From the standpoint of showroom traffic, executives and industry sales analysts saw the election as a distraction that was good to put behind them.

He added that while showroom traffic was strong, many consumers said they were just looking and planned to buy in the spring.

"The most important thing to do with a dealership is to increase showroom traffic," he said.

While showroom traffic was down, a larger percentage of the people kicking tires actually bought, he said.

"We went out with a clear message and it created good showroom traffic."

Several dealers said showroom traffic had fallen 20 to 30 percent.

"So I can understand why showroom traffic may be slow."

Some dealers said showroom traffic had dropped off in recent weeks, most likely because consumers sensed new discounts were coming.

Several dealers reported that showroom traffic had been uneven in recent weeks.

But Chrysler's results show that hot trucks and price cuts on cars can create showroom traffic.