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Year-End Car Sales Are Worth Waiting For
If you’re in the market for a new set of wheels, you might want to hold off on signing any papers just yet. Historical data and current trends both suggest that waiting until the end of the year can save you a lot of money. Here’s why delaying your purchase until December is worth considering.
The Seasonal Cycle of Car Sales
Car sales, much like other retail sectors, experience seasonal fluctuations, and timing your purchase can make a big difference. While autumn might offer some discounts, waiting until December is likely to result in more widespread car deals. As the year comes to a close, dealerships are eager to clear out inventory to make room for new models, leading to more aggressive pricing and incentives.
Additionally, the pressure to meet year-end sales targets often motivates sellers to offer steeper discounts. By December, you’re not just benefiting from seasonal trends but also capitalizing on a perfect storm of factors that can lead to significant savings.
New Car Inventory and Interest Rates
Currently, the automotive market is navigating through a difficult phase characterized by high interest rates. These rates affect the cost of floorplanning—the method dealerships use to finance their inventory of vehicles. Believe it or not, car dealers don’t own their lot inventory outright.
As a result, holding onto large volumes of new cars becomes increasingly costly for dealers. To mitigate this financial strain, dealerships are expected to become more aggressive in selling new cars as the year progresses.
Right now, new car dealers are already grappling with shockingly high inventories. Check out the slowest (and fastest) cars to sell today.
The Ripple Effect on Used Car Prices
The push to offload new cars at lower prices sets off a chain reaction in the entire market. Lower new car prices put downward pressure on used car values. Used car prices had been steadily falling, only to rise slightly in the past month.
There needs to be a reasonable price difference between new and used cars to attract buyers toward older models, and as prices for new vehicles drop, so too must the prices of used ones. This ensures that both segments of the market adjust to maintain consumer interest across the board.
Simply put, as new car incentives get better, used car prices tend to fall as sellers try to attract buyers. You, as the buyer, can take advantage of that in the months ahead.
The Best Time to Buy: Late November and December
Overall, the end of the year is always the best time to shop for car. During the coming months, dealerships are keen to clear out existing inventory to make room for the new model year vehicles arriving daily. This urgency is reflected in the kinds of incentives they offer: deeper discounts, more attractive financing options, and generous trade-in values.
These new car incentives also translate to lower used car prices. So no matter what type of vehicle you are in the market for, lower prices and better APR offers are just a few months ahead.
👉 Free Car Buying Help Is Here!
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The 3 Worst Mistakes a Used Car Buyer Can Make Today
At CarEdge, we dedicate ourselves to helping people navigate the car market, whether they’re buying or selling, with the ultimate goal of saving money, time, and hassle. This week, we’ve tapped into the expertise of CarEdge Co-Founder Ray Shefska to uncover the three biggest blunders you can make when purchasing a used car. If you like saving more and stressing less, you’ll want to avoid these costly mistakes!
1. Skipping a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Think about the little routines that keep you safe every day—like double-checking that your door is locked before you leave the house. It’s a simple step, but one that saves a lot of headaches later. Buying a used car should be approached with the same level of caution, which is why a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is critical.
What exactly is a PPI? It’s a thorough mechanical evaluation performed before you finalize a vehicle purchase. Although there isn’t a universal checklist, your mechanic will typically examine:
- Tires and suspension
- Fluids
- Brakes
- Engine
- Transmission
- Exhaust system
- HVAC system
- And more
Each mechanic may have a slightly different process, but it’s likely they’ll identify at least one issue. It’s then up to you to decide how much maintenance you’re willing to take on post-purchase.
👉 Learn more about pre-purchase inspections and why they’re essential.
2. Ignoring Potential Insurance Costs
In 2023, auto insurance rates in the U.S. saw a staggering 24% increase, reaching an all-time high. This surge was fueled by escalating repair costs, more frequent natural disasters, and an uptick in car accidents, all contributing to significant losses for insurers. And the costs are not expected to plateau—projections indicate a further 7% rise in rates for 2024.
However, there’s a silver lining for used car buyers: auto insurance rates typically decrease by 3.4% for each year a vehicle ages. But given the sharp increases in recent years, it’s crucial to check how much insuring a particular vehicle will cost you before making a purchase.
How do you check? It’s simple. Contact your insurance provider, provide the make and model or even the VIN of the vehicle you’re considering, and request a quote. This will ensure you have a complete understanding of the ongoing costs associated with the vehicle.
👉 Learn about the factors driving up car insurance rates and how to manage them.
3. Lacking Patience
Timing is everything in the used car market. We track weekly used car price updates, and it’s clear that volatility continues. But there’s hope on the horizon for deal seekers.
Historically, we start to see wholesale values for used cars decline between April and June, a trend that typically carries over to the retail market soon after.
If you’re not in a hurry, consider timing your purchase to take advantage of market trends. Retail prices for used cars tend to decrease during late spring and summer. This is often due to several factors, including increased incentives on new cars—such as APR offers, cash back, and lease deals—which attract buyers to new vehicles and can lower demand in the used market.
As dealers face high interest rates and the costs of maintaining large inventories (known as floorplanning costs), they become more aggressive in selling new cars. This in turn puts downward pressure on used car prices to maintain a reasonable price differential between new and used vehicles.
