Consumers, Car Owners Could Be Impacted By Japanese Tsunami

Jon Jordan, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Consumers in the market for new cars, particularly those made in Japan, may want to consider their purchases carefully.  The earthquake that hit Japan last March and triggered a deadly 23-foot tidal wave is beginning to impact the production and supply of cars and car parts made in that country.

The extent of the impact is still uncertain, but those in the automotive industry say it is impossible for dealerships here in the U.S. to escape the effects in one way or another.

The worst case is that the auto industry could be working at a reduced inventory for the next 90 days.

One reason why consumers would consider buying now isn't just fear the sticker price could rise, but those in the auto industry say the price of your used car is "climbing."

One Oklahoma dealership isn't ruling out the price of a car increasing, but says if it happens it will most likely occur on the east and west coasts. He says consumers should be careful when buying a car fearing dealerships may try to entice buyers by the fear of a supply shortage which he adds would be price gouging.

Vehicles most likely to be impacted due to a shortage would be hybrids, at a time when gas prices are going through the roof. Hybrids we are told rely on a unique battery which comes from Japan.

Some models impacted include:

Honda: CR-Z, Insight Hybrid, Fit Compact, Acura TSX.

Toyota: Prius, Yaris, Corolla, 4Runner, RAV4, Lexus ES and IS sedans.

Nissan: Rogue, Juke, Murano.

Mazda: 3, CX-9, CX-7.

Subaru: Forester, Impreza.

(Source: ONESTOP News)