The Problem with Value Retention
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X 4xe is an excellent SUV for daily use, capable of tackling difficult off-road terrain and providing relative fuel efficiency. However, it cannot boast value retention over time. If price stability upon resale is important to you, this model is clearly not your choice. Just last month, we wrote about a Wrangler Sport S 4xe, which initially cost $60,840 but was sold for only $32,750.
A New Case of Sharp Value Depreciation
Now another 4xe model has appeared on the Cars & Bids auction, and this one lost almost $40,000 in value after just 10,300 miles, despite being a 2024 model.
So what was the reason?
A Dubious Entry in the Carfax Report
The main problem with this Wrangler is related to a mark on the Carfax report. At the beginning of this year, an entry appeared for minor damage, which usually concerns minor cosmetic defects such as scratches or dents.
The seller claims that the minor damage entry is only about a lost key, which was covered by additional Jeep protection.
However, some commentators in the lot description disputed this, claiming that a lost key cannot be the reason for such an entry in Carfax.
Seller’s Silence and Vehicle Condition
Furthermore, the seller stopped responding to questions a few days before the auction ended, although they had previously promised to provide supporting documents regarding the lost keys.
As for the Wrangler’s condition, it looks good. The white body with blue and black accents looks neat and is unlikely to scare off potential buyers for aesthetic reasons.
Specifications and Final Price
A detailed look at the window sticker shows that this Wrangler was equipped with the Customer Preferred Package 29Y costing $8,950. This kit includes upgraded seats, a heated steering wheel, acoustic front door glass, an Alpine audio system, Nappa leather trim, and a remote start system, among other additions. Despite an initial price of $72,410, the vehicle was sold for only $33,500, meaning a loss of $38,910, or almost half of its original value.
If this isn’t a good deal, it’s hard to imagine what is. This case once again demonstrates how quickly hybrid SUVs can lose value, especially when entries appear in vehicle history reports. Even minor incidents, such as losing a key, can seriously impact the resale price, making such cars risky for those planning to sell them quickly. Furthermore, the seller’s silence regarding providing evidence only heightens buyer suspicions and further reduces trust in similar offers.