Six in 10 used car dealers optimistic about Q4

More than six in 10 used car dealers (61%) say they are having a strong year, with 60% optimistic about their prospects for the final quarter of 2025, according to the latest Startline Used Car Tracker.

The October report shows improving sentiment among dealers, with 43% pointing to better stock availability and 38% noting rising consumer confidence. Other factors cited include stronger electric vehicle (EV) sales (36%), buyers turning to used cars due to high new car prices (33%), and more stable pricing in the sector (25%).

Despite the upbeat mood, some challenges remain. Nearly a third of dealers (30%) said the used EV market continues to be difficult, 28% believe the wider economy still feels unstable, 16% reported higher overheads despite strong sales, and 10% continued to struggle with sourcing stock.

Paul Burgess, CEO of Startline Motor Finance, said the findings reflected a marked shift in outlook.

“This is perhaps the strongest vote of confidence seen so far in our Tracker research. Large numbers of dealers believe that some of the biggest issues they have faced – such as stock availability, electrification and consumer confidence – are all noticeably improving,” he said.

The Startline Used Car Tracker, compiled monthly by APD Global Research, surveyed 61 dealers and 300 consumers for the October edition. The study has been running since 2022 to monitor attitudes in the used car market.