Used Car Prices in Surrey Are Climbing in 2026—And So Is Your Tax Bill

If you have been shopping for a used car along King George Boulevard or browsing private listings in Newton and Guildford, you have likely noticed a trend: prices are ticking up.

A recent January 2026 report from major retailers indicates that used vehicle prices in British Columbia are rising, driven by a shift toward newer, larger SUVs and premium vehicles. While this might be good news for sellers, it creates a hidden problem for buyers: Higher prices mean higher Provincial Sales Tax (PST).

The Surrey Commuter Tax Trap

Surrey is a commuter city. Whether you are driving into Vancouver via the Port Mann Bridge or heading south to White Rock, you need a reliable vehicle. But with the sub-0,000 market remaining supply-tight, many buyers are forced to spend more than they planned.

Here is the kicker: ICBC calculates PST based on the greater of the sale price or the average wholesale value (Black Book). If you buy a car for 5,000 but ICBC says it is worth 8,000 because of "market trends," you pay tax on the higher amount.

How to Protect Your Wallet

If you are buying a used vehicle in Surrey—especially a high-mileage commuter car or an older SUV that ICBC values too highly—you have the right to an appraisal. A professional appraisal can determine the true market value of your specific vehicle, accounting for its condition, rather than a generic book value.

Don't let rising market trends inflate your tax bill. If ICBC's value seems wrong, get an appraisal before you register.