Mastering Phoenix’s Used Car Market: 6 Expert Tips

Tip 1: Decide What You Want

Understanding your requirements before venturing into Phoenix’s used car market can save you time, and money. Equally important, it can prevent buyer’s remorse. Knowing what you want can significantly streamline your searching process and negotiations. This knowledge also helps you to understand the market trends and pricing, allowing you to get a better deal.

Before you start your car search, make decisions on these three things:

• Your Budget: How much are you willing and able to spend? Consider the total cost, including insurance, maintenance, and other potential expenses.

• Vehicle Type: Are you looking for a compact car, SUV, pickup truck, or a luxury vehicle? Your choice will depend on your lifestyle, needs, and preferences.

• Vehicle Condition: Are you comfortable with a car that might need some repair work, or do you prefer a used car in excellent condition?

According to a Reddit user, "I learned the hard way that not knowing what you want in a used car can lead to a lot of wasted time and money. I ended up with a car that needed more repairs than I could afford because I didn’t do my homework." 

On the other hand, another Reddit user shared a positive experience saying, "I did a lot of research before buying my used car. I knew exactly what I wanted, and I wasn’t willing to compromise. It took me a while to find the right car, but it was worth the wait." These experiences highlight the importance of knowing what you want in a used car. 

Once you have a clear understanding of what you want, you can then compare prices, read reviews, and make an informed decision. Remember, the used car market in Phoenix can be vast and varied, so patience and thorough research are key. 

A 2019 Consumer Reports study found that 57% of used car buyers who did thorough research and knew what they wanted felt satisfied with their purchase.

Tip 2: Understand the Phoenix Market

Supply and demand will always affect used car pricing, but what does that mean here in Arizona?  Here are a few things you should know about the supply here in Phoenix and what you should know about other buyers — essentially your competition when seeking a good deal.  

What Factors Affect Used Car Prices and Supply In Phoenix Az?

A car-dependent city — without a subway — drives up demand. Countering that reality, Phoenix has many attributes that actually help improve supply of good used cars. 

Choosing the Arizona lifestyle, retirees and seasonal residents provide a good supply of well-maintained, lower-mileage vehicles. Furthermore, our well-maintained roads help cars retain value due to less wear and tear. 

Preserving value, the lack of snow and dry, arid conditions protect cars from the risk of rust and corrosion. There is of course the risk that extreme heat can affect batteries, tires and certain other vulnerable components. Still, the climate is generally much kinder to cars.

Heat can also affect when people shop. A Reddit user shared, "I found that the used car prices in Phoenix fluctuate depending on the time of year. It’s crucial to keep an eye on market trends before making a purchase." 

What Factors Affect Dealership Used Car Sales?

When it comes to new car dealerships, used car prices are considered more affordable due to lower dealer costs, which are influenced by competitive sales taxes and lower operational costs. This is a positive for anyone who would rather buy from a reputable company than take a risk buying a vehicle from an individual seller.

Certified preowned vehicles generally come with some warranty coverage and better financing options. To find CPO cars, it’s a good idea to look at a specific brand dealership. For instance, to find CPO Toyotas you’d go to Earnhardt Toyota. To find LCertified Lexus, you’d go to Earnhardt Lexus. Shop certified preowned vehicles.

You may ask “what is a reputable used car dealer”? That’s a legitimate question. One key aspect, often overlooked by shoppers, is the presence of a dedicated service department. If a dealership doesn’t have its own mechanics, it is unlikely that its cars have passed the strict requirements found at Earnhardt’s 17 dealerships. 

Another way new car dealers help used car buyers is by locating a specific model. For car enthusiasts and others, this can be invaluable help. At Earnhardt Auto Centers, our staff is in the know when it comes to finding models for our clients. Contact us if you have a request.

What Factors Are Distinctive About Phoenix AZ Buyers?

A recent Automotive News report indicates that pickup trucks and SUVs are particularly popular in Phoenix, with Honda Accord, Ford F-150, and Toyota Camry among the top-selling used cars. 

