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Selling your car online has never been easier, thanks to instant cash offers (ICOs) from companies like CarMax, Carvana, and EchoPark. But not all offers are equal—some look great at first glance but come with hidden fees, inconvenient conditions, or last-minute price changes. If you’re considering selling your car, here’s what you need to know to get the best deal.
The Most Important Step: Shop Around for the Best Instant Cash Offer
The biggest mistake car sellers make is accepting the first offer they receive without checking other options. Instant cash offers can vary widely depending on the buyer, and some companies may offer significantly more for your car than others. The best way to get an accurate comparison is to request quotes from multiple online buyers on the same day. Market values fluctuate frequently, so comparing offers within a short timeframe ensures you’re getting a fair and competitive price. Here’s the easiest way to compare offers.
With this critical step covered, let’s talk about what sellers should do to ensure they’re getting the most money possible when selling a car online.
1. Check the Offer Validity & Expiration
Most instant cash offers are only valid for a limited time—some for 7 days, while others expire in 24-48 hours. A shorter window might pressure you into accepting an offer before comparing other options. If possible, get multiple offers on the same day to ensure an accurate comparison.
2. Watch Out for Hidden Fees or Deductions
Some online car buyers reduce their offer after an in-person inspection, citing previously unmentioned damages or wear and tear. Others may charge processing fees, title transfer fees, or towing costs. Be sure to ask about any potential deductions before finalizing the sale.
3. Understand Condition Adjustments
Many instant offers are based on self-reported vehicle condition—but companies may have different standards for what qualifies as “excellent” or “good” condition. Some buyers are more lenient with minor cosmetic damage, while others use it as a reason to lower their offer during the final inspection.
4. Consider Market Fluctuations
The value of your car can change daily based on market demand. Seasonal trends, fuel prices, and overall supply can all impact how much your car is worth. For the best results, compare offers on the same day rather than over several weeks.
5. Wholesale vs. Retail Pricing
Not all buyers value your car the same way. Some companies purchase cars at wholesale prices to resell at auctions, while others aim for retail resale. Large dealerships or national online retailers often provide better offers than local dealers relying on auction pricing.
6. Consider the Ease of the Transaction
Some services make selling your car simple, while others require extra effort. Consider factors like:
Free pickup vs. drop-off required
Same-day payment vs. delayed payment processing
On-the-spot inspection vs. detailed evaluation process
Choose a buyer that offers a smooth, hassle-free process.
7. How Your Loan or Title is Handled
If your car still has a loan balance, find out whether the buyer will handle the payoff directly or if you’ll need to settle it first. Also, ensure the buyer provides clear title transfer documentation to avoid future liability issues.
8. Read Customer Reviews & Reputation
Before accepting an offer, check online reviews to see if other sellers have had good experiences. Some companies are known for bait-and-switch tactics, while others have a strong reputation for fair pricing and fast transactions.
9. Compare Trade-In vs. Direct Sale Offers
Some dealerships offer higher instant cash offers if you’re trading in rather than selling outright. If you plan to buy another car soon, check if a trade-in deal can get you more value.
Final Thoughts
Instant cash offers can be a great way to sell your car quickly, but taking the time to compare them properly can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. By considering offer expiration dates, potential deductions, and how the sale is handled, you can ensure you’re getting the best deal possible. Compare offers with CarEdge in minutes — no commitment required!
The electrification of transportation is a global phenomenon, one that the United States is a part of, but not leading. Around the world, electric vehicle adoption is surging, from Asia and Europe to emerging markets in Latin America and even Africa. Recent sales figures prove that EVs are not just a passing trend. Here’s a look at the latest EV market trends in 2025, proving that electric vehicles continue to gain ground despite political and economic challenges.
Where America Stands on EV Adoption
Many skeptics dismiss EVs as a politically driven fad, but they overlook a crucial fact: electrification is a global movement, not just a regional trend. Globally, electric vehicle sales increased 25% in 2024. Analysis from the International Energy Agency and OurWorldInData shows that global sales of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines (ICE) peaked back in 2018. EVs, plug-in hybrids, and mild hybrids have steadily gained market share as ICE cars have declined globally. While the U.S. has made significant strides in EV adoption, it still lags behind many other major markets.
