What Tariffs Could Mean for Your Car Repairs: Higher Costs, Longer Waits & What You Can Do

When you think about tariffs, you probably picture international trade disputes or the price of goods at the store—not necessarily your car repairs. However, tariffs on imported auto parts can directly impact the cost, availability, and timeline of fixing your car. Whether you're dealing with routine maintenance or an unexpected breakdown, here’s what you need to know about how tariffs could affect your wallet and what you can do to stay ahead of the game.

What Are Tariffs, and How Do They Affect Auto Parts?

A tariff is essentially a tax imposed on imported goods. When the U.S. government places tariffs on foreign-made auto parts, suppliers and manufacturers either absorb the extra cost or pass it down to businesses and consumers. Since many car parts—especially those for newer vehicles—are manufactured overseas, tariffs can increase repair costs, cause part shortages, and extend repair timelines for everyday drivers.

For example, parts like brake pads, alternators, suspension components, and even electronic sensors are often sourced from countries like China, Mexico, Japan, and Germany. If tariffs are imposed on these imports, repair shops may face higher costs, longer shipping times, and limited availability, all of which can affect your next service appointment.

How Tariffs Could Impact Your Next Repair Bill

• Higher Costs for Parts
• If tariffs increase the cost of importing auto parts, those expenses are likely to be passed on to auto repair shops, which means higher prices for customers.
• Repairs that involve OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts could see the biggest price hikes, as many are manufactured overseas.
• Longer Wait Times for Parts
• Tariffs can disrupt supply chains, leading to delays in part shipments. This could mean longer waits for repairs, especially for specialty components.
• If a critical part isn’t readily available, your car might be stuck in the shop for days or even weeks longer than expected.
• Potential Shift to Aftermarket Parts
• To combat rising costs and availability, some repair shops might rely more on aftermarket or remanufactured parts instead of OEM parts.
• Increase in Used & New Car Prices
• If new car parts become expensive and hard to find, more people may hold onto their vehicles longer, leading to higher demand for used cars and used parts.
• This could mean higher resale values but also higher costs if you need a used part for your repair.

How You Can Prepare for Potential Tariff-Related Auto Repair Issues

• Stay on Top of Preventative Maintenance
  Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections can help prevent costly breakdowns that require hard-to-find parts. If your car is well-maintained, you're less likely to need an urgent repair that could be affected by tariffs.
• Plan Ahead for Major Repairs
  If your vehicle is aging or you suspect you’ll need a big repair soon (like brakes, suspension, or transmission work), consider getting it done sooner rather than later to avoid potential price increases.
• Ask About Part Options
  If your repair shop tells you a part is on backorder or has increased in price, ask about aftermarket or remanufactured alternatives. A reputable shop will let you know if an alternative is a good fit for your car.
• Work with a Trusted Auto Repair Shop
  Choose a reputable, locally owned repair shop that prioritizes customer service and transparency. At Pellman’s Automotive, we help customers navigate changing industry challenges, find the best parts for their budget, and provide expert repairs you can trust.

Be Proactive & Stay Informed

Tariffs on auto parts may seem like a distant policy issue, but they have real-world consequences for car owners. Higher repair costs, longer wait times, and potential parts shortages could make vehicle maintenance more challenging. By staying proactive with maintenance, working with a trusted repair shop, and planning ahead for major repairs, you can keep your car running smoothly—no matter what trade policies bring.

At Pellman’s Automotive, we’re committed to keeping you informed and your car in top shape. Have questions about a repair or need advice? Give us a call or schedule an appointment today!