How Tariffs on New Cars Will Affect Used Car Prices

With recent announcements of a 25% tariff on vehicles imported into the United States, many are left wondering

how this might affect the prices of used cars. While these tariffs target new vehicles, the ripple effects could be felt

throughout the entire automotive market. Let’s dive into the implications and what car buyers should consider moving forward.

Understanding the New Tariffs

Earlier this year, President Trump announced a 25% tariff on cars not assembled in the United States,

a move set to begin on April 3rd. An additional tariff on car parts will follow on May 3rd. These tariffs will significantly

impact every car company, regardless of where they assemble their cars. Today, roughly half of the vehicles sold

in the United States are imported. Among these imports, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Germany are

the top sources. Despite the perception of certain brands as American, vehicles like the Chevy Blazer and Silverado

often cross borders multiple times during production, each crossing potentially incurring a tariff.

Impact on New Car Prices

With these tariffs, new car prices are expected to rise, potentially increasing by $3,000 to $6,000. This increase results

from distributing the cost of tariffs across all vehicles. Even cars assembled in the United States might not escape price

hikes due to imported parts.

What This Means for Used Car Prices

As new car prices rise and potentially lead to a halt in production, consumers may turn to the used car market.

This increased demand could drive up the prices for used vehicles as well. With fewer new cars available,

fewer people will trade in their old cars, thus decreasing the supply of used vehicles. This situation could mirror

what was experienced five years ago during the pandemic—the halted production, chip shortage, and supply chain

issues led to a shortage of new cars and increased reliance on the used car market, driving prices sky-high.

Dealing with Reduced Supply

Small dealerships, like Reynolds Automotive in Merriam, Kansas, face unique challenges. As larger franchise dealers

and companies like CarMax hold onto used cars, buying options for smaller players decrease.

At Reynolds Automotive, the ripple effects are already being observed as prices at auctions begin to rise.

Large companies stockpile used cars, preparing for a shift in customer demand from new to used vehicles, a strategy difficult

for smaller dealerships due to limited capital.

Buyer Advice

For those considering purchasing a car soon, it might be wise to start looking now. As the market adjusts to these new tariffs,

early buyers could avoid potential price hikes. However, it’s essential to remain selective and avoid impulsive purchases.

Conclusion

Tariffs on new cars create a cascading effect throughout the automotive sector. For small dealerships and consumers

alike, the economic disruptions can pose challenges. Those working in car sales, and the broader consumer market,

will undoubtedly feel these changes. As we navigate these uncertain times, understanding these potential impacts

becomes crucial. In conclusion, while we hope these tariffs don't come to pass, only time will tell. So, for now, spread

the word, make informed decisions, and happy driving!

If you are considering an extended car warranty, you need to be prepared with questions for the car dealership.

1. What is the total "out the door" cost, including taxes and fees?

2. Can this be rolled into the car payment?

3. How many years or miles does the warranty last?

4. Can anything cause it to be cancelled before it expires?

5. What is the deductible for each incident?

6. Are there limits to how many claims can be made in a set period of time?

7. What is NOT covered?

8. What mechanics can I use and do I need prior approval?

9. What happens if the car is sold before the warranty expires?

10. What happens if the car is totaled before the warranty expires?

Why Choose a Honda?

There are several manufacturers known for making reliable cars. So why should you choose a Honda? Here are a couple of reasons.

Reliability

If you are in the market for a used car, you’re probably concerned about reliability more than anything. Car buyers can feel comfortable purchasing used Hondas.

We’re sure you know someone who drove their Honda for 250,000+ miles. But it’s not only these first-hand accounts that make people loyal to the brand. In 2020, Honda won the Best Value Brand Award from Kelley Blue Book due to “Honda’s quality, reliability, durability, and resale value.”