For the time being, China is the leader in EVs, at least among global superpowers. It’s without a doubt the world’s largest EV market in terms of annual sales. In 2024, battery electric vehicle (BEV) market share in China reached an impressive 27%, with 11 million EVs sold.
In 2024, battery electric vehicles made up 14% of new car sales in the European Union and just 8% in the U.S. The United Kingdom is charging ahead (pun intended), with one in five new cars sold being fully electric. France followed with 16% BEV market share, while Germany declined to 14% as incentives ended. Several European nations have surpassed the 50% mark, with Norway leading the world at 89% BEV market share in 2024. Iceland and Sweden are close behind.
A surprising leader in the Americas is Costa Rica, where 17% of new cars sold in 2024 were BEVs. While the U.S. is making progress, it is clear that the country is not at the forefront of the EV revolution. However, recent market trends show that demand is growing, and more Americans are making the switch.
February Sales Data Highlights U.S. EV Market Strength
Although several countries are well ahead of the United States in EV adoption, progress in the U.S. continues nonetheless. Cox Automotive’s latest EV Market Monitor for February 2025 provides compelling data on the continued growth of electric vehicles in the country.
New EV Sales: Record February Numbers
While new EV sales saw a slight month-over-month decline due to expected seasonal trends, last month marked an all-time record high for the month of February. Year-over-year, new EV sales volume increased by 10.5%, though market share dipped slightly to 7.7%. Luxury brands performed particularly well:
BMW and Rivian saw strong growth, with sales increasing by 20.9% and 34.0%, respectively.
Tesla’s overall sales declined by 10.0%, largely driven by drops in the Cybertruck (-32.5%), Model 3 (-17.5%), and Model Y (-3.1%). But that wasn’t enough to knock Tesla off the throne.
The five best-selling EV models in February 2025 were:
Used EV sales saw an impressive 34.2% increase year-over-year in February, highlighting the growing demand for pre-owned electric models. Tesla maintained its dominance in the used EV market, accounting for 39.9% of total sales. However, month-over-month, Tesla’s used EV sales volume dipped by 9.2%.
The market supply of used EVs also reflected shifting dynamics, with the days’ supply reaching 49 days, a slight 5.9% month-over-month increase but a notable 21.5% year-over-year decrease. This suggests that used EVs are selling at a much faster rate than the previous year, reinforcing their growing appeal among buyers.
EV Prices: New EVs Are Becoming More Affordable
The cost of EV ownership is gradually becoming more accessible. In February, the average transaction price (ATP) for new EVs was $55,273, marking a 1.2% month-over-month decline but a 3.7% increase year-over-year. Incentives for new EVs reached 14.9% of ATP, making them more affordable for consumers. This is much higher than incentive levels in the overall market, which totaled 7.1% of the average transaction price.
On the used market, the average listing price for EVs was $38,057, reflecting a 1.8% month-over-month increase and a 1.6% year-over-year rise. Notably, 39% of used EVs sold were priced under $25,000, offering budget-friendly options for buyers looking to go electric. These trends indicate a growing affordability that could encourage wider adoption in the near future.
More EV Choices and Better Charging Infrastructure
With 70 fully electric models available in the U.S. market in 2025 and a dozen more launching by the end of the year, EV buyers have more choices than ever before. One of the biggest hurdles to EV adoption—charging infrastructure—is improving rapidly.
Tesla’s Supercharger network remains the most reliable and accounts for 56% of the nation’s fast chargers.
Major automakers like Ford, GM, Rivian, and Lucid now have access to Tesla’s Supercharger network, effectively eliminating range anxiety for many EV drivers.
EVs Are Here to Stay
The numbers don’t lie. Electric vehicles are not just a niche product but a growing force in the auto industry. While the U.S. may trail behind some international markets, EV adoption continues to rise, with new and used EV sales increasing year over year. Prices are becoming more competitive, and charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly. Despite political headwinds, the momentum behind EVs is undeniable.
Future innovations will help to accelerate the switch, even if ICE-powered vehicles remain in the market for decades to come. Chinese automaker BYD just teased 5-minute charge times, and numerous automakers have advanced solid-state batteries in development. Charging is getting even better with the automaker-funded Ionna charging network growing quickly in 2025. The future is looking bright for those considering the switch to an EV.
