Used Car Price Surge: A Golden Opportunity for Dealers

April registered used car prices are rising, but don’t be misled by the news. It’s not a cause for alarm; it’s a buying opportunity. The recent market action is less about volatility and more about timing, demand, and smart dealership strategy.

Here’s what’s going on – and how you can turn it to your benefit.

Used Car Values Gain Ground

The Manheim Used Vehicle Index rose to 208.2 in April, a 2.7 percent increase from March and an overall 4.9 percent gain compared with the same period last year. It’s a high watermark since October 2023 and an excellent indicator that the used car market is very much on the move.

Used car sales through retail channels were 13 percent greater on an annual basis, and the average listing price rose 2 percent over four weeks. Even as shoppers moved quickly to get ahead of potential price changes, dealerships continued to see healthy activity across the board.

April new car sales also rose 11.1 percent year-over-year – evidence that demand is not necessarily less. Buyers are incentivized, inventory is moving, and the market is stable.

Tariff Headlines? All Smoke, No Fire

Yes, new tariffs on foreign cars and auto parts were introduced this spring. But they haven’t stalled progress – they’ve merely accelerated the purchasing timeline. Better still, an executive order before adding offsets counteracts the impact of these tariffs on American-built automobiles, helping both manufacturers and dealers.

These changes give domestic inventory dealerships a strategic advantage. With fewer imports and more assistance for domestically manufactured vehicles, it’s the perfect time to feature cars with value and availability.

What Dealerships Can Do Now

This is momentum. Smart dealers are seizing the moment to reframe pricing strategy, remake online messaging, and reshuffle promotions with consumer behavior. Tightened wholesale supply means pricing leverage still exists, and well-positioned inventory will continue to sell.

By staying proactive and keen, dealerships can ride these changes to drive value, boost sales, and sustain traffic levels.

Strong Automotive Is on Your Side

This is what we do best. Strong Automotive empowers dealerships to translate market movement into quantifiable success. You may require SEO assistance, more intelligent campaign targeting, or fresh messaging strategies – we’re here to help you address the moment. The market’s moving quickly, but with the right partner, that’s good. Let’s discuss how we can keep you ahead of the pack.