Used-Vehicle Supply Falls, Prices Up
Cox shows September activity rebalanced the market.

Nonluxury brands at lower price levels had tighter supply, including Toyota.
IMAGE: Toyota
Used-vehicle inventory is tightening, and prices are consequently up after falling in the second quarter, Cox September data shows.
Used supply fell 8% year-over-year to 2.26 million units at month’s end, and days’ supply fell by two days to 47 and by seven days year-over-year, Cox said.
“The number of used vehicles available for purchase has remained higher than the low point seen in early April,” said Cox Senior Manager of Economic and Industry Insights Chris Frey. “However, the overall used-vehicle inventory volume is still considered to be limited and has been stuck in the 2.2-2.3 million range for the past four months.”
Inventory was tighter for the lower price segments, and Honda, Mazda and Toyota had the tightest supply among nonluxury brands, Cox said.
Frey said the United Auto Workers strike against the big three automakers in Detroit has so far had minimal effect on the market but could be impactful if it continues.
The average used-vehicle listing price rose month-over-month to $26,717, Cox said, though that’s still down 5% year-over-year. Wholesale prices also rose, by 1%; that was down about 4% year-over-year. Cox credited increasing used retail demand, which it said tightened supply and sent more dealers to wholesale.
It predicts stable prices in the fourth quarter. “We have achieved balance between buyers and sellers,” said Cox Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke.
Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today
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 →