It’s worth noting that Hondas have an excellent resale value. This may be a drawback for those looking for a used vehicle. But the car industry is like most other industries – you have to be willing to pay for quality.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) test passenger vehicles yearly. The Accord, Civic, Insight, CR-V, and Odyssey were all named “Top Safety Picks” by the IIHS. Additionally, the Accord, Insight, HR-V, Pilot, Ridgeline, and Odyssey all received 5-star safety ratings from the NHTSA.

Also, Forbes named the Honda Odyssey, CR-V, Civic, and Accord as the safest and most reliable used models in their vehicle categories (and the Pilot was runner-up in its category.) So, yes, Hondas are known for being safe vehicles.

Most of Honda’s new models are equipped with active driver assistance features called Honda Sensing. While these features are available on most new models today, you may find them currently on used high-end Hondas.

Look for lane-keeping systems and blind spot detection systems. And, of course, all Hondas have airbags, and most have ABS brakes.

5 Great Used Hondas

When buying a used car, you should always research the specific year’s model. Even though Honda is known for reliability and safety, some years’ models rate better than others.

Generally, here are five models that have stood the test of time.

Civic: The Civic is popular because it is compact and has excellent fuel economy. It also has more cargo and passenger space than other vehicles in its category.

Pilot: The popular Pilot is perfect for those who want to avoid a minivan but need a third row for carpools.

Accord: The Accord has been described as an excellent car for “people who like to drive fast.” While we certainly can’t speak to this description, we know that Accords have a reputation for being reliable and easy to repair.

CR-V: The CR-V is a popular compact SUV. It gets better than expected gas mileage.

Odyssey: The Odyssey is perfect for growing families as the vehicle can seat seven comfortably and has an impressive cargo space and a smooth ride. We sell more Odysseys than any other vehicle. 

Search for Quality Used Hondas at Reynolds Automotive

Reynolds Automotive in Merriam, KS has plenty of reliable previously-owned Hondas for the used car buyer. We accept trade ins and offer financing options. Ask our staff about our 3-month warranty.

How To Check Your Antifreeze

It may not cross most people's minds, but checking your car's antifreeze protection level is an important part of regular maintenance. Anti-freeze helps protect your car from damage caused by cold weather, and keeping it at the proper level could save you from costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will show you how to check your car's antifreeze protection level and what to do if it needs to be adjusted.

What You Need

Before you begin, there are a few items you need for the job:

• An anti-freeze tester: These are usually sold for just a few dollars at any auto parts store.

• Paper towel or rag: This will help keep the anti-freeze off of surfaces like paint that could get damaged.

• Ziplock bag: This will help keep dirt out of your anti-freeze tester while you’re not using it.

Step 1: Locate The Reservoir

The first step is to locate the reservoir where your car’s anti-freeze is stored. This is usually in the engine compartment, and it looks like a plastic container with a lid on top. There should also be a warning label telling you not to open the lid while the fluid is hot – so always make sure that your car has been sitting idle for at least two hours before proceeding! 

Step 2: Testing The Anti-Freeze

Now that you have located the reservoir, insert the end of your tester into the fluid (you may have to use a straw attached to the bottom of the tester). Then pump up and down until about half of the fluid has been drawn up into the glass chamber on top. Now look at how many “balls” are floating on top of the fluid; this number tells you how well protected your car is against extreme cold temperatures. Once done testing, pour any remaining liquid into its original container, then wipe off any residue with a paper towel or rag. 

Step 3: Storing The Tester

After testing, use a Ziplock bag to store your anti-freeze tester until its next use. This will help keep dust and dirt off of it when it’s not in use! And don't forget - always remember that antifreeze is poisonous so make sure none gets on any surfaces outside of its original container!   

Checking your car's antifreeze protection level doesn't have to be difficult or complicated; with these simple steps anyone can do it themselves! With regular testing every few months, you'll know exactly how well protected against extreme cold temperatures your vehicle really is - potentially saving yourself hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs down the line!

