Car buyers may encounter higher prices and a limited selection of vehicles due to ongoing supply chain issues, according to industry experts. These challenges stem from tariffs and difficulties in obtaining essential materials. Recently, a shortage of aluminum disrupted production at Jeep and Ford plants, halting the manufacturing of certain Jeep SUVs and Ford trucks.

Additionally, a trade dispute between the U.S. and China has raised concerns about the availability of semiconductors, which are crucial components in many vehicles. These supply chain disruptions follow significant U.S. tariffs that have affected foreign automakers and complicated operations for domestic companies that rely on manufacturers in Canada and Mexico.

Experts warn that these factors could make it harder for consumers to find their preferred vehicles at reasonable prices. However, some car manufacturers might choose to absorb the increased costs to alleviate the financial burden on buyers. The extent of the supply disruptions remains uncertain, leaving the situation unpredictable.

Peter Morici, a professor emeritus at the University of Maryland's School of Business, stated, "You start to roll all of this together and it does get significant. My feeling is that there just have been too many disruptions for this not to affect the availability of automobiles if this goes on long enough. This question is whether it will."

Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, and Ford did not respond to requests for comments regarding the situation. In April, the U.S. implemented steep tariffs of 25% on imported vehicles, increasing costs for foreign-made cars, SUVs, minivans, cargo vans, and light trucks. Following the announcement, Ferrari indicated it would raise prices by up to 10% for some models to offset the tariffs. However, widespread price increases due to tariffs have not yet been observed.

The tariffs primarily exempt vehicles covered by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which only applies to the value of non-U.S. content. Some trade agreements with other countries, including Japan and the European Union, have resulted in lower auto tariffs. Recently, the Trump administration extended a rebate for U.S. automakers to help mitigate tariff-related costs. Despite this, major automakers have incurred hundreds of millions of dollars in expenses related to tariffs, which could compound the issues stemming from aluminum and semiconductor shortages.

Jessica Caldwell, head of insights at Edmunds, noted, "The fact that it's all coming at them is a challenge for automakers. We haven't seen a lot of impact of tariffs; we haven't seen a lot of impact of the supply chain. That doesn't mean we won't eventually."

Earlier this month, China tightened its restrictions on rare earth elements, which are vital for semiconductor production used in various products, including vehicles. This prompted President Trump to threaten 100% tariffs on all goods made in China next month. Beijing has maintained its stance, creating a stalemate with significant consequences for U.S. automakers.

Caldwell expressed concern about the semiconductor shortage, stating, "The semiconductor is worrisome because it's in so many things in the car. It's not just in a body panel but it could be in the seats, the entertainment system -- anything basically."

The ultimate impact of these supply chain disruptions on consumers remains unclear. Experts suggest that automakers may continue to absorb tariff-related costs to maintain price stability and protect their market share. Joseph McCabe, president and CEO of AutoForecast Solutions, remarked, "I see manufacturers absorbing more of the pain in the short term so they don't lose customers."

Despite the uncertain outlook, Caldwell advised potential buyers to consider making a purchase sooner rather than later. "It's probably a good idea to keep your eyes open for deals. I wouldn't hesitate to buy earlier rather than thinking, 'Maybe in the future it will be a better time to buy.' I'm not sure it will be."

Morici echoed this sentiment, stating, "If you want to buy a car in the next month, you should do it -- if you can get a good deal."