The best times to buy are typically July through August and at the end of the year when dealers are eager to meet their sales targets and offer substantial deals.
👉 We track the best NEW car deals monthly here
Empower Your Car Buying Journey
Avoiding these three pitfalls can make a significant difference in your used car buying experience. At CarEdge, we’re committed to making your car buying journey as smooth and beneficial as possible. To further enhance your buying strategy, we invite you to download our CarEdge Car Buying Cheat Sheets. These free resources are packed with tips and insights to help you negotiate better deals, understand market trends, and ultimately make informed decisions.
Download your free CarEdge Car Buying Cheat Sheets today and get equipped to navigate the car market with confidence!
New Inflation Report Spells High Auto Loan Rates, But Falling Car Prices
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for March has thrown cold water on any hopes of a decrease in car loan interest rates for the remainder of 2024. With inflation surging unexpectedly to 3.5% year-over-year, the financial landscape is bracing for continued high interest rates. And for car buyers, that means auto loan rates are unfortunately going to remain high.
However, there was some good news for drivers in the latest report. Let’s dive into the details.
Goodbye June Rate Cut: Inflation Higher Than Expected
The increase from February’s 3.2% inflation rate to March’s 3.5% signifies the highest annual gain seen in the last six months, underscoring a stubbornly high cost of living. Chances are you’ve felt it in your own day to day expenses. This uptick, fueled by rising gas prices and enduring high costs for mortgages and rent, suggests a challenging path ahead for reducing inflation. Consequently, the Federal Reserve is likely to maintain higher interest rates to combat these pressures.
Just how likely is a June rate cut at this point? Market predictions in favor of a Fed rate cute plummeted from 73% to a mere 21%. Following the CPI report, the picture is clear: interest rates are set to remain elevated.
Car Prices Fall… Slightly
Buried in the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic’s data-heavy CPI Report is a glimmer of good news for car buyers. Year-over-year, used car prices are down 2.2%. We’ve seen similar trends at wholesale markets. For new cars, there’s less to rejoice about. New car prices are essentially flat, falling just 0.1% in the past 12 months.
Auto Loan Rate Forecasts For 2024
For car buyers, relief is slipping out of view. Today’s inflation report means that more of the same can be expected for the next several months. According to Experian’s most recent State of the Automotive Finance Market report, today’s average car loan rates stand at 7.18% for new cars and a staggering 11.93% for used cars.
These rates are significantly impacted by the Fed’s monetary policy stance, and with the central bank likely to forgo rate cuts, we can expect these high-interest rates to continue.
The Silver Lining: New Car Inventory Brings APR Incentives
However, it’s not all doom and gloom for car buyers. The silver lining lies in today’s new car inventory numbers. With new car inventories higher than in recent years, manufacturers are offering more enticing incentives to attract buyers. These incentives include lower APRs, cash incentives, and great lease deals. These OEM incentives provide a rare opportunity to secure more favorable loan terms, even in 2024’s prevailing high-rate environment.
As of April,5 manufacturers are offering zero percent financing for select models, and four more are offering 0.9% APRs. Several additional OEMs feature APR offers under 5% right now. With the average new car selling for over $46,000, this adds up to thousands in savings over time.
👉 See the best new car offers this month
In essence, while the broader economic indicators point towards continued high-interest rates for auto loans, market-driven factors like increased new car inventories and subsequent manufacturer incentives could offer some relief to car buyers. But there’s no hiding the fact that broader economic inflation continues to hit us all, even as policymakers play down the impacts.
The next CPI Report is scheduled to be released on May 15, 2024. That’s our next best look at when auto loan rates could finally be set to drop.
Hyundai Is Out-Selling Toyota In One Key Market. It’s Not Even Close
After bringing hybrids to the masses with the Prius over 20 years ago, Toyota resisted moving into full battery electric vehicles for as long as possible. One big competitor from Korea, however, is diving headfirst into EVs. Here’s how Hyundai is beating Toyota in one growing market segment, with the gap between the two continuing to widen.
Toyota’s bZ4X Slows to a Trickle
Toyota is aiming for millions of EV sales in just six years’ time, but in 2024, the automaker has a VERY long way to go. After launching the Toyota bZ4X as the brand’s first fully-electric model in mid-2022, sales have failed to take off.
With a base MSRP of $43,070 and fully-loaded prices climbing to $53,000, prospective buyers expect few concessions with their car. But compared to the competition, the bZ4X’s range and charging speed leave much to be desired. Especially for $50,000 and no chance of a federal tax credit.
Toyota has struggled to sell over 1,000 copies of the bZ4X per month since its debut. EV market share numbers make this clear as day. For comparison, the Prius routinely logs between 4,000 and 5,000+ sales in any given month. Toyota is used to winning, but their electric offerings have come with challenges.
Similarly, the Lexus RZ, which is powered by the same powertrain, hasn’t fared much better since launching in early 2023. Sales totaled 5,386 in all of 2023. Toyota and Lexus’ twin EVs were developed in partnership with Subaru, whose Solterra has also struggled to sell. In fact, there’s a 363-day supply of new Subaru Solterras on the market today, the fifth highest in the US market.