The popularity of outdoor activities causes a higher demand for adventure-ready used trucks and SUVs. This means that off-road vehicles and those with high tow ratings can command a 

higher price. Find prices for good used trucks.

Long commutes are common, and that leads many shoppers to favor fuel-efficient vehicles. Hybrids and, more recently, electric vehicles can fetch higher used car prices. 

What Features Are Most Important to Phoenix AZ Buyers?

The extreme heat leads many buyers to prioritize air conditioning systems. Dual-zone automatic climate controls — or multi-zone in 3-row vehicles — improve used car values. Shoppers should be on the lookout for 2nd-row air conditioning vents in 2-row SUVs and 3rd-row vents in 3-row vehicles. 

Furthermore, ventilated seats are a favorite among Phoenix used car shoppers. Since they are also a favorite among new car buyers, there’s a greater chance for Arizonans to find the feature in used cars.

Like certain used car shoppers anywhere, Phoenix shoppers may simply want the lowest possible price. Earnhardt offers many used cars under $15,000. Click here search.

Tip 3: Research and Compare Prices

One of the most crucial steps in successfully navigating Phoenix’s used car market is to compare prices. This section covers this critical strategy in more depth, with insights pulled from real-world examples, data, and customer opinions.

Once you have zeroed in on a favorite model, you can use the internet to compare prices for the same model across different dealerships and online platforms. To be an accurate comparison, the model year, trim level, mileage, condition and features should be the same. 

This can offer insights into the market value and help identify potential deals or overpriced cars. For example, a Reddit user recently shared their experience of finding a significantly cheaper used Honda Accord at a new car dealership, although the store offered fewer used cars when compared to a large corporate used car dealership (such as Carvana, CarMax, etc).

Of course, price isn’t everything. As a user on the G2 platform pointed out, "Just because a car is cheap doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good deal. Always consider the car’s history and condition."

If you are serious about a used car, slow down and read the vehicle history report. It gives you details about previous ownership, accidents, repairs, and maintenance.

Data-Driven Insights

You can utilize data-driven platforms like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to get an estimated value for a specific car model. Analyzing known factors like mileage, condition, and age, these platforms offer objective, data-driven insights that can be invaluable in negotiating prices and ensuring fair deals.

Furthermore, it is also crucial to consider customer reviews and expert opinions. For instance, a Trustpilot review highlighted the importance of checking the dealership’s reputation, "I bought a used car from a dealership based on their excellent customer reviews and was not disappointed. They offered a competitive price and were transparent about the car’s history."

For another perspective on used car prices, check out this article: What is Good Mileage on a Used Car.

Critical Reviews

The internet is full of car reviews. Which critics should you consult? US News and World Report compiles reviews for every model every year. It also has rankings such as this article ranking the Best Used SUVs.

Simply write out “year make model review” in your search engine. Then pick the reviews from reputable sources such as US News, Edmunds, Car Connection, Kelley Blue Book, and Consumer Reports.

Tip 4: Inspect the Car Thoroughly

The fourth crucial tip for navigating Phoenix’s used car market successfully is to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle before making a purchase decision. This involves checking both the exterior and interior of the car, as well as assessing its mechanical condition. 

It’s important to remember that a car’s outward appearance can be deceptive. A shiny, well-polished exterior may hide significant internal issues, while a somewhat dull or worn-out exterior may be compensating for a well-maintained and reliable engine. Thoroughly inspecting a used car can save you from costly repairs and maintenance issues down the line.

Reddit user PhoenixCarEnthusiast shares a personal experience, saying, "I once bought a used car that looked perfect on the outside. But within a week, I started experiencing engine problems. I learnt my lesson the hard way – always get the car inspected by a mechanic before buying." 

Mechanical problems are more likely for vehicles that are sold privately, since no one has inspected them.  And they are more likely for vehicles sold by used car dealerships that do not have their own service department. This is one reason that reputable new car dealerships are often the source of reputable used car deals.

A G2 user highlighted the importance of a thorough inspection from a seller’s perspective: "I make sure every car we sell is thoroughly checked and serviced. It not only builds trust with our customers but also helps our new car dealership maintain a good reputation in the Phoenix market." 

