February 2026 Market Report - Used‑Vehicle Market Remains Stable Early in the Year

February 2026 Market Report - Used‑Vehicle Market Remains Stable Early in the Year
 

• Retail transaction prices declined modestly month‑over‑month in February (‑1.3%, ‑$386), consistent with typical early‑year seasonal patterns following the year‑end sales push, while year‑over‑year pricing remained essentially flat (+$13), reinforcing stability rather than demand weakness.
• Wholesale prices firmed slightly over the same period (+0.7%, +$112) and remain higher year‑over‑year (+3.4%, +$521), supporting continued discipline in upstream pricing conditions.
• Used gross and F&I profit remain within a consistent post‑pandemic range, reflecting normalized profitability, with month‑to‑month movement representing normal variability rather than a directional shift.
• Inventory flow remains measured, reflecting higher used‑vehicle price points and ongoing affordability pressures, though conditions are beginning to stabilize early in the year.
• Used retail sales remain very solid, indicating continued buyer participation despite affordability pressures, with volume trends consistent with typical early‑year patterns as activity begins to seasonally lift into the spring selling period.
• Wholesale sales activity declined modestly versus January (‑2.2%), aligned with more selective buying at auction, while year‑over‑year wholesale volume remains slightly lower, consistent with typical early‑year behavior.