Top 5 Most Reliable Used Vehicles

Looking for a new-to-you used car can be a stressful experience – especially if you know little about the market. Shopping at a used-car dealership with a lot of inventory is helpful because you can test drive many different vehicles. But how do you know which vehicle will stand the test of time?

As a service to our customers, we have scoured the lists of the most reliable used vehicles from excellent sources such as Car and Driver, Consumer Reports, and Auto List. Here’s what we discovered.

5 Reliable Used Cars

Here are five vehicles that received nods from multiple sources.

1. Honda CR-V

It shouldn’t be a surprise that a product made by Honda appears at the top of our list. In fact, multiple years of the Honda CR-V made a list, including 2005, 2006, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2021. The Honda CR-V is categorized as a compact crossover SUV. You may like the Honda CR-V for its roomy cabin, good fuel economy, and sure-footed handling. But you will love your Honda CR-V because of its dependability.

2. Toyota Highlander

The Highlander was one of the first midsize crossovers and one of Toyota’s best-selling SUVs. Like the CR-V, the Highlander is known for its roomy cabin and stability. Some reports say the best years for the Highlander span from 2017-2021, giving you many years from which to choose.

3. Mazda3

The Mazda3 is available as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback. It’s stylish and boasts excellent handling. Besides having a powerful engine and a user-friendly “infotainment system,” the Mazda3 is also known for being reliable – for models 2014 and newer.

4. Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent is a reliable subcompact car with excellent fuel economy and adequate passenger space. Reports show that 2018-2021 models are the most reliable.

5. Lexus RX 350

This luxury crossover SUV appeared on multiple lists of “most reliable cars.” The Lexus RX 350 is known for its excellent safety ratings, good fuel economy, and comfortable cabin. Most reports show the best years for the RX 350 were between 2011 - 2013 and 2018 - 2021.

Other Contenders

While we limited our list to five reliable vehicles, we could have included many others. Here are some to consider as you search for a reliable car:

• Toyota Camry

• Toyota Corolla

• Toyota RAV-4

• Honda Pilot

• Honda Odyssey

How to Buy a Reliable Car

Selecting a car is a big decision. Here are some tips to help you find a reliable vehicle.

1. Research: Scour rating charts and reliability reports. The information is at your fingertips!

2. Search for Reliable Brands: Every once in a while, a manufacturer may have a stand-out in their line that receives excellent ratings. However, you know you can depend on Toyota and Honda for a reliable ride.

3. Accident Reports and Maintenance Logs: Once you have chosen a specific make and model, narrow down your choices by looking at accident reports and available maintenance history.

4. Dealership: Choose wisely. Buy from a trusted dealership in your area like Reynolds Automotive.

Find Your Next Used Car at Reynolds Automotive

Reynolds Automotive is a family-owned and operated car dealership in Merriam, KS. Husband and wife, Todd and Meredith Reynolds, are onsite every day, doing everything they can to be honest and trustworthy to change your mind about used car dealers. We have a large inventory of quality used cars. Stop by for a test drive and ask about our three-month warranty.

So you're considering an electric car. Smart move! I highly suggest the Chevy Bolt. I personally drive one, despite having access to any car on our dealership lot. Occasionally I'm tempted by the luxury of a GMC Denali or top end Jeep Cherokee. I think about how much easier it would be for my kid to get in the car with the push-button opening on a Honda Odyssey. But then I remember all the reasons I love my Chevy Bolt.

100% Electric

The Chevy Bolt is not a hybrid; it's an all-electrive vehicle (AEV). To charge it, you don't need any equipment other than the 120V outlet you already have in your garage and the charging cord that comes with the car. With the 120V outlet, your Bolt will only charge 4 miles per hour. You would therefore need to charge every single night and possibly all weekend, depending on your useage. However, upgrading to a 240V outlet will cut your charging down to just 4 hours total! We made this upgrade a year into our EV experience and it was well worth the money spent. The great news for Evergy electricity customers is that you can qualify for up to a $500 rebate for the cost of the 240V installation.