Find the most negotiable EVs near you with CarEdge Best Deals — the easiest way to find the biggest incentives for any new car. Shopping used? CarEdge Insights reveals aging inventory that’s ripe for negotiation. We’re here to help you save time, money, and hassle with your next car purchase, no matter what you’re in the market for.
When shopping for a new car, many buyers look for a balance between safety and reliability—but these two factors don’t always go hand in hand. The latest 2025 car safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reveal a surprising disconnect between crash-test performance and long-term dependability. While 48 models earned IIHS Top Safety Pick (TSP) or Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) ratings, many of these “safest” cars come with questionable reliability based on the latest ratings from Consumer Reports. Here’s what drivers should know about reliability and safety before buying a car in 2025.
2025’s Safest Cars: A Shortlist with Fewer Domestic Models
In 2025, the IIHS awarded far fewer Top Safety Picks than the previous year—just 48, compared to 71 in 2024. This year’s safest vehicles are dominated by import brands, with only five American-made models making the cut: the Chevrolet Traverse, Lincoln Nautilus, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Rivian R1S, and Rivian R1T.
Surprisingly, many of the best-selling cars and trucks in the U.S. did not receive Top Safety Pick ratings, including the five most popular vehicles in America: the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Tesla Model Y.
Out of the 25 best-selling cars in the United States last year, only five made the IIHS Top Safety Pick list for 2025:
While a high safety rating might seem like a green light for purchase, it doesn’t always mean the car will be dependable. Consumer Reports’ 2025 reliability predictions show a concerning trend: some of the safest cars on the road today are among the least reliable. These ratings are based on vehicle powertrain history, recalls, and real-world consumer complaints.
Here are five of the biggest disconnects between safety and reliability for 2025:
Despite earning the highest IIHS safety rating, the R1S has an abysmal predicted reliability score, likely due to Rivian’s track record of software glitches, build quality concerns, and mechanical issues.
Mazda’s plug-in hybrid SUV gets top marks for safety, but its reliability is predicted to be low, possibly due to new powertrain complexities and early-stage issues with its hybrid system.
The all-electric pickup is another example of a vehicle with cutting-edge safety features but poor reliability, mirroring the R1S’s mechanical and software challenges.
Lincoln Nautilus (Top Safety Pick Plus) – Reliability Score: 24/100
Lincoln’s midsize SUV earns strong safety scores but falls behind in reliability, likely due to past transmission and electronics issues that persist in newer models.
Full List of 2025 Top Safety Picks and Their Reliability Ratings
To give you a complete view, here is the full list of 2025 Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+ models, along with their Consumer Reports reliability ratings. This data highlights the wide range of reliability scores among the safest vehicles available today:
Model Year
Make
Model
IIHS Rating (2025)
CR Reliability Rating
What This Means for Car Buyers
A car’s safety rating is crucial, but it’s only half the picture. Vehicles with high crash-test scores but poor reliability can lead to frustrating ownership experiences, costly repairs, and potential long-term headaches. Before making a purchase, it’s essential to consider both safety and reliability rankings, along with real-world owner feedback.
At CarEdge, we help car shoppers make informed decisions with data-driven insights. Whether you’re searching for a vehicle that’s safe, reliable, or both, our tools and expert guidance ensure you drive away with confidence.
Explore CarEdge’s Free Buyer’s Guide to compare the latest safety, reliability, and cost-of-ownership data on your next vehicle.
Spring is shaping up to be an interesting season for new car buyers. Tax refunds are giving consumers extra cash to put toward a purchase, yet overall consumer confidence has dipped as tariffs make headlines. Meanwhile, inventory levels continue to climb, and new car prices are on a downward trend. For car buyers looking to get the best deal this spring, knowing which brands have the most and least inventory is crucial.
Here’s where the car market stands as buyers head out for test drives this spring.
New Car Inventory Continues to Rise
As of March 2025, the total U.S. supply of unsold new vehicles stood at 2.99 million units, marking a 12.8% increase in inventory year over year. Cox Automotive’s latest Data Point reports that February’s new car sales pace picked up by 13.6% compared to January and 5.9% year over year. The latest car buying report shows that buyers are still making moves despite sliding consumer sentiment.
