Talking Cars 386: Analyzing the Used-Car Market

We discuss how to find a reliable, dependable model

By Jon Linkov

November 21, 2022

Main theme: The used-car market continues to be on fire, with the average retail price of a used vehicle exceeding $29,000. We cover the marketplace, including what buyers will face when shopping for an affordable vehicle. We also give our suggestions on how to find a reliable model, as well as what to look for when inspecting a car you want to buy.

Audience question: A listener asked if it’s a wise choice to buy a car with a rebuilt title for their daughter to drive. We go over the merits and pitfalls of this type of vehicle.

Visit CR’s Used Car Marketplace.

Talking Cars 386 podcast panel discusses reliability — "Talking Cars" panelists Mike Quincy, Jon Linkov, and Steve Elek.

As with other "Talking Cars" episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You’ll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.

Driving the 2023 Lexus RX, episode 385
Driving the Kia Niro Hybrid, episode 384
Subaru BRZ vs. Toyota GR86, episode 383
Driving the Audi Q4 E-Tron, episode 382
We Answer Your Questions About Electric Vehicles and Hybrids, episode 381

Have a Question?

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Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.