On the Dash:
- November used-vehicle retail sales reached 1.39 million, up 1.9% year over year.
- Certified pre-owned sales fell 1.8% year over year but outperformed new-vehicle sales.
- Days’ supply held steady at 50, indicating balanced inventory with strong retail demand.
Used-vehicle retail sales increased in November, fueled by steady demand and improving affordability, according to Cox Automotive’s vAuto Live Market View. Dealers, both franchised and independent, sold an estimated 1.39 million used vehicles, up 1.9% from a year earlier and 2.3% from October. Days’ supply remained at 50, two days higher than last year, reflecting a stable but growing inventory.
Certified pre-owned vehicles saw a slight decline, with November sales estimated at 205,825 units, down 1.8% year over year and 1.5% from October. Despite a modest decline, CPO sales outpaced the broader new-vehicle market, which fell 4.3% year over year. Year-to-date, CPO sales remain 2.3% higher than the same period last year.
The overall used-vehicle market continues to benefit from improving credit conditions, modestly easing prices, and a value proposition that appeals to price-conscious buyers. As inventory expands, dealers are balancing supply with strong retail demand, particularly for vehicles under $25,000.
As the market heads into December, the combination of rising used-vehicle inventory and sustained retail demand suggests dealers may enter the holiday season well-positioned to meet consumer needs. CPO vehicles, while slightly softer in November, remain a critical segment for maintaining profitability and offering buyers nearly-new alternatives to new vehicles.
