As the world emerged from pandemic-related lockdowns in early 2021, a significant supply chain shock left its mark on car ownership costs in the U.S. Initially, this impacted used car prices. Then, it shifted to new vehicles, replacement parts, and eventually spilled over into loan costs and vehicle insurance rates. Price volatility in the automotive sector has raised fears of a renewed shock as new tariffs threaten to escalate these costs further. With rising expenses in the industry, consumers face a decision on vehicle purchases or might reconsider how they finance their automotive needs. Tariff implications could reshape the automotive landscape, leading to higher prices and altered consumer behaviors.