ST. LOUIS — The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers to be cautious when purchasing used vehicles as prices remain elevated and complaints about sales practices continue to rise.
Officials said higher prices and limited inventory are shaping the auto market in 2026. Data from Kelley Blue Book shows the average new vehicle price in February increased 3.4% compared to a year earlier. While some automakers have absorbed tariff-related costs, consumer choices have also contributed to higher prices.
At the same time, used car prices have declined slightly, leading more buyers to consider pre-owned vehicles as a cost-saving option…