According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 45% of all used car sales in Phoenix had undisclosed mechanical issues. This statistic underscores the importance of a meticulous car inspection. 

When there is any question about a car you want to buy, it’s advisable to consult a professional mechanic for an inspection. They have the expertise to identify potential issues that may not be apparent to an untrained eye. This can also provide you with a reliable estimate of any repair costs, which you can use to negotiate a preowned car’s price. 

In conclusion, a thorough inspection may require some time and effort, but the benefits far outweigh the potential risks and costs associated with buying a mechanically unsound vehicle.

Tip 5: Consider Financing Options

Understanding the range of financing options available is a crucial part of navigating Phoenix’s used car market successfully. Here are some key considerations when exploring financing options for used cars in Phoenix.

• Dealer Financing: Many dealerships offer in-house financing options, which can be convenient for customers. However, it’s essential to compare these rates with those offered by banks and credit unions to ensure you’re getting the best deal. You can feel safe by choosing an established local dealership, such as No Bull Financing from Earnhardt Auto Centers in Phoenix.

• Bank and Credit Union Loans: Traditional loans from banks and credit unions often offer competitive rates, particularly for those with good credit. It’s worth shopping around to find the best terms. A good used car dealer, such as Earnhardt Auto Centers, can actually search lenders and find the best loan and lease deals.

• Online Lenders: While it can be tricky to find a reputable lender, online sources can offer competitive rates and quick approval times. However, it’s crucial to research the lender thoroughly to avoid potential scams. Our No Bull Express lets you conduct the entire purchasing and loan process online if that’s convenient for you.

• Buy Here, Pay Here Dealerships: These dealerships offer financing to those with poor credit or no credit history. However, they often charge higher interest rates, so it’s essential to understand the terms fully before committing. Again, Earnhardt Auto Centers has its own form of financing designed to help those with bad credit or no credit. This can be much safer and cheaper than Buy Here Pay Here dealerships.

Trustpilot user PhoenixUsedCarFan warns about the potential pitfalls of Buy Here, Pay Here dealerships: "I ended up paying way more in interest than the car was worth. I’d advise anyone to carefully read the terms and conditions before signing anything." 

The most recent data on used car loan interest rates in Phoenix, AZ, as of April 2025, shows an average 5.59% APR for terms up to 60 months  for well-qualified borrowers. It can be much higher when a borrower has no credit history or a bad credit score.  Use this simple pre-approval form to find out about your purchasing power.

Tip 6: Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

According to a study by the Automotive Leasing Guide, negotiation is an integral part of the used car buying process, with over 60% of used car transactions in Phoenix involving some level of negotiation. That’s basically 6 out of every 10 used cars sold.

Negotiation is an art, and successful negotiation can bring about a win-win situation for both parties. It’s about understanding the market, knowing the worth of the vehicle, and having the courage to put forth a fair offer.

 It’s smart to be realistic about how much the seller will bring down the price. Individuals may be more willing while established dealers may have less reason to agree to reducing the price. At Earnhardt, our No Bull pricing is a good deal every day.

Users on platforms like Reddit have shared their experiences and insights about negotiating in the used car market. A car enthusiast from Phoenix shared on a Reddit thread, "Negotiation is key in the used car market. I’ve managed to knock off as much as $1,000 from the asking price just by doing my research and standing my ground." 

A Trustpilot user noted, "Negotiating is a key part of buying a used car in Phoenix. Don’t be afraid to haggle on the price." 

Good Luck and Happy Shopping!

In conclusion, navigating Phoenix’s used car market isn’t rocket science. Just a little research can go a long way toward scoring the best deal on the right car. 

Make sure to narrow your search by determining how much you can spend and what type of vehicle you really want before you start shopping. Use the internet to find rival prices and to read about a model’s reputation.  Likewise, check out a dealership’s reputation with a quick search of dealer reviews. 

Keep everything you’ve learned in mind as you move through all the steps to the process, and be ready to negotiate for the best price. Remember good financing is important to the ultimate price of the vehicle.

Feel free to reach out to our staff for assistance with used car shopping or financing. Check out our used car inventory.