WHOLESALE USED CAR PRICES DECLINE

Wholesale used vehicle prices fell both on a month-over-month and on a year-over-year basis in February. According to ADESA Analytical Services' monthly analysis of Wholesale Used Vehicle Prices by Vehicle Model Class, wholesale used vehicle prices in February averaged $9,752 - down 2.8 percent compared to January and 1.2 percent relative to February 2012. The only segment that showed a month-over-month average price increase in February was mini SUVs, which showed a 1.9 percent rise. Prices for used vehicles remarketed by manufacturers were up 1 percent year-over-year, tapering considerably from last month's 7.7 percent year-over-year increase. Despite this tapering, off-rental program units are continuing to show price strength. Prices for fleet-lease consignors were flat year-over-year. Prices fell 4.5 percent year-over-year for dealer consignors. Prices were down on a month-over-mon