However, not all electric vehicles are selling so poorly in 2024. To see an example of better times, we need look no further than rival Hyundai’s EV sales.
Hyundai’s Success Proves Performance Matters to EV Buyers
Hyundai is out-selling Toyota 3:1 in one key market segment: electric vehicles. Using CarEdge Pro, we can see that 4,445 Hyundai IONIQ 5s and 2,517 Hyundai IONIQ 6s were sold in the past 45 days, as of mid April. Toyota’s sole EV, the bZ4X, totaled just 1,066 sales in the same period. The Lexus RZ tallied 912 sales.
Looking to the most recent official OEM data, here’s how EV sales have played out for the two competitors from 2022 through Q1 of 2024:
| Make | Model | 2022 Total | 2023 Total | Q1 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai | IONIQ 5 | 22,982 | 33,918 | 6,822 |
| Hyundai | IONIQ 6 | 0 | 12,999 | 3,646 |
| Toyota | bZ4X | 1,220 | 9,329 | 1,897 |
What’s driving Hyundai’s success?
Sure, looks could play a part, but the driving force behind Hyundai’s EV success boils down to EV performance. Buyers spending over $40,000 on their first EV expect fast charging, long range, and an all-around special vehicle. Hyundai’s EVs check all of those boxes and more.
Here’s how the IONIQ 5 compares to Toyota’s bZ4X for the 2024 model year:
| Make | Model | Base MSRP | Average Selling Price | EPA Range | 10-80% Charge Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota | bZ4X | $43,070 | $47,641 | 222 - 252 miles | 30 - 35 min |
| Hyundai | IONIQ 5 | $41,800 | $49,226 | 220 - 303 miles | 18 minutes |
| Hyundai | IONIQ 6 | $42,450 | $45,415 | 270 - 361 miles | 18 minutes |
But there’s more to the story than the above EV performance numbers. The bZ4X features additional quirks that complicate ownership for anyone who travels long distances by car.
- Although the bZ4X takes 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%, real-world tests show that it takes another 33 minutes just to charge from 80% to 90%. That matters if you need the extra driving range to make it to your destination. Trying to get to 100% state of charge in the bZ4X? Forget about it. That takes another hour. In Hyundai’s EVs, topping off from 80% to 90% takes another 10 minutes at most DC fast chargers, with the climb to 100% taking a similar amount of time.
- An even bigger road trip hurdle: Toyota cautions on it’s own website that the bZ4X is subject to DC fast-charging limitations of various kinds. Toyota goes as far as to recommend against fast-charging more than two times per day. How does this translate to a cross-country road trip, where charging 5+ times may be required? Learn more from Toyota.
Toyota Goes All-In on Hybrids
Can you really blame them? In 2023, Toyota’s US hybrid sales climbed to new records. 2023 electrified vehicle sales of 565,800 represented 29 percent of Toyota’s sales. With recent announcements that all versions of the 2025 Camry will be hybrids, and even the redesigned 4Runner will be available as a hybrid, Toyota is moving further in that direction. Long live the Prius.
But for those wanting a true EV, without the extra baggage of a combustion engine and the maintenance needs that come with it, Toyota is moving at a snail’s pace. Despite reiterating as recently as November that it plans to sell 3.5 million EVs annually by 2030, only one additional Toyota EV is slated to arrive anytime soon. That will be a three-row electric SUV expected to launch in 2025 at the earliest. The targeted competition? Kia’s EV9 and Hyundai’s IONIQ 7.
As far as mainstream electric crossovers, Toyota fans will have to settle for the bZ4X for the foreseeable future.
Hyundai and Toyota: Two Different Game Plans
Hyundai and Toyota’s EV successes and failures highlight that in the EV market, charging, range, and overall value are paramount to buyers cross-shopping today’s electric offerings. But make no mistake: this is a story of differing priorities at the corporate level.
As Hyundai continues to refine its EV offerings, Toyota continues to prioritize hybrid models. And if Toyota’s past sales are any indication, it could be a smart move for their overall business growth in North America. Hyundai, on the other hand, is driving full speed ahead into a fully-electric future. Which will ultimately come out on top? 2024’s sales numbers will shed light on that.
Are you a bigger fan of Toyota’s hybrids, or Hyundai’s EVs? Let us know in the comments below.
![Tesla Cancels $25,000 Model 2 Plans, Shifts Focus to Robotaxis [Updated: Musk Responds]](https://caredge.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Tesla-logo.png){kind=logo}
Tesla Cancels $25,000 Model 2 Plans, Shifts Focus to Robotaxis [Updated: Musk Responds]
In a startling turn of events, Reuters reports that Tesla has abandoned its plans to launch a $25,000 electric vehicle, a project that is integral to the company’s strategy for making electric vehicles more accessible and expanding its EV market domination. This move has sent ripples through the auto industry and financial markets. Here’s what we know about this developing story.
Update: Multiple outlets are reporting that Tesla CEO Elon Musk has responded to Reuter’s report, refuting the claims made in the article. More updates to come!
Reuters: Development of the Tesla Model 2 Halted
According to breaking news reported by Reuters, the word among Tesla leadership is that all work on the $25,000 Tesla in development is halted, effective immediately. Tesla had previously indicated in January that production of the affordable model, often referred to as the Model 2, would commence at its Texas factory in the second half of 2025.