Overall inventory levels remain high, with an 89-day supply of new cars at the start of March. That’s a notable 10% drop from February but still well above pre-pandemic levels. The takeaway? There are more cars on dealer lots, giving buyers better negotiating power. It’s officially a buyer’s market. Incentives will be on the rise as April new car deals are announced in the weeks ahead.
Where Are the Best New Car Deals Today?
It’s important for spring car buyers to know that the deals are in the details. The new cars with the biggest discounts and highest negotiability are those with a growing oversupply. Fortunately, online car buying tools make it possible to find the most negotiable cars and trucks, all from the comfort of your home.
Not all brands are facing the same inventory trends. Hyundai inventory has risen the most, up 38 days year over year, while Jeep and Ram have declined the most, down 54 and 56 days, respectively. Among top-selling brands, Ford has the most inventory in March, with 138 days of supply sitting on dealer lots. In other words, it would take over four months to sell Ford’s lot inventory at today’s selling rates. This fictional scenario would be without any new deliveries from the factory.
Here’s a look at how all of the major OEMs in America stack up in terms of today’s supply of new cars. For context, anywhere from 60 to 90 days of supply is generally considered ‘normal’ in today’s auto market.
Despite falling inventory, Jeep, Ram, and other Stellantis brands remain near the top of the list. Automakers with greater than 120 days of market supply are going to consistently have the best new car deals this spring. Buyers looking for a Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, or Jeep are likely to have the upper hand in car price negotiations. This is especially true when using car buying tools to find aging inventory that has been on the market for longer.
Luxury Sales Soar As Budget Options Dwindle
In Spring 2025, the average new vehicle listing price now sits at $48,316. In the post-pandemic K-shaped economic recovery that has continued, buyers of ultra-luxury models continue to thrive, while budget-conscious drivers struggle with a lack of options.
Cox Automotive noted that luxury sales are thriving, despite waning consumer sentiment. “Through the end of February, more than 52,000 new vehicles transacted at prices above $100,000, up from 46,000 in the first two months of 2024. Five years ago, in January and February of 2020, just over 12,000 six-figure vehicles were sold.”
The best-selling car brands in America do share something in common: relative affordability.
The six best-selling brands — Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Honda, Hyundai, and Kia — offered an average price of $42,524, making them more affordable than the overall market.
For budget-conscious buyers, the market for sub-$20,000 vehicles is shrinking fast. Available inventory in this segment dropped 17% month over month, leaving the Mitsubishi Mirageas the last new car routinely selling for under $20,000. The Nissan Versa ($20,149 average listing price) and Kia Forte ($22,085 average listing price) remain some of the most affordable options still widely available. The Kia Forte has been replaced by the Kia K4 for 2025, and unsurprisingly, comes with a higher price tag.
In 2025, the auto market has seen a 9% increase in vehicles priced over $80,000. More than 75,000 new vehicles are now listed at over $100,000, compared to fewer than 50,000 a year ago. Clearly, the luxury car market is growing, while those who rely on affordable transportation options are priced out of the market entirely.
Is Spring 2025 a Good Time to Buy?
With incentives holding steady at 7.1% of the average transaction price ($3,392), buyers can still find opportunities this spring. Higher inventory levels mean dealers are more motivated to negotiate, especially for brands with surplus stock like Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, and Jeep. However, potential policy changes, including the impacts of tariffs, could impact pricing later in the year as 2026 models are unveiled.
March and April of 2025 present a mixed bag for car buyers. If you’re looking for a deal, focus on automakers with higher inventory levels. Find aging new car inventory that’s primed to sell at a discount. These will always be the most negotiable cars. If possible, take advantage of the best financing, cash, and lease incentives of the month. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, consider waiting for April’s best car deals to be announced. Deals change often, and you could end up saving thousands of dollars.
The Ford F-150, America’s best-selling truck, could be facing significant price hikes in 2025 due to increased tariffs on aluminum and steel. The Trump administration has implemented a 25% tariff on all aluminum and steel imports, creating cost pressures for automakers that rely heavily on these materials. Here’s how Ford’s production lines will be impacted, and how consumers may end up paying more for the F-150 in 2025.
