Tariffs expected to drive up cost of auto repairs, tips to avoid them
Tariffs expected to drive up cost of auto repairs
Economists expect President Donald Trump's tariffs to drive up the cost of buying both new and used cars, as well as auto repairs.
HOUSTON - President Trump's 25% tariffs on imported cars is set to take effect Thursday, April 3, and on imported auto parts on May 3.
How will tariffs impact car prices and repairs?
Big picture view:
Economists expect these tariffs to drive up the cost of buying both new and used cars, as well as auto repairs.
More than half of all auto parts that make up cars, or are used to repair cars, come from other countries.
That includes engines, transmissions, powertrain parts, and electrical components among others that will be impacted by the tariff.
Auto mechanics are expected to be in high demand, as drivers look to keep their cars longer rather than pay more for a new one.
But some say parts may be harder to come by.
"Car parts are not going to be available. Why? Because most dealerships are going to say, alright, I usually carry $1 million in inventory, but I don’t know what’s going to sell. I don’t know what the consumer is going to want to buy. So I’m going to go to $250,000 only and hold off. And when they come in, and I don’t have it, I say sorry," said Shahe Koulloukian of MAZVO Auto Center.
How tariffs could impact vehicle prices, repairs
President Trump's 25% tariffs on imported cars is set to take effect Thursday, April 3, and on imported auto parts on May 3.
Tips for keeping your vehicle running longer
What you can do:
AAA is encouraging drivers to keep their vehicles in good repair during its April Car Care Month. It can help reduce the need for more expensive repairs.
In 2024, AAA reported receiving more than 27 million emergency roadside service calls across the country.
Here are some tips from AAA to help keep your vehicle in good working order:
- Keep up with oil changes
- Ask your mechanic to do a vehicle inspection to see if any repairs need to be made. Some will perform this service for free if you pay for other services or repairs.
- Check tire pressure
- Check tire condition
- And keep all fluids topped off.
Dig deeper:
AAA has an auto repair cost estimator, which you don't have to have a membership to use.
AAA also offers a list of its approved auto repair shops, where members can receive a 10% discount.
The Source: The information in this article comes from automotive experts. Car maintenance tips come from AAA.