However, the company is now shifting its focus towards developing robotaxis, despite the greater engineering and regulatory challenges this entails. This pivot was revealed in a late February meeting attended by numerous Tesla employees, where Elon Musk’s directive to prioritize robotaxis was communicated.
The decision to cancel the Model 2 project has left industry analysts questioning Tesla’s ability to meet its ambitious sales targets. Elon Musk had aspired for Tesla to sell 20 million vehicles by 2030, a goal that now seems more elusive with the affordable car’s cancellation.
The company’s current cheapest model, the rear-wheel drive Model 3 sedan, is priced at around $39,000 in the U.S., well above the intended price point of the Model 2. Federal tax credits have contributed to Tesla’s sales growth, but have been reduced or eliminated for some Tesla models in recent months.
Chinese EVs a Looming Threat
Tesla’s shift in strategy comes amid intense competition, particularly from Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers who have successfully entered the market with significantly lower-priced models. This competitive pressure appears to have influenced Tesla’s strategic redirection.
The move comes less than a week after Tesla began a ‘free’ Full Self-Driving trial for all Tesla drivers with capable hardware. It remains to be seen if Tesla’s biggest FSD promo to date will drive conversions towards the $12,000 add-on.
As Tesla discontinues its plans for the Model 2, the company’s focus on robotaxis and high-end models like the Cybertruck continues. However, this approach has raised concerns about Tesla’s market positioning and long-term profitability, given the rapid growth and pricing strategies of competitors, particularly in the burgeoning electric vehicle market in China.
This development is a significant deviation from Tesla’s long-standing goal of making electric vehicles more affordable and widely accessible, a vision that has been central to its brand and business model. The cancellation of the affordable Tesla model and the company’s recalibrated focus on robotaxis and higher-end vehicles mark a critical juncture in its journey, with potential implications for its competitive edge and market share.
As Tesla navigates these strategic shifts and market dynamics, the automotive industry and investors are keenly watching to see how these changes will affect the company’s trajectory and the broader electric vehicle landscape. This is a developing story, and further updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.
6 New Cars and Trucks Poised for Price Drops in 2024
As new cars fill dealership lots, OEMs are lowering prices to sell cars. From Jeep to Ford, and even Mazda’s new flagship SUV, price drops have already arrived. However, as we’re about to see, there are several other models that are in desperate need of MSRP reductions given today’s oversupply and weak sales. Don’t pay a dollar over MSRP for these new cars, trucks, and SUVs that are primed for price cuts in 2024. Especially when you have the power of CarEdge Pro at your fingertips.
Let’s dive into the details.
Nissan Altima: The Sunset of a Sedan
Base MSRP: $27,140
Average Selling Price: $30,463
Current Market Day Supply: 198 days
After decades leading Nissan sales forward, the Altima will be discontinued in 2025. It’s true that the Altima has become the butt of jokes in car culture in recent times, but its absence will be immediately felt by those who simply need an affordable ride.
But Nissan has its reasons. Altima sales have been in decline, dropping 8.5% in 2023 while most of the rest of Nissan’s lineup saw modest gains. There remains a 198-day supply in America today. With the looming discontinuation on the horizon, it’s prime time for a price drop.
Browse Nissan Altima Listings | See Consumer Reports Ratings
Dodge Hornet: The Crossover That Won’t Sell
Base MSRP: $32,995
Average Selling Price: $41,905
Current Market Day Supply: 646 days
The Dodge Hornet is facing a surplus, with the third-highest inventory among all new cars as of April 2024. This equates to nearly two years of supply if production were to cease today.
Why are buyers balking at the Hornet? For one thing, there are 4 recalls for the Hornet as of early 2024. Consumer Reports rates it at 55 out of 100 overall, with average reliability but above-average owner satisfaction scores. However, it’s full of compromises, too many perhaps. It’s not as spacious as competing crossovers, but it’s bigger than a sedan. Fuel economy is among the worst in the compact crossover segment at 24 miles per gallon in combined driving. There is a plug-in hybrid version that fares much better.
Browse Dodge Hornet Listings | See Consumer Reports Ratings
Grand Wagoneer: Luxury at a Standstill
Base MSRP: $93,945
Average Selling Price: $101,667
Current Market Day Supply: 240 days
Jeep’s Grand Wagoneer, despite being the brand’s priciest model, is overdue for a price cut. Jeep has already reduced prices on other models in 2024, from the Wrangler to the Gladiator.
With stagnant sales, Stellantis already announced a pivot away from earlier plans of turning Wagoneer into a luxury spinoff. Simply put, the market is ripe for price negotiations on this model. Even with major discounts, are you willing to spend $100,000 on a Jeep? Believe it or not, that’s about how much these luxury Jeeps cost.
Browse Grand Wagoneer Listings | See Consumer Reports Ratings
Nissan Titan: Underdog in the Truck Market
Base MSRP: $48,050
Average Selling Price: $56,022
Current Market Day Supply: 287 days
The Nissan Titan, with its price hiked by $5,000 for the 2024 model year, contrasts starkly against its modest sales figures, selling just 19,189 units in 2023. This lack of market traction, especially compared to giants like Ford’s F-Series, suggests that the Titan could see significant price negotiations or cuts to align with its market performance, making it an attractive option for truck buyers looking for value.
