Archive for the ‘resale value’ Category

Among mainstream brands, consumers still rate Honda and Toyota highest in quality—whether that is or isn't the case on actual quality surveys. But Ford is quickly gaining ground. That's according to the latest Perceived Quality Study (PQS), from residual values expert Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG).

Perceived quality sometimes fails to mirror actual quality. Here, there's no better example than Volkswagen, which ALG says has maintained a strong perceived level of quality even though the brand has placed low in actual metrics for quality.

"Volkswagen’s emotionally appealing designs have helped strengthen perceptions of its overall brand and...

What causes a particular vehicle to depreciate more than another of the same make, model, and year?

According to ordinary car shoppers, vehicle mileage is seen as the top reason for depreciation, ranking above accident damage, maintenance records, and other issues such as flood damage or title issues.

The surprising results come from a quick survey of 1,000 U.S. adults, conducted in June by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of the mega-dealer CarMax.

The most interesting tidbit: Women were more likely to recognize the impact that failure to properly maintain a vehicle can have on its value.

In a release, the company suggests that consumers...