With used car prices rising, here is the hardest type of car to find

DEDHAM, Mass. — After a relatively slow December, Autobahn USA Dedham salesman Joe Moussali said he’s having a hard time keeping used cars on the lot.

“The market went through the roof again [in January] and it just keeps going up,” Moussali said. “That’s what’s driving the prices. There’s very little supply, there’s still a strong demand.”

Wholesale used-vehicle prices increased 4.3 percent in February, the largest January to February increase since 2009, according to the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index.

CoPilot found the average used car price increased six straight weeks and now sits around $40,000, about $1,000 more than a month ago.

Brian Moody with Kelley Blue Book said the demand for used cars is outpacing supply.

“There’s just not that much of a supply,” Moody said. “We’re seeing a reduction in inventory when it comes to used cars. It’s down about 21 percent compared to a year ago.”

Moody said if you’re looking to spend $10,000 or less on a used car, you may have a tough time.

“The more expensive the used car, the more plentiful they are. The less expensive used car, the fewer there are,” Moody said. “If you can pay over $35,000 for a used car, then you’re in great shape. But if you’re looking for one that is below $10,000 or $15,000 like a lot of us are, there may not be as many to pick from.”

Other tips from Moody:

BE SURE YOU LOOK FOR A CAR THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET AND YOUR NEEDS

“Don’t just go buying an SUV because you like SUVs. Those types of popular vehicles, minivans, full-size SUVs and pick-up trucks, they’re the most expensive,” Moody said.

IF YOU REALLY WANT A BARGAIN, LOOK FOR A HATCHBACK, SEDAN OR A USED HYBRID

“A Nissan Altima or a Honda Accord is a good car, but may be less expensive with more price flexibility when compared to a full-size SUV that everybody wants,” he said.

GO TO A PLACE WITH A LARGE INVENTORY

“A place that has a large inventory is going to help you find a car that fits your budget. A place with a small inventory, they have what they have. It doesn’t mean you can’t get a good deal there, but if you look for a place that has the most selection you’re going to be to find something eventually that fits your budget,” Moody said.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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