Used car values at BCA averaged £7,244 across October 2026, down on September’s figure by £73 (1.0%).
Despite pressures, engagement was largely positive with BCA monthly buyer numbers rising above 10,800 unique buyers in a month for the first time.
BCA COO Stuart Pearson said: “The used car market during October 2026 saw some of the toughest conditions for some time.
“External pressures were significant, with cost-of-living concerns and record-high fuel prices continuing to impact retail used car demand, and seasonal factors ranging from school holidays to the Budget also in play.”
BCA achieving its highest sold volume week for electric vehicles on record during October.
There was also demand for Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEVs).
Traditional fuel types are still impacted by record
Traditional fuel types are still impacted by record high pump prices, with diesel guide price performance continues to erode.
Pearson said: “While the current conditions are testing, it doesn’t feel like the whole market is sliding as we saw in late-2023.
“There are plenty of bright spots where demand remains positive and competitive, EVs will continue to be good news and clean 3–4-year-old well-presented vehicles continue to sell strongly, in contrast to the challenges facing older, higher mileage and poorer-condition stock where prices are tumbling and are unlikely to slow.
“Speed of sale remains key to success when the market is moving, and savvy sellers continue to use all of the remarketing channels that working with BCA brings.”