If Nissan truly wants to grab truck market share, they’re going to have to work for it with aggressive pricing. Don’t pay a dollar over MSRP for a new Titan in 2024.
Browse Nissan Titan Listings | See Consumer Reports Ratings
Subaru Solterra: Electric Slowdown
Base MSRP: $46,340
Average Selling Price: $50,103
Current Market Day Supply: 363 days
Performance-wise, the Solterra just isn’t worth the high price tag. But I may change my thinking if Subaru takes cues from the sluggish market and drops prices by $5,000. The Subaru Solterra, already experiencing price cuts in Australia, faces slow sales in North America and even slower charging speeds.
Its strengths? High ground clearance and futuristic Subaru looks are two that come to mind. With sales failing to take off more than 18 months after launch and plenty of 2023 Solterras STILL sitting on the lot, it’s past time for a big price cut for this EV.
Browse Subaru Solterra Listings | See Consumer Reports Ratings
Volvo C40: A Premium EV Ripe For Price Cuts
Base MSRP: $54,895
Average Selling Price: $58,658
Current Market Day Supply: 425 days
Volvo’s EV sales have yet to take off. With stiff competition from the likes of Tesla, the German luxury brands, and even Hyundai Motor Group, it’s not clear that they ever will. The C40 isn’t a bad car by any measure. It’s luxurious, great for urban tight spaces, and can go 297 miles on a charge.
But the price is a bit higher than many similar offerings in today’s market. Today, there’s a 425-day supply of Volvo C40s. That’s 8x the typical market average. Will Volvo take cues from today’s EV buyers and lower prices? We hope so.
Browse Volvo C40 Listings | See Consumer Reports Ratings
Don’t Settle For Less Than a Bargain
While these six models have not yet seen the price cuts that other vehicles have in 2024, their high inventory and slow sales make them prime candidates for negotiation. Keeping an eye on these models could lead to significant savings, but only if you’re patient.
Even before OEMs announce revised pricing, these six models are highly negotiable, especially if you are equipped with these insights and local market data. Don’t forget that we have not one, not two, but SEVEN free car buying cheat sheets available for download. Get your free resources here.
The good news is that some automakers are already making moves and lowering prices.
Upside-Down on Your Car Loan? How to Navigate Negative Equity
Diving into the world of car ownership can lead you into murky waters, especially when grappling with negative car equity. Imagine owing more on your car loan than the vehicle is worth – a situation many Americans face today. This comprehensive guide illuminates the shadowy depths of negative equity: exploring its causes, the impact of recent economic trends, and, most importantly, effective strategies to steer clear of or manage it if you’re already caught in its grip.
Understanding Negative Equity: How It Happens
Negative equity, often described as being “upside-down” on a car loan, occurs when the loan balance surpasses the vehicle’s current market value. This financial quagmire can ensnare car owners due to:
- Depreciation: Cars depreciate the moment they’re driven off the lot. If the loan repayment lags behind this depreciation rate, negative equity can develop.
- Long-term Loans: Extending loan periods results in slower principal repayment, risking negative equity as cars depreciate faster than the loan diminishes.
- Small Down Payments: Minimal initial down payments increase the financed amount, heightening negative equity risks if the car’s value rapidly decreases.
- Rolling Over Loans: Incorporating remaining debt from a previous car into a new loan can immediately create negative equity.
Understanding these factors is key to avoiding or mitigating negative equity and ensuring a financially stable ownership experience.
The Rise of Negative Equity in Car Loans
The phenomenon of negative car equity has been escalating, with recent Edmunds data revealing that 1 in 5 trade-ins have negative equity. The situation has become particularly pronounced in the new car market, where 20.4% of trade-ins are underwater, marking a significant jump from 14.9% in Q4 of 2021.
The average negative equity on car loans has surged to $6,054, setting a new record. This increase is partly attributed to the economic fluctuations during the pandemic when many consumers purchased vehicles at higher prices, leading to loans that exceeded the depreciating value of their cars. Consequently, drivers who bought cars during the pandemic are now facing the brunt of this financial imbalance.
What Negative Equity Means For You
Having negative equity on a car loan is more than just a numerical imbalance. It’s a predicament that can have lasting financial repercussions. Negative equity limits the owner’s flexibility, complicating efforts to sell or trade in the car without incurring losses.Â
For those looking to buy a new vehicle, negative equity means that the debt from the current car can roll over into the new loan. This leads to a cycle of increased debt that never seems to go away. Moreover, negative equity can affect credit scores and future loan conditions.Â
To combat these implications, car buyers should prioritize loan repayment strategies that target the principal amount. Also, consider shorter loan terms to align with the depreciation of the vehicle, and stay informed about the car’s current market value to make timely financial decisions. If you’d rather avoid the risk altogether, leasing is also an option.
Tackling Negative Equity
Navigating out of negative equity requires a proactive and strategic approach. Here are comprehensive steps and solutions to help you manage or eliminate negative car equity:
- Accelerate Loan Repayment: One of the most straightforward methods to reduce negative equity is to make additional payments towards the loan’s principal. This will decrease the loan balance faster than the standard amortization schedule.
