Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin Episode: Insider Tips For Buying a Car in this Market with The Car Dealership Guy
Release Date: August 4, 2025

In this insightful episode of Money Rehab, host Nicole Lapin welcomes Yossi Levy, widely known as "The Car Dealership Guy," to delve deep into the current automotive market. With extensive experience in the car business, Yossi provides listeners with valuable strategies and insider knowledge essential for navigating today’s challenging car-buying landscape.

1. Market Overview Post-Liberation Day Tariffs

The conversation begins with an analysis of how the recent Liberation Day tariffs have impacted the new car market. Yossi explains the fluctuating demand and supply dynamics, highlighting a stable yet healthy market environment as of late July 2025.

Yossi Levy [04:17]: "As it stands, we're here recording late July, about to be August. The market, I would call it stable and pretty healthy."

He notes that while initial tariff-induced sales spikes in April gave way to slower conversions in subsequent months, the overall market remains resilient with transaction prices gradually normalizing.

2. Effects on New and Used Car Markets

Yossi elaborates on the stabilization of vehicle prices, emphasizing that transaction prices now closely align with consumer earnings, making car purchases more attainable.

Yossi Levy [06:11]: "Transaction prices have come down somewhat and we're hovering in this state right now, which is pretty healthy."

He also touches upon the used car market, pointing out that high-quality used vehicles, especially from Japanese and Korean brands like Toyota and Honda, continue to hold their value remarkably well.

3. Leasing Trends and Affordability

Leasing has emerged as a predominant choice for consumers seeking affordable monthly payments. Yossi discusses how leasing has become a lifeline for the automotive industry amid soaring vehicle prices.

Yossi Levy [07:32]: "Leasing is the most affordable option, obviously, because you don't actually own the vehicle."

He highlights that leasing allows consumers to manage costs effectively without the burden of high upfront payments, contributing significantly to sustained sales volumes.

4. Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Tax Incentives

The discussion then shifts to the electric vehicle (EV) market, where Yossi explains the crucial role of government subsidies in driving EV sales. He anticipates potential fluctuations in the market as tax credits expire in late 2025.

Yossi Levy [11:13]: "Electric vehicles have been on a tear primarily due to these tax credits. But we're going to see in Q4 of this year exactly how it's going to play out once they're removed."

Yossi advises consumers to capitalize on existing tax credits when purchasing EVs, as these incentives make electric cars more affordable and appealing.

5. Auto Loan Deductions and New Tax Breaks

Yossi introduces listeners to the newly enacted auto loan deduction, detailing its benefits and limitations. This deduction allows consumers to offset interest payments on auto loans under certain conditions.

Yossi Levy [13:00]: "If you purchase a vehicle that has some specifications of manufactured in the US or it meets certain criteria, that you will get deduction on your interest rate... has about a $10,000 limit and it also has an income limit for someone to qualify for it."

He cautions that while the deduction offers some relief, its overall impact on car affordability is modest.

6. Top Brands Offering Best Value

Focusing on brand recommendations, Yossi emphasizes the reliability and resale value of Japanese and Korean manufacturers. Vehicles from Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Kia stand out for their longevity and customer satisfaction.

Yossi Levy [17:33]: "Historically, the highest value has been sort of the Japanese and Korean brands... Toyota and Honda are just known for their longevity and great value."

He advises consumers to consider these brands when seeking both new and used cars to ensure a wise investment.

7. Optimal Timing for Car Purchases

Timing plays a crucial role in securing the best deals. Yossi recommends targeting the end of quarters and model year changeovers to take advantage of dealerships' incentives and discounts.

Yossi Levy [22:36]: "Think about end of Q3 and just see what happens. See what deals you're offered."

He explains that dealers are more likely to offer significant discounts as they strive to meet sales targets and clear out older inventory.

8. Effective Negotiation Strategies

Yossi shares expert tips on negotiating with dealerships. He advises making realistic offers based on thorough research and leveraging trade-ins to gain additional negotiating power.

Yossi Levy [28:09]: "You have to be realistic... come a little bit lower where you're signaling serious interest."

He emphasizes the importance of understanding the dealership's perspective and utilizing every aspect of the deal, including financing and trade-ins, to secure a favorable outcome.

9. Navigating Tax Deductions and Avoiding Pitfalls

Addressing popular but often misunderstood tax deductions, Yossi warns against making purchases solely for tax benefits. He highlights the importance of genuine need and careful financial consideration.

Yossi Levy [31:53]: "Don't let the tail wag the dog. Don't just buy."

He advises consumers to ensure that any tax deduction is a secondary benefit rather than the primary motivation for purchasing a specific vehicle.

10. Final Tips for Car Shoppers

Concluding the episode, Yossi offers final advice to empower car buyers. He encourages leveraging the multitude of available resources, conducting comprehensive research, and choosing reputable dealerships that prioritize transparency and customer satisfaction.

Yossi Levy [33:45]: "There's zero excuse for someone to buy from like a bad dealer nowadays."

He underscores the transformative impact of the internet on car shopping, advocating for informed and strategic decision-making to achieve the best possible deals.

Notable Quotes:

• Yossi Levy [06:11]: "Transaction prices have come down somewhat and we're hovering in this state right now, which is pretty healthy."
• Yossi Levy [11:13]: "Electric vehicles have been on a tear primarily due to these tax credits."
• Yossi Levy [22:36]: "Think about end of Q3 and just see what happens. See what deals you're offered."
• Yossi Levy [28:09]: "You have to be realistic... come a little bit lower where you're signaling serious interest."
• Yossi Levy [31:53]: "Don't let the tail wag the dog. Don't just buy."
• Yossi Levy [33:45]: "There's zero excuse for someone to buy from like a bad dealer nowadays."

Conclusion

This episode of Money Rehab equips listeners with actionable insights and expert advice essential for making informed car-buying decisions in a fluctuating market. Yossi Levy’s expertise demystifies the complexities of the auto industry, empowering consumers to secure the best deals while navigating economic challenges and leveraging available incentives effectively.

Connect with Money Rehab: Need personalized financial advice? Email Nicole at moneyrehab@moneynewsnetwork.com and join the conversation on Instagram@moneynews and TikTok@moneynewsnetwork for exclusive content.