FX.co ★ US Used-Car Prices Fall for Second Month

The Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index, a closely watched measure of wholesale used-vehicle prices in the US, fell 0.9% month-on-month in August 2026, posting a second straight monthly decline. On an annual basis, price growth slowed to 0.4%—its weakest pace since December 2025—as resilience in EVs and compact cars was offset by ongoing price declines in pickups and SUVs.

Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jeremy Robb noted that depreciation was more pronounced in July and early August before easing toward the end of the month. Newer vehicles experienced sharper depreciation, while older and more affordable models proved more resilient. Vehicles aged nine to ten years remained roughly six percentage points above their long-term averages, underscoring sustained demand for budget-friendly used cars.

Used retail sales continued to firm through August, while retail days’ supply declined to 44 days from 46 at the end of July. This combination of stronger demand and tighter supply continued to support robust dealer purchasing activity at Manheim.