- Refinancing the Loan: If you have good credit and interest rates have dropped since you took out your original loan, refinancing can be a smart option.
- Consider a Shorter Loan Term: When refinancing, opting for a shorter loan term can result in higher monthly payments but will significantly reduce the interest cost and speed up equity building.
- Lease a New Car: If you’re frequently facing negative equity with purchased vehicles, leasing might be a better option. Leasing a car can provide predictable monthly payments and eliminate the risk of negative equity, as you return the vehicle at the end of the lease term.
- Cash-Injection on Trade-In: When looking to trade in a vehicle with negative equity, consider making a cash payment to cover the gap between the vehicle’s value and the loan balance. This can prevent the negative equity from rolling into the new loan.
- Stay Informed About Your Car’s Value: Regularly check your vehicle’s current market value using tools like Sell With CarEdge, where you can receive multiple online offers at once. This awareness can help you make informed decisions about when to sell or trade-in the vehicle before the negative equity grows too large.
By employing these strategies, you can tackle negative equity head-on and work towards a more stable financial situation with your vehicle. Each approach has its considerations, so it’s important to evaluate your financial circumstances and car value carefully before deciding on the best course of action.
GAP Insurance and Negative Equity
(Related) 👉 Check out this guide to navigating the finance office like a pro!
GAP (Guaranteed Asset protection) insurance is indeed related to the topic of negative equity in car loans. Thus kind of insurance is designed to cover the difference between the actual cash value of a vehicle and the balance still owed on the financing (loan or lease) in the event that the car is totaled or stolen. Here’s how it connects to negative equity:
- protection Against Negative Equity: If a car is totaled or stolen, standard auto insurance policies usually cover only the current market value of the vehicle. If you owe more on your loan than the car is worth (negative equity), you would have to pay the difference out of pocket. GAP insurance covers this “gap,” preventing the financial strain of paying off a loan for a car you no longer possess.
- Financial Safety Net: For car owners who are in negative equity, GAP insurance acts as a safety net, ensuring that they are not financially burdened by the remaining loan balance in case of total loss or theft of the vehicle.
- Recommended for Long-Term Loans and Small Down Payments: For those who finance with long-term loans or small down payments, it’s smart to consider GAP insurance. It’s especially wise for leases and loans where the term extends beyond the standard three to four years.
In the context of managing negative equity, GAP insurance doesn’t reduce the loan balance or directly help in getting out of negative equity. However, it provides financial protection against the consequences of having negative equity in the event of an accident or theft.
Learn more about GAP insurance with this in-depth guide
Help Is Available
Negative car equity, while daunting, is manageable with smart decisions and strategic actions. Understanding its roots and applying tailored strategies can lead car owners from the depths of financial strain to the clearer waters of financial stability and equity.
Want to learn more about how your particular situation may impact your ability to buy or sell? Chat with a CarEdge expert today. We’re here to help!
Ford’s EV Sales Are Rising. Tesla Chargers and Price Cuts Fuel the SurgeÂ
Electric vehicles are in the news for all the wrong reasons these days. Automakers are losing money as the clock ticks towards electrification goals set by the US government. Ford, who has struggled selling EVs to its core following, has gone so far as to cut two-thirds of the workforce at the Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, Michigan. But there’s good news, if you look beyond the headlines. Price cuts have come in waves, sending Ford’s EV prices falling. Ford’s EVs now have access to the Tesla Supercharger network, essentially fixing previous charging woes overnight. New numbers from CarEdge Data reveal that something is working, and Ford is selling EVs in higher numbers than ever before.
Here’s a closer look at Ford’s EV sales turnaround.
Ford’s EV Sales Are Up 114%
Over the course of March, Ford’s electric vehicle sales rates jumped 114%, as measured by running 45-day sales totals. For Ford, this is an unprecedented spike in EV sales.
For Ford’s first flagship EV, the Mustang Mach-E, sales rates are up 179% in just 30 days. In the 45 days leading up to March 1, 2024, 2,096 Mustang Mach-Es were sold in America. By March 30, the running total had climbed to 5,868 sold. This uptick in sales brough the Mustang Mach-Es market day supply down from 510 days at the start of March, to 137 days by the end of the month.
The best-selling electric truck in America, the F-150 Lightning, also saw sales rise last month. The Lightning’s 45-day running sales total climbed from 2,193 sales leading up to March 1, all the way to 3,334 sales by the end of the month. Ford’s electric truck sales jumped 52% in just three weeks.
For both models, nearly all sales were for the remaining 2023 models. 2024 models are just now arriving on dealer lots, making up just 19% of Ford’s EV lot inventory on April 1.
Who to Thank: Lower Prices, Or Tesla Superchargers?
Who is Ford to thank for their accelerating EV sales, their pricing strategy, or Tesla? Perhaps it’s a little bit of both.
On February 29, Ford announced that all of its EV owners have access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. To the uninitiated, this may not sound like much news at all. But for any non-Tesla EV driver (like myself), it’s a big deal. Tesla may have its faults, but one of its many strengths is its charging network. Frankly, most other charging networks are horrible. Until now, the Tesla Supercharger network has been reserved for Tesla drivers only. Now, first with Ford and then with Rivian, Tesla is opening up access to other automakers.
