Average wholesale used-vehicle prices fell significantly in May relative to April, though they remained modestly higher than year-ago levels, according to ADESA Analytical Services’ monthly analysis of Wholesale Used Vehicle Prices by Vehicle Model Class.  Besides seasonal factors, supply growth put downward pressure on prices.

"Used-vehicle retail sales were a mixed bag in May, as franchised dealers enjoyed an uptick in sales, especially of CPO units, while independent dealers saw year-over-year declines," according to Tom Kontos, EVP & chief economist for ADESA Analytical Services. 

Wholesale used vehicle prices in May averaged $10,440 – down 2.5-percent compared to April, but up 1.1percent  relative to May 2014.  Only full-size vans, Mini SUVs, and full-size SUVs had month-over-month increases in average prices.

Average wholesale prices for used vehicles remarketed by manufacturers were down 0.2% month-over-month and down 6.5 percent year-over-year. Prices for fleet/lease consignors were down 3 percent sequentially and down 3 percent annually.  Dealer consignors saw a 2.6-percent price decrease vs. April, but enjoyed a 1.8-percent increase relative to May 2014.

A new data series from NADA showed a 3.6-percent year-over-year increase in used vehicle sales by franchised dealers, but a 1.6-percent decrease for independent dealers.  CPO sales set new highs in May, growing 8.3 percent month-over-month and 12.2 percent year-over-year, according to figures from Autodata.

WHOLESALE USED-VEHICLE PRICE TRENDS