Used car prices will reach record high in Q3 2025
With used car prices exceeding $31,000 in Q3 2025, EVs are emerging as a budget-friendly option.
america today
- Hertz has partnered with eBay to sell thousands of used cars from its rental fleet online.
- The average price of a used car in April 2026 was $25,500, and the average price of a new car in March 2026 was $49,275.
- Advantages of purchasing a previous rental car include warranty protection, no-haggle pricing, easy return options, and more.
Hertz has partnered with eBay to offer a list of used cars coming out of its fleet for car buyers hungry for deals as prices for new and used cars increase.
Hertz said in a May 5 announcement that the partnership with eBay will make 8,000 used car listings available on eBay’s website, one of the busiest commercial online retailers.
Chris Berg, Hertz’s executive vice president of global fleet management, said in a statement that the deal with eBay is a “natural next step” as the company continues to build its used car business and digital presence.
“This gives us access to millions of in-market shoppers on a trusted platform, supports a scalable retail model, reduces our reliance on wholesale channels, and puts our near-new certified inventory in front of more customers than ever before,” Berg said.
“eBay has long been the destination of choice for value-seeking car buyers,” Andreas Wiergoss, GM of Vehicles at eBay US, said in a statement.
“With Hertz bringing its inventory to eBay, we are connecting shoppers with world-class, near-new certified vehicles, all supported by eBay’s Secure Purchase, which enables a seamless end-to-end buying experience online,” Wielgoss said.
The USA TODAY Cars team investigated why ex-rental cars offer good value for car buyers looking for a deal.
What is the average price of a used car? How does it compare to the price of a new car?
According to Carfax, the average price of a used car in April 2026 was $25,500. The group said the figure was about $1,500 higher than a month earlier, in March 2026.
The average price of a new car in March 2026, the most recent data available, was $49,275. This is a 3.5% increase compared to one year ago, as of March 2025.
“As prices rise, flexibility is key,” Sri Melkote, chief analytics officer at Carfax, said in a statement.
“Shoppers need to consider different makes, models, years, trims, and even nearby markets to find the best deal for their budget,” Melcourt said. “Such price fluctuations suggest a volatile market, so it’s important to track prices now. When you’re ready, a vehicle history report can help you avoid expensive surprises and secure your true value.”
Why are previous rentals valuable to car buyers?
Previous rental cars have long had a reputation for being in worse condition than other types of used cars, on the theory that drivers don’t take as much care of their cars as those who own or lease them.
But Consumer Reports said in a post on its website that buyers shouldn’t automatically exclude previous rentals when purchasing a used car.
“Used rental car prices are very competitive, with a wide selection of models under $20,000,” said Michael Crossen, lead technician at CR Auto Test Center. “Depending on the company you buy from, used rental cars may come with warranties that can help reduce your financial risk.”
Crossen added: “When purchasing a used rental car, we recommend purchasing from the largest companies for added protection and a wider choice of models. However, be sure to check the terms carefully before purchasing.”
Here are some of the benefits found by Consumer Reports for people who buy used cars from major car rental companies like Hertz and Enterprise.
- Warranty may be available: According to Consumer Reports, some used cars that were once rented may still be young enough to be covered by their original factory warranty. Major rental companies like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis also typically offer a 12-month/12,000-mile limited warranty from the time of purchase.
- Price without negotiation: Most car rental companies offer competitive prices for used cars because they want to take delivery of their rental vehicle.
- Easy return options: Most car rental companies allow you to return your used car within a week of purchase if you change your mind. According to Consumer Reports, if you change your mind within the first week or 1,000 miles of your original purchase, Enterprise will buy your car back. The group said Hertz will rent the car for three days at a special rate for an extended test drive.
- Access to trade-ins and multiple financing options: Some rental companies will accept trade-ins when shoppers buy used cars, Consumer Reports said. Some have their own finance companies or work with multiple lenders to provide car buyers with options.
