The U.S. auto industry sold nearly ************* cars in 2024. That year, total car and light truck sales were approximately ************ in the United States. U.S. vehicle sales peaked in 2016 at roughly ************ units. Pandemic impact The COVID-19 pandemic deeply impacted the U.S. automotive market, accelerating the global automotive semiconductor shortage and leading to a drop in demand during the first months of 2020. However, as demand rebounded, new vehicle supply could not keep up with the market. U.S. inventory-to-sales ratio dropped to its lowest point in February 2022, as Russia's war on Ukraine lead to gasoline price hikes. During that same period, inflation also impacted new and used car prices, pricing many U.S. consumers out of a market with increasingly lower car stocks. Focus on fuel economy The U.S. auto industry had one of its worst years in 1982 when customers were beginning to feel the effects of the 1973 oil crisis and the energy crisis of 1979. Since light trucks would often be considered less fuel-efficient, cars accounted for about ** percent of light vehicle sales back then. Thanks to improved fuel economy for light trucks and cheaper gas prices, this picture had completely changed in 2020. That year, prices for Brent oil dropped to just over ** U.S. dollars per barrel. The decline occurred in tandem with lower gasoline prices, which came to about **** U.S. dollars per gallon in 2020 - and cars only accounted for less than one-fourth of light vehicle sales that year. Four years on, prices are dropping again, after being the highest on record since 1990 in 2022.

Total Vehicle Sales in the United States decreased to 16.10 Million in August from 16.40 Million in July of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - United States Total Vehicle Sales - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

In 2024, the auto industry in the United States sold approximately 15.9 million light vehicle units. This figure includes retail sales of about three million passenger cars and just under 12.9 million light trucks. Lower fuel consumption There are many kinds of light vehicles available in the United States. Light-duty vehicles are popular for their utility and improved fuel economy, making them an ideal choice for savvy consumers. As of Model Year 2023, the light vehicle manufacturer with the best overall miles per gallon was Kia, with one gallon of gas allowing for 30.4 miles on the road. Higher brand satisfaction When asked about light vehicle satisfaction, consumers in the United States were most satisfied with Toyota, Subaru, Tesla, and Mercedes-Benz models. Another survey conducted in 2018 and quizzing respondents on their stance regarding the leading car brands indicated that Lexus was among the most dependable brands based on the number of problems reported per 100 vehicles.

Sales of used light vehicles in the United States came to around **** million units in 2024. In the same period, approximately **** million new light trucks and automobiles were sold here. Declining availability of vehicles In the fourth quarter of 2024, about ***** million vehicles were in operation in the United States, an increase of around *** percent year-over-year. The rising demand for vehicles paired with an overall price inflation lead to a rise in new vehicle prices. In contrast, used vehicle prices slightly decreased. E-commerce: a solution for the bumpy road ahead? Financial reports have revealed how the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic has triggered a shift in vehicle-buying behavior. With many consumer goods and services now bought online due to COVID-19, the automobile industry has also started to digitally integrate its services online to reach consumers with a preference for contactless test driving amid the global crisis. Several dealers and automobile companies had already begun to tap into online car sales before the pandemic, some of them being Carvana and Tesla.

Total Vehicle Sales in China increased to 2857000 Units in August from 2593000 Units in July of 2025. This dataset provides - China Total Vehicle Sales- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

Worldwide car sales grew to around ** million automobiles in 2024, up from around **** million units in 2023. Throughout 2020 and 2021, the sector experienced a downward trend on the back of a slowing global economy, while COVID-19 and the Russian war on Ukraine contributed to shortages in the automotive semiconductor industry and further supply chain disruptions in 2022. Despite these challenges, 2023 and 2024 sales surpassed pre-pandemic levels and are forecast to keep rising through 2025 and 2026. Covid-19 hits car demand It had been estimated pre-pandemic that international car sales were on track to reach ** million. While 2023 sales are still far away from that goal, this was the first year were car sales exceeded pre-pandemic values. The automotive market faced various challenges in 2023, including supply shortages, automotive layoffs, and strikes in North America. However, despite these hurdles, the North American market was among the fastest-growing regions in 2024, along with Eastern Europe and Asia, as auto sales in these regions increased year-on-year. Chinese market recovers After years of double-digit growth, China's economy began to lose steam in 2022, and recovery has been slow through 2023. China was the largest automobile market based on sales with around **** million units in 2023. However, monthly car sales in China were in free-fall in April 2022 partly due to shortages, fears over a looming recession, and the country grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. By June of that same year, monthly sales in China were closer to those recorded in 2021.

