Should You Buy a Used Car in March/April 2026?

Quick Facts About Buying a Used Car

• March/April 2026 remains a good time to buy a used car as new-vehicle prices continue to track upward.
• At the start of March, the average used car listing price was $25,287, up less than 1% from a year ago but down just over 1% from February.
• Used-vehicle inventory remains tight, with a 42-day supply at the beginning of March, down from the previous month.

With new car prices continuing to climb, boosted by import tariffs on new vehicles and parts, would-be buyers are turning to the used market, increasing demand and keeping supply tight. Last year saw stronger-than-expected used car sales, though Cox Automotive experts continue to predict that sales will decline slightly in 2026. If you’re already in the market for a used car, conditions haven’t shifted radically enough for us to recommend altering your decision.

However, many factors can influence whether it’s a good time to buy a used car, including available inventory and loan interest rates. The increasingly tight supply of used vehicles could make it difficult to find exactly what you want. Also, interest rates on used-vehicle loans are higher than those on new-car loans. Still, there are plenty of benefits to buying a used car right now.

• Used Car Market Overview
• How Much Does a Used Car Cost?
• Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Car
• Tips for Buying a Used Car in Today’s Market
• Bottom Line

Used Car Market Overview

The latest Cox Automotive days’ supply report shows that the used-vehicle supply was 42 days at the start of March. This number was down seven days from the revised January report level, and down two days from the same time last year. Supply remains tight compared to recent years and is getting tighter as demand for used vehicles increases. For example, it is down 11 days from the same period in 2022.

In February, 1.41 million used vehicles were sold at franchised and independent dealers, up 5.5% from the same month last year. Retail used-vehicle sales were higher in December than in the previous year. February averaged 50,400 vehicles sold per day. Compared to January’s 44,500, this figure is up 13%. This strong sales performance in February may be attributed to a number of factors. The harsh weather of late January slowed things down and many impacted locations are now recovering. Tax refund amounts are running higher on average than prior years, credit availability hit its highest level since 2022, and used cars continue to have the affordability edge over more expensive new vehicles.

At the start of 2026, Cox Automotive economists predicted a modest sales decline for the year due to economic pressures and constrained supply. This predicted slight decline in sales appears to still be on track, based on February’s data. Total used-vehicle inventory clocked in at 2.13 million at the end of February. This number is 1.6% higher than it was last year but down 2.6% from January’s 2.18 million.

Today’s used car market continues to suffer from constrained inventory. Manufacturers made 8 million fewer new vehicles from 2020 to 2022 due to COVID-19 supply disruptions. Unable to find a new car to buy or lease during that time, many buyers bought used cars instead, tightening the supply of used vehicles. With fewer leases in that timeframe, the used-vehicle supply will be lower for several years to come.

February also saw the start of war. “The auto market is staying strong through what is typically the strongest seasonal period of the year, even as the conflict in the Middle East casts a shadow over the future outlook. Tax refunds have continued to boost consumer buying power, with the average refund almost 11% higher than last year,” said Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jeremy Robb. “Additionally, our estimates suggest only 35% of all refunds have been sent back to consumers, lower than in recent years, which could mean we see an extended, positive impact on consumer spending patterns well into April.”

The price of oil will impact many economic sectors, though at this early stage it is difficult to predict the trajectory of the conflict’s impact. “For now, however, we see better trends in consumer spending patterns, as our retail data has shown five straight weeks of higher sales trends – for both the new and the used markets,” Robb said. “The bottom line: there are some longer-term market implications from the conflict in the Middle East, but for now, the data shows no signs of a slowdown in automotive retail, particularly in the used vehicle market.”

RELATED: Used Car Buying Guide

How Much Does a Used Car Cost?

The average used car listing price was $25,287 at the start of March, up less than 1% from the same time in 2025 but down just over 1% from February’s $25,570.

While average prices are remaining relatively steady, those looking for very affordable vehicles continue to see limited options. Used cars priced below $15,000 are showing only a 31-day supply — nine days below the overall average for the industry. The top five sellers in February were once again Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, accounting for nearly 50% of all used vehicles sold. Together, their sales had an average listing price of $23,578, which was nearly 7% below the average listing price for all used vehicles sold.

Buyers who aren’t paying in cash will need to finance their purchase. Consumer car loan interest rates have remained high for the past several years, making it harder to afford a used car. Use our car affordability calculator to see what you can buy within your budget. If you are in the market for a used car right now, narrow your search by filtering cars for sale by owner, at a dealership, or in a certain price range.

Data show that sales of certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles were up 2% year over year in February. February’s CPO sales are estimated at 207,263, up from 206,505 in January. CPO sales continue to outperform the broader new-vehicle market. CPO vehicles are typically lower-mileage cars in excellent condition, sold with the manufacturer’s backing. With an extra warranty, certified pre-owned vehicles can be a good deal, especially if they come with special financing and low down payments.

“As new car prices rise, considering an older used car can be a smart move,” said Autotrader senior editor Chris Hardesty. “If you do careful research and find a solid, reliable model, it should last many years.”

RELATED: What Is a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Car This Month

Tips for Buying a Used Car in Today’s Market

With several factors impacting used-car buying, use the tips below to find the right vehicle for your budget.

• RELATED: What Is More Important When Buying a Used Car: Miles or Age?

Bottom Line

You may find some good deals before the used car inventory becomes even tighter. That said, it might not be the exact vehicle you want. Always consider your personal circumstances when deciding whether it’s the right time for you to make the leap and buy a car. Research before deciding on buying used, and if it’s a newer used vehicle, be sure to check the prices of new models and compare costs.

Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication. Renee Valdes contributed to the report.