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Black Book: Used Values Hit 3-Month Skid

Analysts say a late start to the spring selling season could be to blame for a third consecutive monthly decline in Black Book’s Used Vehicle Retention Index.

March 6, 2019
Black Book: Used Values Hit 3-Month Skid

Residual values for pre-owned subcompacts such as the 2016 Fiat 500L declined by an average of 2.29% in February, according to Black Book’s latest report.

Photo courtesy Fiat Chrysler Automobiles

1 min to read


LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. — Used-vehicle valuation and forecasting provider Black Book (div. Hearst) released its Used Vehicle Retention Index for February. The index fell 0.8% to 114.5, a third straight monthly decline that completes a full percentage point loss over the last 12 months.

Only the full-size van segment (up 0.56%) showed improved retention in February, analysts said. Luxury segments showed the largest declines, led by midsize luxury SUVs and CUVs (-2.13%). Residual values for subcompact cars (-2.29%) fared worst of all.

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“The start of the spring selling season appears to be late this year, perhaps from slower and smaller tax refunds this year, as well as the harsher-than-normal winter weather patterns across much of the country, said Anil Goyal, executive vice president of operations for Black Book. “March should be a very telling month not only for spring, as it may likely set the tone for the remainder of the year.”  

To read Black Book’s complete February report, click here.

Topics:Showroom

Originally posted on Auto Dealer Today

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