Total Vehicle Sales in Russia decreased to 93791 Units in May from 105939 Units in April of 2025. This dataset provides - Russia Total Vehicle Sales- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

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US Used Car Market Size 2025-2029

The US used car market size is forecast to increase by USD 40.2 billion, at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2024 and 2029.

The used car market in the US is witnessing significant growth, driven by the excellent value proposition that used cars offer to consumers. The increasing popularity of websites dedicated to selling used cars has expanded market reach and convenience, allowing consumers to browse and purchase vehicles online. Stringent emission regulations are restricting the sales of non-compliant used cars, necessitating investments in upgrading and maintaining commercial vehicle fleets to meet regulatory requirements. These regulations necessitate investments in emission testing and certification processes, increasing operational costs for dealers. To capitalize on opportunities, dealers can focus on offering certified pre-owned vehicles and implementing robust emission testing procedures.
Additionally, leveraging digital marketing strategies and offering flexible financing options can help attract and retain customers. Overall, the used car market presents both challenges and opportunities for players, requiring strategic planning and innovation to succeed.

What will be the size of the US Used Car Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The used car market in the US continues to evolve, with various sectors adapting to emerging trends and technologies. Vehicle data analysis plays a pivotal role in understanding vehicle depreciation curves and return on investment for dealers. Payment processing systems streamline sales transactions, while sales performance metrics and customer lifetime value inform strategic decision-making. Fraud detection systems ensure compliance with legal standards, and insurance cost factors influence acquisition channel efficiency. Inventory turnover rate, a key performance indicator, varies across dealerships. Compliance audits and dealer training programs maintain legal compliance and improve customer satisfaction. Market penetration rate and resale value prediction help dealers optimize pricing models.
Consumer protection laws and financing product offerings shape customer trust and loyalty. Operating costs analysis, customer service feedback, and sales conversion rates contribute to profit margin calculation. Risk assessment models, employee performance metrics, marketing spend efficiency, and pricing model validation are essential for long-term success. A recent study reveals a 5% increase in sales for dealerships implementing advanced data analytics. Industry growth is expected to reach 3% annually, driven by these evolving market dynamics.

How is this market segmented?

The US used car market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Distribution Channel

  3P channel sales
  OEM channel sales


Product

  Mid size
  Full size
  Compact size


Vendor Type

  Organized
  Unorganized


Fuel Type

  Diesel
  Petrol


Geography

  North America

    US

By Distribution Channel Insights

The 3P channel sales segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The used car market in the US is an active and dynamic sector, driven by various factors. With the constant launch of new vehicle models, the supply of used cars increases, resulting in lower prices compared to new cars. This trend encourages car owners to sell their vehicles and upgrade to newer models, shortening the average ownership cycle. Online advertising platforms play a significant role in connecting buyers and sellers. Pre-purchase inspections and vehicle history reports ensure transparency and build trust. Repairs cost estimation and parts sourcing networks help in managing the expenses of used car ownership. Market segmentation strategies cater to different customer needs, while customer relationship management tools foster loyalty.

Emissions testing standards ensure the environmental sustainability of used vehicles. Auto appraisal value tools help in determining fair prices, and loan term comparison aids in financing decisions. Marketing campaign effectiveness is measured through customer acquisition cost and interest rate calculation. Mobile apps offer functionalities like mechanical inspection checklists, paint depth measurement, and damage assessment tools. Dealer inventory management, detailing services, and vehicle photography techniques enhance the sales process. Industry growth is expected to continue, with the used car market projected to expand by 3% annually. For instance, a dealership successfully increased its sales by 15% thr

Car Registrations in Indonesia increased to 61780 Units in August from 60878 Units in July of 2025. This dataset provides - Indonesia Total Car Sales - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

