Despite poor new car sales figures in August, dealers are maintaining used car sales activity, according to Manheim Retail Services managing director John Simpson.

Total showroom, online and telephone traffic were up in August compared with the previous three months.

However, traffic was marginally down in the large and medium family segments. Interest was highest in the medium family and small hatchback segments.

Generally, sales were up in August compared with the previous three months, excluding the large family segment which fell back slightly.

Mike Pilkington, managing director of Manheim Auctions & Remarketing, said that although retail stock prices were down in August compared with the previous three months, the fall of £17 was considerably less than in recent months, with age and mileage also falling slightly.

While first time conversion rates in the auction halls fell by 9% across the range, and specifically by 15% for large family cars, this is explained partly by the traditionally lower conversion rates in August.

Dealer part-exchange values held up well with a drop of just £79, although conversion rates dropped 5%.

• See full details of the five main vehicle segments in 19 September 2008 issue of AM. To subscribe to AM magazine click here or call 01733 468659.