Why are second hand cars so expensive in the US?

We had a period where the US government would pay a dealer $3000 for used cars of certain age and types. Now, the car had to be running, registered and licensed. The net effect was to completely dry up the used car market. Driving used car prices through the roof. After the $3000 incentive program expired, used car wholesale prices fell. While retail prices remained high. Some states have their own $3000 incentive based upon income. There is a back log for the program in Texas.

In short, trying to find a GOOD 10 to 15 year old car without paying through the snozzle is difficult. You near have to accept a wore out econo box. Which were not part of the $3000 incentive. Yet, were not all that common before. Now about all that one can find. Let alone professional repairs make it very expensive to maintain our cars. Most are unwilling to DYI and try to re-coup the cost of repairs upon selling.

We do have Craigslist and other web based private owner sites though. Which helps. If one doesn't mind a bit of repairs? Because our cheaper cars all need repairs and most will not pass the annual inspection. Which is why they are CHEAP. Many see what a repair cost is by a shop and give up. Or, are told only the original catalytic convertor ($300) will get a car past inspection. When the truth is a $90 will work fine. Or, just run cleaner and a tank of premium through will work.

You didn't give us enough information to help you. Where you live in the U.S. has a greater impact on how much you will pay for a car. In the more rural areas, more people HAVE to drive cars to do just about anything. So cars are plentiful, they buy them more frequently because they need reliable transportation since public transportation is limited or in some cases non existant. Also car insurance is much cheaper, Those people are more likely to sell their used cars more frequently and at a cheaper price. Also, look for private sellers as opposed to going to a dealership, check the pennysavers, laundromats, and anywhere a community bulletin board is posted.

You are an idiot.

We have to pay $4000 for a 15 year old car, never used to be that way, should be only $500 for a car that old. PURE GREED

Prices you see advertised online are what dealers offer. it's not the best place to buy a used car.

You