Here’s a look at the current extent of the Tesla Supercharger network in 2024:
At last, reliable EV charging has arrived for Ford’s customers (as long as they have an adaptor, provided free of charge by Ford). But there’s more to this story than easy charging.
Just how far have Ford’s EV prices fallen recently?
As of April 1, the average selling price for a new Ford Mustang Mach-E is $52,927. At the start of 2024, the Mustang Mach-E’s average transaction price was $56,546. That’s a 6.4% price drop, all within a few months.
For the F-150 Lightning, average transaction prices fell from $71,118 at the beginning of 2024 to $66,391 by the end of the first quarter. That is also a 6.4% drop over three months.
Ford’s used EV prices have taken quite the tumble, too. Used F-150 Lightning prices are down 13.8%, and the Mustang Mach-E’s average used sale prices are down 10.5% in the first quarter of 2024.
Taking EVs Seriously Pays Off For Ford
EV skeptics repeat two major obstacles that keep them hesitant to make the switch: access to reliable charging, and high prices. In the span of a month, Ford has addressed both of these pain points. This is great news for EV buyers, and also something that Ford is surely happy to see.
Will the good news continue for Ford? It’s far too soon to tell. The remainder of 2024 will prove to be a make-or-break time for not only Ford, but all electric vehicle makers. But it’s safe to say that lower prices and better charging are two big steps in the right direction.Â
Want to do your own local market research? CarEdge Data is for you.
See the latest EV market share update here for more details.
Tools For Deal Hunters: The Best End-of-Month Car Specials in March 2024
Welcome to your go-to guide for March’s end-of-month car specials. Learn the art of deal hunting with free resources like cheat sheets and strategy cards, and deepen your knowledge with our free Deal School course. We’ll also share the top 5 car deals right now. With the quarter ending and market dynamics in play, now is a prime time to find your perfect car and save A LOT of money. Let us help you navigate the deals and drive home happy.
The Best Tools For Deal Hunters
At CarEdge, we want to help ALL car buyers save money and avoid the hassle that usually comes with car buying. Core to that goal is providing both free and premium resources for all. As you head out to find the best car deals, we want to equip you with these tools.
You won’t find these anywhere else!
CarEdge Free Resources
- Car Buying Cheat Sheets: Download 7 PDFs to help you level the playing field. Topics include a general car buying cheat sheet, negotiation guides, leasing guides, and our guide for first-time car buyers. Get your 100% free downloads here.
- Want the most important info all in a pocket-sized guide? Print this car buying strategy card.
- The Best Car Deals, All in One Spot: We’re deal hunters ourselves, so we’re always tracking the latest new car deals. These are your go-to pages, save them to your bookmarks! All of these are updated monthly:
The Overall Best Finance, Cash, and Lease Deals This Month
The Best Lease Deals This Month
- Free Data: For any new or used car, see cost of ownership data, maintenance cost data, insurance costs, and more. Here’s your jumping off point.
- Deal School: Want to learn from Ray and Zach? Master negotiation and learn the difference between a good deal and a bad one with our 100% free course, Deal School. Sign up and track your progress today.
Powerful Premium Resources
If you’re interested in taking your car buying skills AND savings to the next level, we have options for every budget…
Looking for advanced behind-the-scenes insights? Try CarEdge Data. See local price and inventory metrics that typically only the dealers have. It’s empowered car buying for all!
Not sure if you’re getting a good deal? Chat with a CarEdge Coach! We have options to fit every budget. Learn more about how we can help.
The Best Car Deals This Month
Remaining 2023 Ford F-150s
The Best Offer: Salem Ford in New Hampshire has remaining 2023 F-150s discounted between $2,450 and $4,900 off of MSRP. This is BEFORE any rebates or incentives. Free shipping is available within 700 miles.
Better yet, Ford is offering 1.9% APR for 72 months, plus NO payments for 90 days.
Remaining 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Models
The Best Offer: Key Hyundai is discounting their 4 remaining 2023 Santa Fe’s by $3,400 to $4,500 off of MSRP. Free shipping is available within 700 miles.
On top of the MSRP discount, Hyundai is offering 0% APR for remaining 2023 Santa Fe Hybrids.
Remaining 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-Es
The Best Offer: Ford is offering huge discounts and incentives on the Mustang Mach-E electric crossover. Reviewers love it, but the previously high price kept many customers away. Now, it’s more affordable than ever.
Cash Discount: 0% APR for 72 months + $3,000 off MSRP + No payments for 90 days
Mazda: 0% APR Offers For Multiple Models
The Best Offers: Right Now, Mazda is offering 0% APR for 36 months for the 2024 CX-50 and 2024 CX-30. Also, the 2024 CX-5 is available for 0.9% APR. With the average new car loan rate near 10% APR right now, these deals could save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. We have pre-negotiated prices secured to take the hassle out of buying your Mazda.
