How To Navigate The Used Car Market With The New Tariffs

A fresh wave of tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts has sent shockwaves through the automotive industry, and for buyers, it’s already reshaping the way they shop. With a 25% tariff now in effect on imported cars and light-duty trucks and similar levies on parts expected to follow, the financial landscape for both automakers and consumers is shifting fast. 

Whether you’re planning to upgrade your vehicle or shopping for your very first ride, the message is clear: Now is the time to act.

Why These Tariffs Matter

The new tariffs are poised to increase the price of new vehicles significantly — especially those made overseas or containing foreign-made parts. Automakers may attempt to absorb some of the costs temporarily, but most of the burden will eventually land on the consumer. In many cases, we’re already seeing dealers adjusting prices to reflect these changes, particularly for models arriving from April onward.

That ripple effect extends to the used car market, too. As buyers get priced out of brand-new models, the demand for quality pre-owned vehicles is growing. And with many automakers still recovering from pandemic-era production delays, supply is tighter than ever.

The Rising Value of Used Cars

When new car prices rise, buyers inevitably shift their focus to used vehicles. As this demand increases, so do prices — and we’re starting to see that trend develop. Low-mileage, well-maintained used cars are especially hot right now, and dealers across the country are experiencing higher-than-average foot traffic.

At Monster Motors, we’ve spent years building a diverse and dependable inventory of used cars, trucks, and SUVs at our locations in Jackson, MI, and Knoxville, TN. Our team sources vehicles from a wide range of suppliers and auctions, ensuring we’re ready for moments like this—when shoppers are looking for alternatives to inflated new car pricing.

How You Can Use This to Your Advantage

While some consumers may be worried about rising prices, savvy shoppers see this as a window of opportunity. Buying now, before tariffs fully impact the used market, can help you lock in value and avoid overpaying later. Here’s how to shop smart:

• Buy Sooner Rather Than Later: As tariff effects grow, so will prices. Acting now can help you get ahead of the curve.
• Explore Financing Options: Monster Motors offers flexible financing plans to help you stay within budget, even as the market shifts.
• Take Advantage of Inventory Diversity: Because we stock a wide range of vehicles from different brands and backgrounds, you're more likely to find the right fit at the right price.

The Bigger Picture for the Auto Industry

The automotive industry is global — many vehicles, even those assembled in the U.S., rely on parts imported from Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. That means the new tariffs will affect not just imported vehicles but also many domestic models. As costs increase along the supply chain, carmakers may reduce trim offerings, limit options, or shift focus to more profitable models.

From a consumer standpoint, this means fewer choices and potentially longer wait times on custom orders or replacements. Prices won’t skyrocket overnight, but they will steadily climb — and buying a vehicle will become more expensive across the board.

Act Now Before Inventory Shrinks Further

If there’s one thing we learned from the pandemic-era shortages, it’s that inventory can disappear quickly. Between supply chain complications and high demand, many used car lots ran dry for months. While we don’t expect a full repeat of 2021, the current tariffs will create new pressure on both new and used inventories.

Now is the best time to secure a high-quality pre-owned vehicle before pricing climbs and options become limited. Monster Motors has taken proactive steps to boost our inventory, and we’re ready to help customers navigate this volatile market.

Why Choose Monster Motors?

At Monster Motors, we understand the importance of timing — and the trust customers place in us during uncertain economic moments. Our two convenient locations in Jackson, MI, and Knoxville, TN, provide access to hundreds of used vehicles that are thoroughly inspected and backed by our 1,000-mile/30-day warranty on eligible models.

We’re more than just a dealership —we’re a resource for our customers. From online pre-approvals to trade-in evaluations and personalized service, we make the entire buying experience simple, transparent, and efficient.

Take Advantage Before Prices Climb

Tariffs are already impacting the automotive market, and they’ll continue to shape vehicle pricing in the months ahead. The best move you can make is to get ahead of the trend and lock in a great deal on a used car now.

At Monster Motors, we’re committed to helping you make a smart, confident choice before the effects of these new tariffs fully take hold. Browse our inventory online or visit one of our locations today to get started.