used car index

A used car index is basically the market’s mood ring, tracking how prices shift as stock and demand play tug-of-war.

In Australia, these indices (think wholesale auction data blended with retail listings) spiked during 2020–22 when new-car supply went walkabout, then cooled through 2023–24 as ships finally turned up. Expect values to still sit above pre‑COVID norms, but the froth has eased—bargain hunters can at least breathe again. It’s a trend guide, not gospel, so individual models can buck the chart for all sorts of reasons. Want a reality check? Browse real listings on places like Tradingpost to see what sellers are actually asking this week.