See these listings (with FREE home delivery available in select regions)
2024 Toyota RAV4
The Best Offer: $1,000 below MSRP for 2024 Toyota RAV4s. This is one of the best deals we’ve negotiated through our CarEdge Network of dealers. After all, the RAV4 is the best-selling crossover in America!
FREE home delivery is available in select regions.
Interested in this exclusive RAV4 deal? Let us know here, and we’ll get in touch.
Need a Car? Right Now Is the Time to Buy
The end of March is also the end of the quarter for automakers and car dealers. That means they’re particularly eager to sell cars at a discount to boost their numbers. Plus, with the Baltimore Bridge collapse threatening the auto industry, now is the time to buy for drivers who are in need of a car.
However, if you’re in no rush to drive home a new set of wheels, the end of the year is almost always the all-around best time of the year to buy. Waiting for year-end deals is always a good idea for those who can.
Need car buying advice, or perhaps your own deal coach? Learn more about how CarEdge can help you save more and stress less.
We’re real people helping you save real money!
Will the Baltimore Bridge Collapse Send Car Prices Skyward? What We Know
In the early hours of March 26, 2024, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore met a catastrophic fate as the Dali, a vessel with a capacity of 10,000 containers, collided with one of its pillars. This incident led to the immediate closure of the Port of Baltimore, a critical node in global logistics and trade. According to Maryland Governor Wes Moore, over 52 million tons of foreign cargo valued at around $80 billion were managed through this port last year, marking it as the 11th largest port in the United States.
Much of the Port’s trade involves the automotive industry, both domestic and international. This has car buyers wary of the tragic event’s possible impacts on car prices, just as new car prices are finally dropping.
Will the Baltimore bridge collapse impact car prices? If so, will the impact be immediate and broad, or more nuanced in nature? Let’s take a look at the knowns and unknowns as the situation stands today.
The Impacts on the Automotive Industry
The Port of Baltimore is not just any port; it stands as the premier gateway for the import and export of automobiles and light trucks in the United States. In 2023, the port processed 847,158 cars and light trucks. Major automakers like Nissan, Toyota, General Motors, and Volkswagen as well as luxury brands such as Audi. Jaguar Land Rover, and Lamborghini heavily rely on this port for their operations.
Auto imports from Germany, Mexico, Japan and the United Kingdom heavily use the Port of Baltimore, but will have to find immediate alternatives.
The collapse of the Baltimore Bridge casts a shadow of uncertainty over the automotive industry. The immediate impact will be felt in exports, particularly for American manufacturers like General Motors. However, imports will surely be impacted as well. With $23 billion of the port’s imports in 2023 being autos and light trucks, the disruption is bound to send ripples through the market.
The effects won’t be confined to Baltimore alone. The East Coast boasts eight major ports, with Baltimore ranking fourth in size. Ports like New York, Norfolk, and Savannah are already gearing up to absorb the diverted cargo. The shift could temporarily relieve some pressure, but the long-term ramifications remain uncertain, especially for European automakers who depend heavily on Baltimore’s roll-on/roll-off vehicle facilities.
Will the Baltimore Bridge Collapse Raise Car Prices?
Just as new car prices are finally beginning to fall, this disaster has the ability to reverse course for at least some of the auto market. To grasp where the new car market stands today, take a look at price trends over the past four months:
Despite the logistical nightmares, the current oversupply of new cars in the market might cushion the immediate economic impacts. New car prices have been falling for months. With a 90-day supply of new cars in the U.S., exceeding the usual 60 days, the overall automotive industry has a buffer against short-term disruptions. Some new cars now take over one year to sell on average.
See the Fastest and Slowest Selling Cars This Month
That’s not to say that relatively minor impacts are already being felt. Car Dealership Guy on X shared the first direct impacts known, with Jaguar Land Rover’s shipment of 800 vehicles being forced to detour.
The Clock Starts Now
Ultimately, impacts will be determined by how long it takes to rebuild. The original bridge took 5 years to construct. The US Coast Guard has said it may take ‘years’ to rebuild. If the Port of Baltimore is reopened sooner, impacts on the industry could be minimized. But if we’re talking 5 years without a fully operational port, new car prices could see a more pronounced impact.
We’ll update this page with the latest news on rebuilding and reopening as it becomes available.
Will Gas Prices Rise?
The bridge collapse could also tighten the screws on the region’s gasoline supply, particularly ethanol. With the Baltimore area relying on a blend of gasoline and ethanol delivered by train and barge, alternate routes must be found swiftly before East Coast gas prices tick upwards. Some industry analysts already predicted oil prices to approach $100/barrel before the bridge disaster.
You can always stay on top of regional gas price trends with AAA’s Gas Price Tracker.
Things Could Change
Following the Baltimore bridge collapse on March 26, repercussions on the automotive industry are still unfolding. As logistical networks strain under the sudden disruption, the resilience of the global trade and supply chain faces a significant test. For now, it appears that the following car brands are most likely to be affected in the near-term, according to Car Dealership Guy:
- Nissan
- Toyota
- General Motors
- Volvo Car
- Jaguar Land Rover
- Volkswagen including Audi, Lamborghini and Bentley
While supply chain constraints may be more immediate for these brands, the effects will be primarily on exports for OEMs like General Motors. Stay tuned to this page for the latest car market updates as more information becomes available.
