Used-Vehicle Sales Fall
April dip from unusual spring surge is still well above last year, Cox says.
Days' supply was up by two days as April came to a close.
Pexels/Engin Akyurt
Used-vehicle sales waned in April after jumping on the combination spring “bounce” and trade tariff-induced surge.
The 1.6 million units in U.S. retail sales by franchised and independent auto dealers made for a 4% month-over-month dip, but that was still up year-over-year by a significant 12%, Cox Automotive said.
The certified preowned segment was nearly a mirror image of overall used sales volume. It fell 6% month-over-month to more than 232,000, but that was up 11% year-over-year, Cox data show. Year-to-date sales are up about 4% over the same period last year.
Used-vehicle days’ supply stood at 43 at month’s end, up two days from the start of the month.
Despite the April volume decline, used sales are still well above recent years’ deliveries, said Cox Manager of Economic and Industry Insights Scott Vanner.
More Showroom
California Hybrids Reach State Record
The Golden State still leads the country in electric-vehicle registrations, but much like the rest of the U.S. its hybrid market share is up while full electrics stabilize after a dramatic first-quarter dip.
Read More →
My Mercedes in the U.S.
The German brand debuted its studio dealership concept for the first time in the states in Los Angeles, tapping Americans’ penchant for creative distinctions.
Read More →
Used Sales Hit Summer Drag
The vacation season, combined with high prices, has dented deliveries and added to inventories, though supply is still slim enough to keep listings elevated.
Read More →
California Launches EV Rebate Program
Participating automakers are matching the state's $13.5 million investment in new electric-vehicle rebates scheduled to take effect later this summer.
Read More →
OEM Poll Sees Industry Evolution
Kerrigan Advisors’ survey of automakers finds that tariffs, technology, network tightening and other factors are poised to reshape auto retail.
Read More →
The Trade-In Paradox
Retailing older cars with confidence in today’s market is a matter of establishing and following a clear process that can turn greater profit for auto dealers as they aim to meet used-unit hunger.
Read More →
Focus on Vehicle Cabins
The market for interior materials will grow in coming years as automakers look to meet consumer demand while staying competitive with changeups to sourcing and included features.
Read More →
State Follows Federal Warning on Auto Ads
The Massachusetts attorney general cautioned the state’s automotive dealers to be upfront with the consuming public about their vehicle prices or risk punishment.
Read More →
European EV Market Hits Record
Seven out of the top 10 electric vehicles sold so far in 2026 in Europe are by European brands, and automakers are seeing the power train fill up their order books.
Read More →
Used EVs Outpace New
While North American electric-vehicle sales remain down year-over-year, May sales saw a 3% increase from April’s numbers as used EVs led the market.
Read More →