Tariff uncertainty rattles Seattle auto repair shops 'Wait and see'

Seattle's auto repair shops are grappling with customer anxiety stemming from the announcement of steep tariffs on imported vehicles and parts. While President Trump has implemented a temporary 90-day delay on some tariffs, repair shop owners are still concerned about the potential long-term impact on repair costs. Mariajose Barrera, owner of Mose Auto, shared that customers frequently inquire about the effects of tariffs on pricing. She highlighted the challenge of maintaining low profit margins amid rising parts costs, stressing that increased expenses would ultimately be passed on to customers. In contrast, Fred Wilson of High Road Automotive informed customers that labor costs, which constitute a significant portion of repair bills, are not affected by the tariffs.

Wilson's proactive communication strategy aims to reassure customers that there have been no immediate price hikes. Both owners recognize that the current economic climate is volatile, and they emphasize the importance of vehicle maintenance to avoid more expensive repairs later on. As they navigate these challenges, transparency and open dialogue with customers remain pivotal for sustaining their businesses.