Remember, the residual value is what percentage of the sticker price a new vehicle is expected to have in three years. Predictions are based on a number of factors, including the used vehicle market, how big the incentives are for new models currently in showrooms, and of course how the brand itself is doing with new car buyers.
That last point is one that many thought would sink Chrysler when it filed for bankruptcy.
The fear was prospective buyers would avoid Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep out of fear the parent company wouldn't honor warranties, etc.
President Obama took that fear off the table when he said, "I stand with Chrysler" and pledged the Federal government would honor all warranties. Since then, Chrysler sales have not plunged as many, including me, predicted long ago when we discussed the problem of Chrysler going bankrupt.
While rebounding residual values is encouraging, it doesn't mean Chrysler is out of the woods. It still has a long ways to go to get back on track. But, for the moment, it's clear the worst looks to have passed, and Chrysler vehicles should hold their value compared to their level before bankruptcy.
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