Used-vehicle inventory levels rose again at the start of October, reaching a new high for 2025, according to the Cox Automotive analysis of vAuto Live Market View data released Oct. 17.

Nationwide, dealers – franchised and independent – had a total supply of 2.26 million used vehicles on their lots at the beginning of October. That figure was 3% higher than the 2.21 million in early September and is 10% higher than the same time last year.

The retail used-vehicle sales pace was down over 5% month over month in the most recent 30-day period. Used retail sales were at 1.42 million vehicles in September, down from the 1.50 million reported in August. The decline follows strong momentum in recent months, likely driven by pent-up demand as buyers saw this as a favorable purchasing window. 

However, sales remain notably strong, with sales up 7% compared to the previous year, as the used market continues to offer a strong value proposition to consumers seeking more affordable alternatives than those offered in the new-car segment.

The Cox Automotive days’ supply is based on the estimated daily retail sales rate for the most recent 30-day period. Used vehicles had 48 days’ supply at the start of October, up four days from the upwardly revised level at the beginning of September and up one day compared to the same time last year.

Though October represents the first month in 2025 to see days’ supply outperform the prior year, supply remains constrained and below levels observed in recent years, as well as in 2019.

Used-vehicle retail prices increased in the more recent measure. The average used vehicle listing price increased to $25,825, up from the revised $25,371 at the beginning of September and up 2% compared to the levels observed a year earlier.

Price-conscious buyers have limited options for affordable used vehicles. Used cars priced below $15,000 continue to have low availability, with only 34 days’ supply, which is 14 days below the overall industry average. T

he top five sellers of the month were listed at an average price of $23,919, more than 7% below the average listing price for all used vehicles sold. Once again, Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan were the top-selling brands, accounting for 50% of all used vehicles sold.