Used Car Prices Are Rising in 2026, Here's How Arnold Shoppers Can Still Win

Hey, it's Jerime from Grateful Motors here on Jeffco Blvd in Arnold. If you've been paying attention to the news lately, you've probably heard that used car prices are going up again in 2026. And yeah, some of that's true, but the full story is way more nuanced than the headlines make it seem.

As someone who's been in the used car business here in Arnold for years, I'm seeing real opportunities for shoppers right now. The market isn't what it was in 2021 when prices were insane, and it's definitely not what it was pre-pandemic either. We're in this weird middle ground, and if you know what to look for, you can absolutely win.

Let me break down what's really happening with used car prices in 2026, what it means for you here in Arnold and the surrounding Jefferson County area, and how you can still get a solid deal, even if your credit isn't perfect.

The Real Story Behind 2026 Used Car Prices

Here's what the data actually shows: Yes, some segments are up year-over-year. Luxury cars are up about $2,000 (around 8%), pickup trucks are up $1,200 (about 3.7%), and hybrids and EVs are up around $600 (2.1%). So if you're in the market for a loaded-out BMW or a Tesla, you're going to feel that pinch.

But here's the thing most headlines miss, over the last four months, most categories have actually been declining. SUVs are down about $500, standard sedans and cars are down about $300, and even those pickup trucks that went up year-over-year have dropped more than $400 in the last few months.

What does that mean for you? It means timing matters. If you're shopping smart in early 2026, like right now, you're catching a wave of falling prices in most segments, combined with better financing rates (more on that in a sec). That's a rare combo we haven't seen in years.

Why More Inventory is Hitting the Market (And Why That's Good for You)

One of the biggest game-changers in 2026 is the wave of off-lease vehicles flooding back into the market. We're talking about roughly 400,000 additional newer used cars becoming available this year. These are typically 3-year-old vehicles coming off lease, so 2023 and 2022 models that have been well-maintained, have lower mileage, and are hitting lots like ours right now.

Back in 2022, leasing basically dried up during the pandemic craziness. Nobody was leasing, so now in 2026, there's this big gap. But the leases that were signed three years ago? They're all coming due now. More supply means better prices and more options for buyers in Arnold, Fenton, Imperial, and all over South County.

At Grateful Motors, we're seeing this firsthand. We've got quality inventory coming in regularly, vehicles like our 2021 Chevrolet Colorado priced at $15,990 for truck seekers, and our 2019 Ford Escape at $11,990, a solid value option for families or anyone wanting an SUV without breaking the bank.

Missouri Sales Tax Changes You Need to Know About (Feb 7 Update)

Okay, quick PSA because this just happened and it affects anyone buying a vehicle in Missouri right now: There have been some recent changes to Missouri sales tax on vehicle purchases as of February 7, 2026.

Without getting too deep in the weeds, the basic takeaway is this, depending on where you live in Jefferson County and what kind of vehicle you're buying, your sales tax calculation might be slightly different than it was a few months ago. Some local jurisdictions have adjusted their rates.

When you come in to Grateful Motors, we'll walk you through exactly what your sales tax will be based on your zip code and the vehicle you're purchasing. It's not a huge difference for most folks, but it's worth knowing so there are no surprises when you're finalizing your paperwork. Transparency matters, and we make sure you know every dollar you're spending before you sign anything.

Financing Rates Are Finally Coming Down

Here's more good news: The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates at three consecutive meetings, and we're expecting to see the best rates arrive in early 2026, which is basically right now. That means even if vehicle prices are a little elevated compared to a few years ago, your monthly payment can still be manageable because you're not getting crushed by interest.

This is especially important if you're dealing with bad credit or no credit. At Grateful Motors, we specialize in flexible financing for people who've been told "no" everywhere else. Bankruptcies, repossessions, first-time buyers, divorce, we work with all situations.

Our Sign and Drive experience is designed to get you approved and on the road as quickly as possible, often the same day. We work with a network of lenders who understand that your credit score doesn't tell your whole story. You've got a job? Proof of income? A couple pay stubs and a down payment (even if it's just $500)? We can probably work with you.

And with rates trending down, this is one of the better times in recent years to finance a used vehicle, even if your credit isn't perfect.

Where You Should Focus Your Search in 2026

If you're shopping on a budget, here's my advice: Focus on standard sedans, hatchbacks, and crossover SUVs. These segments have seen the most price relief over the last few months. Luxury vehicles are climbing, and full-size trucks are staying pretty high, but your everyday family sedans and compact SUVs? Those are where the deals are.

At Grateful Motors, we've got a solid mix. If you need something practical and affordable, check out vehicles like our 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe for just $6,990, or our 2015 Kia Optima if you want a sedan with good tech and reliability.

Looking for something with a bit more room? The 2017 Dodge Durango is a great three-row option, and the 2015 Ford Edge gives you solid utility without SUV-level pricing.

How to Win in the 2026 Arnold Used Car Market

So let's bring it all together. Here's how you actually win in this market:

1. Shop now, not later. Prices have been trending down for the last few months, and inventory is good. Don't wait until summer when demand picks up again.

2. Be flexible on make and model. If you're dead-set on one specific vehicle, you lose negotiating power. Be open to similar options and you'll find better deals.

3. Get pre-approved or at least know your budget. Come in with a realistic idea of what you can afford monthly. We can work with almost any situation, but knowing your range helps us find the right vehicle faster.

4. Don't skip the used SUVs and sedans. Trucks and luxury cars are holding their value. If you don't need a truck, you'll save money on an SUV or sedan.

5. Work with a dealership that specializes in flexible financing. Big franchise dealerships have strict lending criteria. At car dealerships in Arnold, MO like Grateful Motors, we work with bad credit, no credit, and tough situations every single day. We know how to get you approved when others won't even try.

6. Ask about Sign and Drive. If you've got a job and some income verification, we can often get you on the road the same day. No waiting, no runaround.

Bottom Line: Don't Believe the Hype

Yeah, used car prices are up in some segments. But they're also down in others, inventory is improving, financing rates are better, and dealerships like ours are working harder than ever to get people approved.

If you've been putting off buying a car because you think the market is impossible right now, I'm telling you: it's not. Come see us at 4046 Jeffco Blvd in Arnold. Bring your proof of income, your driver's license, and a realistic idea of what you need. We'll do the rest.

You can browse our full inventory anytime at gratefulmotors.com/inventory, or if you want to get the ball rolling on financing, fill out a quick credit app at gratefulmotors.com/creditapp.

The market isn't perfect, but opportunities are real. Let's get you back on the road.

: Jerime
Grateful Motors
4046 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, MO 63010
636-326-CARS