From Yahoo Finance: 2025-05-05 07:07:00

The UK used car market in April remained stable, with retail prices up, vehicles selling faster, and sales volumes rising, according to Auto Trader. Prices increased by 1.5% month-on-month, the strongest growth since 2023, with demand high for older vehicles, driving up prices. Nearly new cars saw slower price growth due to higher supply levels.

Used car sales sped up in April, with cars selling in an average of 27 days, the fastest on record for Auto Trader. Demand for five to ten-year-old cars was especially strong, selling in just 25 days on average. Despite the Easter holiday, used car sales volumes increased by 1.3% year-on-year.

Trade values have recovered, but have slowed recently, especially for younger vehicles. Retailers are gaining pricing confidence, with 33% of used cars priced above market value in April, up from 30%. However, there is untapped margin potential, with £25m in missed opportunities due to vehicles priced below market value.

Auto Trader’s data indicates that recent economic and political uncertainty has had little impact on used car buying demand. Despite challenges and increasing pressure on margins, the market remains strong. Retailers are urged to scrutinize data to source the right stock and price it correctly for success in the supply-constrained market.

Read more: UK used car market sees steady prices and faster sales in April: Auto Trader