Is now a good time to buy a used Toyota?

Question

So I am currently looking at picking up a used Toyota, probably a Camry or maybe a RAV4, because my old sedan is finally giving up the ghost after 200k miles. I have about 15k saved up for this and I really need something reliable by the end of next month since my commute in the Denver area is brutal in the winter.

I have been doing a ton of research lately and it is just confusing. I read a bunch of articles saying that used car prices are finally cooling off and inventory is way better than it was a year ago, but then I check local listings and the prices for Toyotas with over 100k miles are still honestly insane? Like, my logic was that with interest rates being where they are, maybe fewer people are buying, but it feels like the seller market is still super stubborn. Plus I saw some forum posts suggesting that Toyota prices specifically might not drop as much as other brands because people hold onto them forever. Does anyone actually think the market is gonna shift in the next few weeks or am I just setting myself up for disappointment by waiting?

ugxkguexjd · Accepted Answer

Honestly dont wait. The Denver market is brutal and prices here barely move for reliable cars. I had issues finding a decent Toyota Camry LE 2.5L recently because everything over 100k miles was still priced way too high. Unfortunately, waiting another month probably wont help. You should just pull the trigger on a Toyota RAV4 XLE AWD if you find one, especially with those winters coming up.

srnzyfqvit · Answer

Honestly, waiting for the market to shift in Denver is just gonna leave you stranded. The inventory around here for reliable stuff is pathetic, and prices stay high because of the winter demand. I wouldnt bank on sellers suddenly dropping their prices before the snow hits. If you cant find a decent Camry, look into the Toyota Corolla 1.8L 4-Cyl or even a Toyota Highlander 3.5L V6 AWD. The Highlander is a lifesaver for those mountain commutes, but they hold value like crazy. Unfortunately, you might have to compromise on mileage or look outside the metro area if you want something that isnt falling apart. Dont get your hopes up for a bargain right now, just focus on finding something that isnt a rust bucket.

Farmiolne · Answer

Saw this earlier but just now responding. Denver winters are no joke and you really dont want to be shopping when the first blizzard hits. I learned that the hard way when my old car died right before a storm and I ended up overpaying for a desperate purchase. You should look beyond just the popular sedans since they command a massive premium around here. I would suggest checking these out instead:

Subaru Outback 2.5i

Excellent for snowy commutes though you have to watch the head gaskets on older models.

Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

It feels just as reliable as a Toyota but sometimes you can find them for slightly less if you hunt. Make sure to get a pre-purchase inspection on anything over 100k miles. Repairs will eat your savings fast if the previous owner neglected the transmission fluid. Be careful with private sellers who dont have service records.