A current saying in the real estate industry now also applies to the automotive industry: it’s a great time to buy a car.

Particularly a used vehicle.

April 2008 was the first time in more than 20 years that cars outsold trucks and sport utility vehicles. It was the worst month in a decade in terms of new-car sales, down a full 7 percent from the previous year.

Changes in the Used Car Market

Meanwhile, since January 2008 used car prices have risen consistently, to today’s $13,000 average. 

On the other hand, wholesale used truck prices have dropped from about $16,500 a couple of years ago to today’s $14,000 average. Read more

It’s hard to imagine anything more frustrating to your everyday flow of life than a car failure. 

A vehicle that breaks down or won’t start is disruptive to regular daily routines and the best-laid plans.

When you can’t get to where you need to go you are forced to arrange alternative transportation. Then there’s the unknowns: the cost; and can you trust the mechanic and their recommendations?

The Changing Face of the Warranty

Insurance to limiting your hassle is the warranty. Generally associated with new cars, warranties have grown in popularity and now often cover used cars. Read more

Used cars is an industry that accounts for nearly half of American auto retail sales.

Believe it or not, the used car industry is actually the largest retail segment of the economy – with annual sales of up to $370 billion.

The Used Car Industry Keeps Getting Stronger

Compare that figures with other retail divisions, such as $206 billion in annual sales for school and office products, and the $291 made annually from home improvement products.

The industry has grown so large that in the past two decades it has been the recipient of a public relations facelift. Read more

There are good places to buy used cars

Some of them may seem unconventional, however there are places you can buy reliable used cars at decent prices. Don’t believe us? Check it out, we did some research and found the top 5 places we’d go to buy a used car.

1. Government Auction

Buying a car at Government Auction is far more exciting in theory than in reality. According to popular myth, these auctions sell cars that have been taken from criminals and impounded or used as evidence in crimes.

The truth is not so exciting, there is a very slim chance you will find that 1974 purple caddy with the chain steering wheel you’ve been after.

In reality you are far more likely to find a Ford Taurus or a Camry or another subdued sedan. The cars sold at Government auction are generally purchased in fleet for federal agencies and then sold after about two or three years of use when a new fleet is purchased. Read more