Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Ahead of President Donald Trump's auto tariffs that are supposed to kick in Thursday, dealerships are beginning to see waves of customers.
On Wednesday, also dubbed "Liberation Day," Trump is expected to roll out a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts in order to strengthen the U.S. auto-industry.
"Income tax season came and went, and now it seems like it's income tax season all over again. People are coming in, and we're busier now than we have been in the longest time. Obviously, post COVID, we were busy, then it really slacked off, but now we are really getting busy, and people are saying they're afraid of the tariffs. They don't want to buy a new car because it's going to be $70,000 or more to buy a new car. They want to buy something used that's still under factory warranty and not have to pay this 25% tariff." stated Owner of Riverfront Auto and Sales Martin Pecoraro Sr.
Pecoraro says the tariffs are going to impact more than just the cost of new cars.
"The parts are going to be more cost on the used cars, and the supply and demand. People don't buy new, they buy used. The car market, I think, is going to have a trickle down effect and start rising the prices of used cars," explained Pecoraro.
Pecoraro urges anyone still in the market for a new or used vehicle to seriously consider expediting their purchase.
"Don't hesitate. These tariffs are real. They're going to happen. When they kick in, whether it's for the parts or the new car stores, it's going to cost more money. If you could buy it, or you're thinking about buying a car, I would suggest not to wait," stated Pecoraro.