On a fully-charged battery, you can expect to drive up to 250 miles, though a more realistic estimate is 180-200. Keep in mind when shopping for ANY electric car, the maximum mileage only occures under perfect conditions--not using air conditioning, not driving over 50 MPH, etc. With an electric car, you actually get better gas mileage in the city than on the highway. Each time you use the brakes, energy is sent back into the battery. Stop and go traffic is no longer something to curse at! Additionally, the Chevy Bolt has regenerative braking. This is a paddle on the steering wheel that causes you to slow down and eventually brake. According to JD Power, up to 70% of the kinetic energy used in braking is captured and returned to the battery with this system. It takes some getting used to, but I use this feature regularly when I don't need an abrupt stop.

People often ask if the money I save on gas is actually worth it due to the electricity I consume by charging at home. The answer is "Yes, definitely!" When we first purchased our Bolt, we saw a $50 drop in our gas/electricity cost the first month. This was in 2019 when gas prices were much lower than today in 2022, so I have no doubt that we are saving even more now. Since then, we have discovered another way to save while charging and you can read about it here. I have also been asked if using electricity over gas is actually doing anything to help the earth. Here in the Kansas City metro, Every provides our electricity and they currently source wind for 30% of their energy, and their coal-dependency drops each year in relation to their wind and solar-dependency increasing. There's no perfect solution for helping our earth, but replacing gas-powered vehicles with electric is a huge step in the right direction.

Size

The Chevy Bolt is a 5-passenger hatchback with back seats that fold down. We have easily filled the hatchback alone with two lawn chairs and my 7-year-old's bike with room to spare. I also have plenty of trunk space for groceries each week. We see large SUVs with third rows that impede on the back storage space in a way that makes the Bolt have more storage space. As far as leg room goes, I'm 5'10 and my husband is 6'3 and we are very comfortable. Our daughter is in a carseat in the back and has ample leg room as well. I was reluctant to drive a car this small as I have never owned a compact car, but I don't feel that I'm missing out on anything due to size.

Ease of Use

One of the biggest and most surprising reasons I love my Chevy Bolt is the ease I have in driving it. It has plenty of zip for a 45-year-old mom. Parking, even parallel parking, is simple. I see big vans and SUVs drive past cramped parking spaces that I happily pull into. U-turns, turning around in small spaces, backing up with the use of the backup camera...all a breeze. In 30 years I have driven countless cars and I can say that the Chevy Bolt is the easiest car to maneuver around in.

I'm glad you are considering a Bolt and I hope that you pull the trigger! I have had my Chevy Bolt for 3 years and I'll never buy a gas-powered car again. I see absolutely no reason to. Thanks to my Bolt, I save money by not buying gas, I have plenty of interior space for my family of three, I get around quickly and easily, and I'm doing my part to help the planet.

Meredith Reynolds, Owner

Reynolds Automotive

Merriam, KS

913-766-0348

Many media outlets have been talking a lot about the Fed raising interest rates in order to combat inflation. The Fed has raised the base rate by about 3% so far this year. This is a scary proposition when it comes to a big money purchase like a home or a vehicle. It has a drastic effect on the monthly mortgage payment. But the good news is on vehicles that we sell here at Reynolds Automotive the rate hikes will not cause nearly as dramatic a payment increase.

We usually sell vehicles that are around $20,000 retail. I am going to give you an example of a vehicle that a prospective consumer would finance $20,000 with the older lower rates and what the 3% rate increase does to a 60 month payment.

$20,000 financed at 60 mos. for 3.25% the payment is $362

$20,000 financed at 60 mos. for 6.25% the payment is $389

As you can see the raise in the payment is $27 or less than $1 a month. So don't let the rise in rates scare you away from getting the next car of your dreams.

Here at Reynolds Automotive in Merriam, KS, we are huge fans of the Honda Odyssey. In our many years in business around Kansas City, we have sold more Honda Odysseys than any other vehicle. We believe that they are the best minivan on the market and our many customers around Olathe, Overland Park, Shawnee, Kansas City, MO and KS and even out of state will agree.

