Carmel, Ind. — Wholesale used-vehicle prices fell sequentially and on a year-over-year basis in February, indicating that wholesale prices could resume the general softening pattern that began around mid-2012, and was interrupted by Superstorm Sandy, according to ADESA Analytical Services’ monthly analysis.

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 1.0 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 and lease consignors were flat on year-over-year basis.

Prices fell 4.5 percent on year-over-year basis for dealer consignors and were down on a month-over-month basis for all three seller groups.

Based on data from CNW Research, retail used-vehicle sales in February were up 11.6 percent on a year-over-year for franchised dealers and 4.4 percent for independent dealers. Similarly, February sales of certified used vehicles were up 5.1 percent vs. the year-ago period, according to Autodata Corp.