The average used-car buyback price in August 2026 exceeded ¥1 million and reached its highest level in the past five years, although the decline in export volumes was a factor behind the decrease. A recovery is expected toward the winter bonus sales season.
The average used-car buyback price in August 2026 was rising at the preliminary stage, but fell slightly in the finalized figures. It nevertheless remained above ¥1 million and maintained its highest level for August in the past five years. The market is considered to have entered an adjustment phase while remaining at a high level.
Two main factors have been cited behind the decline. The first was a decrease in export volumes, which fell approximately 11.3% from 158,584 vehicles in June to 140,668 vehicles in July. The second was the stabilization of prices for newer used cars, as demand for newer vehicles eased with the stabilization of new-car supply.
A recovery is expected from the winter bonus sales season through the spring demand season. Over the longer term, a decline in the supply of 5- to 6-year-old vehicles and solid overseas demand could push market prices higher. The weaker yen and the high reputation of Japanese vehicles for quality overseas are also expected to support people considering selling their vehicles.
In the domestic and overseas buyback rankings by body type, kei cars continued to hold the top position among domestic vehicles, followed by compact cars/hatchbacks and minivans. Among imported vehicles, compact cars/hatchbacks moved into first place, while SUVs/off-road vehicles fell in the rankings.
The report announced this time and previous reports can be found on the official 車選びドットコム used-car buyback site and in the archive of previous reports.