CarMax’s Bad Q3 Results Drag Down Industry
Used-car retailer grapples with waning demand in face of economic challenges.

Rising inflation and interest rates are eating into consumer demand and making it hard for used-car retailers to offload vehicles at or above the rates they bought them for.
IMAGE: Getty Images/acilo
CarMax joined Carvana in taking a financial hit over the shifting used-car market as it reported a massive third-quarter profit fall.
The Virginia-based used-car retailer’s sales and earnings missed Wall Street's conservative expectations, its profit dropping 86% year-over-year.
CarMax shares fell up to 12%, pulling down the automotive industry with it, including carmakers General Motors and Ford.
The used-car market has recently started to suffer after a boon in sales in the pandemic era due to limited new-car inventories resulting from supply-chain shortages that sent sticker prices soaring. Used-car prices themselves rose to the point that some models’ value appreciated and they sold for more than their MSRP when new.
Now rising inflation and interest rates are eating into consumer demand and making it hard for used-car retailers to offload vehicles at or above the rates they bought them for.
CarMax President and CEO Bill Nash said in a press release on its third-quarter results that, “In response to the ongoing pressures across the used car industry, we have taken deliberate steps to support our business for both the near-term and the long-term. We are managing our business prudently, and prioritizing initiatives that reduce costs, unlock operating efficiencies, profitably grow market share and create better experiences for our associates and customers.”
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
More Industry

The Cheapest Hybrids to Fuel
The powertrain is increasing in popularity, in no small part due to its fuel economy. A new report lists the most efficient hybrids on the market.
Read More →
Hybrids and SUVs Gaining Ground
The most recent Kelley Blue Book Brand Watch found that only two nonluxury brands increased in shopper consideration, buoyed by their hybrid and SUV offerings.
Read More →
Dealership Profits Decline
While new and used retail sales stagnated, dealerships have been particularly supported by fixed operations and finance-and-insurance profits, according to a new report.
Read More →
New Mexico Stores Change Hands
Three dealerships owned by three brothers are renamed for a new partnership bridging the founders’ family and a new auto retail leader.
Read More →
International Automakers Overpower Domestic Output
As the current U.S. administration pushes for domestic automotive production, a new report sheds light on the prevalence of international automakers here.
Read More →
World EV Adoption Set to Grow
A new report says the segment, despite recent setbacks in some regions, is poised for acceleration as many countries look to reduce pollution.
Read More →
Black Book: Weekly Market Update
Wholesale automotive auction business stayed steady last week as bidders encountered lower prices, analysts observed.
Read More →
Pricing Transparency Drives Purchase Consideration
An annual study by JD Power found that clear pricing matters to consumers on automaker websites, so much so that it increases their purchase consideration.
Read More →
Black Book: Weekly Market Update
Used-vehicle market depreciation was the prevailing story in the wholesale market last week.
Read More →
Smaller Is Looking Better
A growing number of Americans in the market for a new vehicle are opting for more affordable options, not waiting for market stability to bite the bullet.
Read More →