Understanding Auto Tariffs: What Canadian Car Shoppers Need to Know
Worried about auto tariffs and rising prices?
You’re not alone. With increasing buzz about the proposed tariffs and their potential impact on the Canadian auto industry, many drivers are asking the same thing:
“Should I buy now or wait?”
Let’s break it down—because buying smart starts with being informed.
What Are Tariffs—And Why Should You Care?
A tariff is a tax placed on imported goods. For car buyers in Canada, this means:
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Higher prices on imported vehicles and parts
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Reduced availability of certain models
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Longer delivery times due to supply chain slowdowns
Tariffs can raise your car price overnight—even if nothing else changes.
How Will Tariffs Affect Canada?
With discussions around tariffs, US tariffs on Canada, and who pays tariffs, there’s a lot of confusion. Here’s the short version:
Most tariffs are paid by the importer, meaning manufacturers and dealerships absorb the cost and pass it on to buyers.
The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) helps protect Canadian-built vehicles, but uncertainty around other imports remains high.
These changes can ripple across both new and used car markets—affecting your trade-in value, financing, and more.
Why Waiting Might Cost You More
Many shoppers are asking: “Will US tariffs affect Canada?” Yes—and the real cost could be waiting too long. Tariffs create:
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Higher new car prices
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Tighter inventory
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Rising interest rates
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Price hikes in used cars due to increased demand and fewer imports
The longer you wait, the more uncertain the market becomes.
Canadian-Made = Tariff-Free Peace of Mind
Good news: many vehicles built in Canada are exempt from these tariffs. That means: Stable pricing and better availability
Here are some great Canadian-built options available at Go Auto right now:
- Honda CR-V & Civic – Alliston, Ontario
- Toyota RAV4 – Woodstock, Ontario
- Chrysler Pacifica & Jeep Compass – Windsor, Ontario
- Dodge Charger & Challenger – Brampton, Ontario
- Ford Edge & Lincoln Nautilus – Oakville, Ontario
- Chevrolet Silverado & GMC Sierra (Light-duty) – Oshawa, Ontario
Why Shop with Go Auto?
We’re proud to be a Canadian-owned and operated company, and that means we understand what matters to Canadian drivers—especially when it comes to rising costs, shifting policies, and uncertainty in the market.
At Go Auto, we’re here to make your decision easier, not harder.
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Over 14,000 Tariff Free Vehicles in stock
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Flexible financing tailored to your budget
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No hidden fees. Real-time pricing. Total transparency
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A team that actually answers your questions
From your first car to your next upgrade, we’ve got your back.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays tariffs?
Tariffs are typically paid by the importer—but those added costs often end up in the final vehicle price. At Go Auto, we help you avoid unexpected price jumps by showing real-time pricing on all vehicles, so you’re never caught off guard.
Are used vehicles impacted?
Yes. When new car prices go up, demand for used vehicles increases—raising their prices too. Go Auto’s massive inventory of over 14,000 new and used vehicles, including many Canadian-built, tariff-free options, gives you more flexibility and protection from price surges.
Will my trade-in lose value?
Possibly. As the market changes, trade-in values can shift. Use Go Auto’s free Trade-In Tool to get a real-time estimate and lock in your value before market conditions shift.
Should I buy now?
If you want to stay ahead of rising prices and shrinking inventory—yes. Go Auto lets you get pre-approved online, book appointments qucikly, and shop confidently knowing you're getting the best available pricing, without hidden fees.