In 2024, around **** million motor vehicles were sold in the United Kingdom, down from its peak at around *** million units in 2016. Sales recovery does not match 2019 levels In 2024, the UK was the second-largest car market in Europe. New passenger car registrations had grown in the country in 2023, up to the highest volume recorded since their dramatic drop in 2020. However, amid Brexit, the automotive semiconductor shortage, raw material price inflation, and an overall cost of living crisis, the UK's automotive industry has faced various challenges and has yet to reach its pre-COVID-19 pandemic level. The impact of inflation on car purchases The United Kingdom recorded its highest inflation rate since the 1990s in 2022, a situation that marginally improved in 2023. And, in 2024, the average inflation rate dropped to **** percent. New cars were particularly impacted by the inflation, with their consumer price index being at its highest in the past 15 years in 2023. Despite the inflating prices, car purchasing intentions remained relatively stable based on surveys ending in September 2023 and September 2024, with around **** of UK residents reporting their intention of buying a car in the 12 months following the survey. This is, however, a positive development compared to purchase intentions reported in that same survey ending in September 2022.

Key information about United States Motor Vehicles Sales Growth

• United States Motor Vehicles Sales dropped 1.0 % in Feb 2025, compared with a growth of 2.8 % in the previous month.
• US Motor Vehicles Sales Growth rate is updated monthly, available from Jan 1977 to Feb 2025, with an average growth rate of 1.8 %.
• The data reached an all-time high of 109.5 % in Apr 2021 and a record low of -45.9 % in Apr 2020.
• Car Sales of US recorded 1,253,157.0 units in Feb 2025.

Global vehicle sales have experienced significant fluctuations over the past two decades, with 2023 marking a return to pre-pandemic levels. The industry saw a sharp decline in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a gradual recovery. However, the semiconductor shortage in 2022 led to inventory issues and a slight decrease in sales. Despite these challenges, the market rebounded strongly in 2023, surpassing 92 million units sold worldwide. Recovery and future outlook The automotive industry's resilience is evident in its rapid recovery from the pandemic-induced slump. Light vehicle sales are projected to increase by 1.8 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year, with further growth of 2.5 percent expected in 2025. This positive trend is supported by the rebounding sales in China, the world's largest automotive market, and the growing demand for electric vehicles. The global production of motor vehicles reached 94 million units in 2023. Electric vehicles driving growth The shift towards electric vehicles is playing a crucial role in the industry's growth. In 2023, plug-in electric light vehicle sales reached an estimated 13.7 million units globally. This surge in demand is particularly noticeable in China and Europe's largest markets. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic and semiconductor shortages, the electric car market experienced record growth, with market share increasing significantly. However, as government subsidies for electric vehicles begin to be rolled back in some countries, the industry may face new challenges in maintaining this growth momentum.

View monthly updates and historical trends for US Total Vehicle Sales YoY. from United States. Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis. Track economic data wi…

Graph and download economic data for Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers (MRTSSM44112USN) from Jan 1992 to Jul 2025 about used, dealers, vehicles, retail trade, sales, retail, and USA.

Number of units and total sales of new motor vehicles by vehicle type and origin of manufacture, monthly.

Total Vehicle Sales in Australia decreased to 103097 Units in July from 122509 Units in June of 2025. This dataset provides the latest reported value for - Australia New Car Sales - plus previous releases, historical high and low, short-term forecast and long-term prediction, economic calendar, survey consensus and news.

This dataset is prepared for statistical factor pricing models and standardized across variables including country, region, currency, vendor, and manufacturer for seamless data filtering. It contains 20+ years of all items in the luxury classic car category sold at auction and in private markets. Tracked brands include: AMC, Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Daimler, Duesenberg, El Camino, Ferrari, Fiat, Ford, Hispano-Suiza, Isotta Fraschini, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lancia, Maserati, Mercedes, McLaren, Mercury, Panther, Peugeot, Pontiac, Rolls Royce, Porsche, Shelby, Toyota, Volkswagen, Zundapp

Graph and download economic data for Light Weight Vehicle Sales: Autos and Light Trucks (ALTSALES) from Jan 1976 to Aug 2025 about light weight, trucks, vehicles, new, sales, and USA.

Total Vehicle Sales in Chile increased to 26909 Units in July from 24281 Units in June of 2025. This dataset provides - Chile Total Vehicle Sales- actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

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