2025 Second - Hand Vehicle Prices in South Africa : Trends, Insights & Smart Buying Tips

 

2025 Second-Hand Vehicle Prices in South Africa: Trends, Insights & Smart Buying Tips

1. Market Overview: Steady Growth and Stabilisation

In early 2025, the South African used-car market has shown strong momentum. March 2025 saw ~29,900 used vehicles sold, a 9.6% year-on-year increase and 3.5% month-on-month rise, with the total value hitting R12.48 billion—a 10.9% YoY uplift. Meanwhile, the average price rose to approximately R417,700. Prices are now returning to pre-pandemic levels, offering better value for buyers.

2. What Are Buyers Paying?

By December 2024, the average used-car price had climbed to R408,516 amid high demand—but this has since flattened out slightly in 2025 to the R417,000–R420,000 range. In April 2025, that average stood at about R420,771, compared to R407,849 in April 2024.

3. What to Buy: Models Driving Value

  • Ford Ranger: Avg price R492,129; ~78,800 km
  • Toyota Hilux: Avg R464,244; ~107,600 km
  • Polo Vivo: Avg R202,428; ~55,100 km
  • Suzuki Swift: Avg R201,812; ~36,900 km

Affordable hatchbacks like the Polo Vivo and Swift remain hot for value-conscious buyers.

4. Why Prices Are Cooling in 2025

Recent forecasts indicate the market's two-year rollercoaster is slowing down:

  • New car production has normalised, easing trade-in supply pressure.
  • More repossessions and lease returns are entering auctions.
  • Economic improvements—inflation down to ~2.7–2.8% in mid-2025—have boosted affordability and buyer confidence.

5. Insights from the Market

  • SUVs dominate: ~38% of market share, especially Toyota, Ford, and VW models.
  • Budget segment (
  • Fuel type shift: Petrol holds ~64% share; hybrids and EVs growing fast.
  • Sales channels: Online platforms and organized dealerships are booming.
  • Vehicle age: 3–5-year-old cars make up ~44% of sales.

6. Buyer Guidance: Navigate Carefully

  • Check Code 3 status (previously written-off vehicles).
  • Watch for odometer tampering and falsified service records.
  • Insist on inspections and VIN reports.

7. Tips: How to Get the Best Deal in 2025

TipWhy It Matters
Focus on 3–5-year-old modelsBest balance of depreciation and reliability.
Compare across platformsSee pricing variations and avoid overpaying.
Request full history reportsReduce the risk of buying a problematic car.
Test-drive before committingSpot potential mechanical or safety issues.
Buy from reputable dealersOften includes warranties and finance options.

8. Final Takeaway

South Africa’s second-hand vehicle market in 2025 is stabilising after pandemic volatility. While average prices hover around R417,000–R420,000, bargains remain for hatchbacks like Polo Vivo and Swift. SUVs dominate volumes, while finance and affordability trends are improving. Research and due diligence will help you find the right deal.

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