Tariffs to Have Outsized Impact on Ford Trucks
On March 13, a 25% tariff on all aluminum and steel imports went into effect. This follows the 2018 tariffs imposed by President Trump, which included a 25% tariff on steel and a 10% tariff on aluminum imports. This time, the impact on vehicle prices could be greater.
Automakers have grown more reliant on aluminum in recent years, particularly for trucks like the F-150 and Super Duty models, which use extensive aluminum in their bodies, hoods, and beds. According to Barclays research reported in the Wall Street Journal, these tariffs could add an average of $400 in material costs per vehicle—a cost that will likely be passed on to consumers.
Ford has been working with suppliers to stockpile aluminum as trade uncertainties linger. However, a Ford spokesperson acknowledged that shifting to U.S.-sourced aluminum would take years. While Ford sources 90% of its steel domestically, most high-quality automotive aluminum originates from Canada.
F-150 Prices Are Already Up 55%
Sales of Ford’s F-Series trucks have declined slightly over the past five years, dropping from 896,526 units sold in 2019 to 834,641 in 2024. At the same time, base prices have surged by 30%, while prices for the popular Lariat trim have jumped by 55%. Whether F-150 buyers will tolerate additional price increases remains uncertain.
Ford is one of the automakers with the highest car price inflation in recent years. Other truck-focused OEMS, like Stellantis and General Motors, have also raised prices more than competitors.
Adding to the complexity, inventory levels are unusually high, with 145 days of market supply nationwide for the F-150 in March 2025. This oversupply could act as a deterrent to further price hikes—at least for now. However, if production costs continue rising due to tariffs, automakers may still decide to pass some of these costs onto buyers.
Impact on Ford’s Bottom Line
Aluminum-intensive vehicles like the F-150 and Super Duty pickups are at particular risk of cost inflation. The auto industry has increased aluminum usage by 30% over the past decade, primarily to improve fuel efficiency and reduce weight. However, U.S. aluminum production has declined, making imports more essential than ever.
The last time similar tariffs were imposed in 2018, Ford and General Motors both reported billion-dollar losses due to rising material costs. Spot prices for steel hit a decade-high before demand collapsed, leading to steel industry cutbacks. Automakers are concerned about a repeat scenario, where higher prices could hurt sales and profitability.
What This Means for Consumers
Higher Truck Prices – If the tariffs remain in place, expect higher MSRPs and fewer incentives for aluminum-heavy models like the F-150 and electric vehicles (EVs), which also rely on lightweight aluminum structures.
Delayed Cost Impact – Automakers and suppliers will negotiate who absorbs the added costs, but eventually, the consumer will feel the pinch.
Potential Panic Buying – In 2018, buyers rushed to purchase vehicles before price hikes took effect. A similar trend could emerge if tariffs persist, and if significant MSRP hikes arrive for the 2026 model year.
The best strategy for F-150 shoppers in 2025 is to identify aging inventory. These trucks will always be the most negotiable, as dealership floorplanning costs add up in today’s high-interest rate environment. Online tools make it easier than ever to find the most negotiable new and used vehicles for sale. With negotiation know-how, truck buyers can walk away with thousands of dollars in savings.
Drivers who are tired of haggling and dealership visits can even have a pro negotiate your deal. There’s no excuse for overpaying for a truck in 2025!
The Future of Tariffs and Ford’s Strategy
Auto industry leaders have voiced concerns over the lack of domestic aluminum supply, noting that Canada supplies 75% of the U.S.’s primary aluminum. Alcoa, the world’s 8th-largest aluminum exporter, has pushed for Canadian exemptions, arguing that domestic production cannot meet demand.
Jean-Marc Germain, CEO of aluminum roller Constellium, told the Wall Street Journal that he supports long-term tariffs. However, he warns that imposing a 50% levy on Canada would only drive more imports from other countries.
With these tariffs in place, Ford and other automakers will have to adjust their pricing strategies in 2025 and beyond. F-150 buyers should brace for higher costs in the near future if tariffs continue.
CarEdge Insights
