a downturn is elevated and growing, said Kathrin Muehlbronner, an analyst at Moody’s. Lower-than-expected sales in January show too much supply relative to demand. To find out what some experts predict the future will bring, check out their opinions below.

When Will Used-Car Prices drop? 3 Things Car Shoppers Should Know

Many new cars are sitting on dealership lots, waiting for the sales-crazy spring market to cool off. However, by next year, it is estimated that only 700,000 new cars will be produced in the United States–less than half the number two years ago. This reduced supply of cars means we could see a moderate price increase in 2018. But even when there is an increase, if you buy your car responsibly and plan by negotiating well and leasing instead of buying outright, you should be okay.

1. Buying Habituated Isn’t What It Utilized to Be

Focusing on fuel efficiency and quality, it might seem like the best way to go with a used car is to buy one at least five years old. But just because a vehicle has passed this magic milestone doesn’t mean it’s ready for retirement. So when will new car prices drop? With what appears to be increased demand, continued incentives, and expanding ranges of newer models – not any time soon. The answer might not be as clear-cut as you’d hope; nobody knows exactly when (or if) the automakers will start pushing their residual values down due to an oversupply of cars on the market. I’m sorry; I wish I had more specific information for you.

2. Cars Exist Spiking Better Than Trucks, SUVs

In the last few months, trucks and SUVs have seen sharp price decreases. However, we see that the opposite is happening for cars. The supply of these vehicles has increased, so dealers offer a lower price to sell them. This trend might lead some consumers to think it is time to buy a new vehicle while they can still get a good deal on their trade-in.

3. Older Used Cars

When purchasing a used car, consumers should consider the make and model of the vehicle, the condition of the car, mileage, accessories, and warranties. The good news is that today’s economic conditions have created favorable conditions for purchasers. Interest rates are historically low, allowing consumers to purchase cars more efficiently with lower monthly payments. In addition, automakers are offering new incentives to attract buyers by dropping MSRP on vehicles close to manufacturers’ suggested retail price (MS). Leasing allows consumers to drive away in a new vehicle while taking advantage of favorable depreciation rates that can be obtained through tax deductions. For some people, leasing also offers flexibility when considering changes in life circumstances.