SPOKANE, Wash. — Wendle Ford is encouraging customers to purchase new vehicles ahead of a 25% tariff on imported cars and components that takes effect Wednesday.
The dealership said in a statement that the tariff, which begins April 3, will apply to all new vehicles imported into the United States. Vehicles already in the country prior to April 2 will not be affected. According to Wendle Ford, the price of a $30,000 imported vehicle could increase by $7,500 or more under the new policy.
The dealership said that many of its vehicles are produced in Mexico and Canada, making them subject to the tariff. Even U.S.-built vehicles may see price increases, as a significant portion of components — including powertrains, electronics, transmissions, tires and safety systems — are imported.
Roughly 78% of Wendle Ford’s inventory consists of vehicles built in the United States. However, due to foreign parts content, the price of U.S.-assembled vehicles could rise by $2,500 to $7,000 once the tariff is in effect, the dealership estimated.
Vehicles imported and in stock before April 2, and domestically built vehicles in stock before May 1, will not be subject to the new tariffs, the dealership said.
While manufacturers may offer limited incentives to offset the increases, Wendle Ford warned that the measures may not be enough to fully absorb the added costs. Industry analysts have also advised consumers to consider buying sooner rather than later to avoid higher prices.
The tariffs are part of trade policies enacted under President Donald Trump’s administration.
