Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers
This dataset tracks retail sales: used car dealers over time.
Latest Value
12025.00
Year-over-Year Change
4.18%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers trend measures monthly sales at establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of used passenger cars and light trucks. This metric provides insight into consumer demand and confidence in the used vehicle market.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers trend represents the total dollar value of retail sales by establishments focused on the resale of used passenger vehicles and light trucks. This data point is a key economic indicator for monitoring the health of the auto industry and consumer spending patterns.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Historical Context
Economists and policymakers closely track this metric to gauge consumer behavior and the broader state of the economy.
Key Facts
- Used car sales make up around 40% of total U.S. auto sales.
- Retail sales at used car dealers account for over $100 billion annually.
- The used car market is an important leading indicator of consumer confidence.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers trend measures the total monthly sales revenue for establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of used passenger vehicles and light trucks.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This metric provides valuable insight into consumer demand, spending patterns, and confidence in the auto industry, which is a key sector of the broader economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Economists and policymakers closely monitor this indicator to assess the health of consumer spending and the overall economy, which can inform policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers data is released monthly with a typical 2-week delay, and may be subject to revisions as additional information becomes available.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Used Car Dealers (MRTSSM44112USN), retrieved from FRED.