Key Takeaways As we start out 2026, used car pricing is showing anticipated seasonal movement, with one important twist. According to the December 2025 release of the Used Car Price Trends report from Carfax, year-end shifts are once again giving buyers more negotiating leverage. This time, however, the most meaningful changes are happening in hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs). Late-year moves from 2025 are offering early signals about where prices may go next. While some vehicle categories are holding re ...

Core Insights - The used car market experiences significant volatility at year-end, with dealerships eager to clear inventory and meet sales targets while buyers tend to reduce spending during the holiday season [2][4] Group 1: Price Trends - Used car prices are generally declining in several mainstream categories, including sedans, smaller SUVs, and some midsize crossovers, as inventory builds up and demand cools [5] - Hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) saw a notable price drop of 1.8% from October to November, influenced by the removal of the $4,000 federal tax credit for purchases made after September 30, 2025 [6] - Trucks and larger SUVs have shown resilience in pricing, remaining relatively stable compared to other categories, particularly in regions where utility and towing capacity are valued [7] Group 2: Year-over-Year Context - Used car prices reached an all-time high in 2022 due to pandemic-related supply chain disruptions, leading to a shortage of new cars and parts, followed by a rapid rebound in demand [8][10] - Although prices have decreased from their peak, they have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, which may contribute to perceptions of high costs among buyers [10] Group 3: Strategic Insights for Buyers - December is characterized by increased negotiating power for buyers, as market conditions are calmer and sellers are more motivated compared to January [9][11] - The focus for buyers should be on leveraging timing and category knowledge rather than expecting dramatic price drops, as informed buyers can still negotiate meaningful savings [11]