As a further sign that the economy is beginning to recover, Detroit’s Big Three automakers: GM, Chrysler, and Ford, all posted big gains in the month of May over the same time last year. With consumer confidence returning and Americans making car purchases that they may have held off on in the wake of the economic downturn, consumers should remember that they can purchase many of these cars for considerably less at used car dealerships or auctions.

Ford gained the most, with a 20 percent increase over previous years’ totals. Ford is in good shape, as the only one of the Big Three not to accept federal bailout money and thus not have to pay it off, according to the Washington Post

GM sales increased 16.6 percent, and Chrysler sold 100,000 vehicles for only the second time in two years.

Among Japanese automakers, Nissan jumped 24.1 percent while Toyota sales slowed amid recall problems.

Although the industry itself may still be recovering, the country is not yet out of the woods. Consumers who need to save money can look at these brands’ ample offerings on the used car market.