Black Book Reports Continued Strength In Used-Car Market Despite Headwinds
By CU Today Staff —
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga.—Used vehicle values continued to strengthen in May, with the Black Book Used Vehicle Retention Index rising 0.6% from April as an unusually strong spring selling season extended well beyond historical norms.
Black Book reported its seasonally adjusted Used Vehicle Retention Index increased to 147.4 in May from 146.6 in April. Despite the monthly gain, the index remained 1.3% below its May 2025 level of 149.4.
According to Black Book, the spring used-vehicle market outperformed expectations this year, lasting approximately 15 weeks compared to the six-week average seen before the pandemic. The extended period of demand helped support wholesale vehicle values through much of May.
“The sustained strength in demand contributed to a modest increase in Black Book’s Used Vehicle Retention Index in May, as seasonal market momentum carried further into the month than is typical,” said Laura Wehunt, vice president of data and analytics at Black Book.
She added that wholesale conversion rates remained strong despite ongoing industry challenges, although the market began showing signs of normalization late in the month.
Looking ahead, Black Book said depreciation levels are expected to increase as the industry moves beyond the spring selling season. The company noted that consumer confidence, fuel prices and geopolitical uncertainty will remain key factors influencing used-vehicle demand in the months ahead.
Originally reported by CU Today.