How the Used Car Market Is Evolving in 2025
NaTasha Brand • August 4, 2025
(And Why You Should Care)
The used car market isn’t what it used to be—literally. Gone are the days when buying pre-owned meant settling for a clunker that lost half its value the second you drove it off the lot. In 2025, used cars are holding their value like never before, and if you're shopping in San Angelo, Texas, understanding these trends could save you thousands.
Why Are Used Cars Holding Their Value Longer?
Several factors are keeping used car prices strong:
• New Car Shortages Lingering – Supply chain issues from the pandemic era aren’t entirely resolved, making new cars harder to get (and pricier). That means more buyers are turning to used vehicles, keeping demand high.
• Better Build Quality – Modern cars are built to last longer, with improved engines, transmissions, and rust-proofing. A well-maintained 5-year-old car today might run like new for another decade.
• EV & Hybrid Resale Uncertainty – While electric vehicles are gaining traction, many buyers are still wary of battery degradation, making reliable gas-powered used cars more desirable.
The #1 Rule of Used Car Shopping: Get a Second Opinion
Buying used? Great! But don’t skip the pre-purchase inspection (PPI). That "clean" Carfax report and smooth test drive might hide lurking issues—bad transmission fluid, hidden frame damage, or a turbocharger on its last legs.
At Ric Henry’s Auto Service in San Angelo, we’ve seen it all. Our expert technicians use the same tools and equipment as dealerships, giving you an honest, thorough evaluation before you commit. Plus, with our 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, you can drive off with confidence—not regrets.
What Does This Mean for San Angelo Buyers?
• Shop smart. A $15,000 used car today might still be worth $12,000 in three years if you maintain it well.
• Avoid "as-is" nightmares. A PPI from Ric Henry’s could reveal a $4,000 repair hiding behind a "great deal."
• Maintenance pays off. Keeping up with fluid changes, brakes, and belts preserves resale value.
The used car market isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. But remember: a cheap car isn’t a deal if it turns into someone else’s problem. Get it checked, keep it maintained, and drive happy.
"Don’t buy a rodeo horse without checking its hooves first."
When it comes to hauling heavy loads in San Angelo, you need a truck that doesn’t just talk the talk—it needs to tow the tow. Whether you’re pulling a horse trailer out to Christoval, hauling equipment for a ranch, or just making sure your bass boat gets to O.H. Ivie Lake without drama, the right truck makes all the difference. We’ve lined up the five best heavy-duty contenders for 2025, compared their brawn, brains, and Texas-sized capabilities. And since even the toughest trucks need expert care, Ric Henry’s Auto Service is here to keep them running at peak performance with dealership-level tools, expert techs, and a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all services. 2025 Ford F-350 Super Duty – The King of Consistency Ford’s Super Duty line remains a towing titan, with the 2025 F-350 offering up to 37,000 lbs of towing capacity (when properly equipped). The high-output Power Stroke diesel is a beast, and Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist makes hitching a breeze—perfect for those tight spots at the San Angelo Stock Show. Why San Angelo Will Love It: Reliable, tech-savvy, and built for West Texas ranchers who need no-nonsense power. 2025 Ram 3500 HD – The Luxurious Workhorse Ram doesn’t just build trucks; they build rolling mansions with Hemi hearts. The 2025 3500 HD boasts a 1,075 lb-ft torque rating from its Cummins turbo diesel and can tow up to 37,090 lbs. Plus, its plush interior means you won’t feel like you’ve been wrestling cattle after a long haul. Why San Angelo Will Love It: Combines comfort with raw power—ideal for those long hauls to Midland or Abilene. 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD – The Silent Brute Chevy’s Duramax diesel delivers 910 lb-ft of torque, and the Max Tow Package pushes capacity to 36,000 lbs. The Silverado’s refined ride and updated infotainment make it a great choice for those who want strength without sacrificing daily drivability. Why San Angelo Will Love It: Smooth, strong, and packed with tech—great for both worksites and weekend getaways. 2025 GMC Sierra 3500 HD – The Premium Puller Think of the Sierra as the Silverado’s fancier cousin. With similar specs but more upscale trims (Denali, anyone?), it’s perfect for the San Angelo driver who wants both capability and curb appeal. Why San Angelo Will Love It: Because sometimes you need to arrive at the jobsite looking like you own it. 2025 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro – The Underdog with Bite Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid powertrain won’t out-tow the diesels, but its 11,000+ lb towing capacity and legendary reliability make it a great option for those who want a tough truck without going full heavy-duty. Why San Angelo Will Love It: For those who want Toyota’s bulletproof rep in a powerful, more manageable package. Which Truck Reigns Supreme? If raw towing power is your game, the Ford F-350 or Ram 3500 take the crown. Want luxury with muscle? The GMC Sierra shines. Need dependability above all? The Chevy Silverado or Toyota Tundra won’t let you down. And remember—no matter which beast you choose, Ric Henry’s Auto Service has your back with top-tier repairs, maintenance, and a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty to keep you hauling without hassle.
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