Reliability

Families love the Honda Odyssey minivan foremost because of the reliability. MotorandWheels.com says that with regular maintenance, the Honda Odyssey can last up to 300,000 miles or about 20 years. This gets growing families through the childhood years with fewer minivan purchases. With a lifespan that long, it makes sense to buy used. We regularly sell Honda Odysseys that hover around 100,000 miles. This gives families the savings they need over a new minivan while providing many years of running the kids all the places they need to be.

Happy Parents

You at 20: I will never own a minivan.

You at 35: The Odyssey Touring has a built-in vacuum and I can just push a button to open the door at pickup and dropoff? I need this in my life.

Our Odyssey customers frequently become repeat customers. Once they have worn out one, they want another. Odyssey customers are loyal. They stick with what works and trade in for the upgraded newer features. They rarely switch brands.

Moms espcially love Honda Odysseys. Car pooling is easy. There's room for all the sports gear. There are three rows so certain kids can be seperated as needed. The family dog can easily tag along. It's the ultimate #momcar.

About Us

We are a husband and wife selling Honda Odysseys to other husbands and wives. We understand families because we too are parents. We haul our own child all over the Kansas City area and understand how hectic that can be. We are in the office 5-6 days a week and are truly a family-owned and operated business. We strive to be honest and trustworthy and to make the car buying process as easy as possible for you. Buy local and feel good about the family business you are supporting. When looking for a Honda Odyssey for sale around Kansas City, consider Reynolds Automotive!

Todd and Meredith Reynolds

Reynolds Automotive

913-766-0348

Serving the Greater Kansas City, MO, and Kansas City, KS area

The Shifty Used Car Salesman

A recent search for "What do people think of used car salesman" brought up many unflattering terms. Sleazy, obnoxious, pushy, salesy. Additionally, I found many blogs that held the used car salesman as an example of how not to be a good salesman in other areas. Ouch. Honesty? Trustworthiness? Helpful? I found these adjective NOWHERE. Our profession has a lot to overcome. We know because we sometimes see people come in already in a defensive mode. They are bound and determined to sniff out the "scheme" we're trying to run. This makes us sad, but motivates us too.

Introducing the Honest and Helpful Used Car SalesPEOPLE

We are a married couple with our name and reputation on the line. We aren't the average used car dealers. Todd spent 15 years after college building long-term relationships with new car buyers as a salesman in Kansas City. He primarily sold Cadillacs and had families that would buy from him again and again. After finding that honesty, respect, and helpfulness are what kept his customers loyal, Todd decided to use this knowledge to start Reynolds Automotive in Merriam, KS. I, Meredith, spent 18 years as an elementary teacher and school librarian before joining Todd's established business eight years in. Together, along with our talented staff members, we are working to change the picture people have in their minds about car dealers.

Gender in Car Sales

According to AutoRaptor.com, "About 95% of the 20,000 auto dealers in the U.S. belonging to the National Automobile Dealers Association are male. The customers, however, are not predominantly male." 

Having a woman not just on staff, but playing multiple roles from sales to operations to marketing, sets us apart from other car dealers in the Kansas City area. My personality is defined as a wife and mother first. This comes across in how I deal with others. I'm empathetic, a true listener, interested in others, and honest. People come in because they have a need. I feel that my job is to help them fulfill their need and solve their problem. I help more than I "sell." If we were not honest with our customers, they would just be back the next week to call us out on it. This doesn't help anyone and it doesn't grow our business.

The Honest Truth

The honest truth is that we don't carry the cheapest cars in Kansas City or even just Johnson County. There are cheaper cars to be found if spending the littlest possible is your goal. We don't carry rock-bottom cars because we only sell cars we believe in. We are picky about the cars we purchase so that we feel good putting you and your family behind the wheel. To go even further, we provide a three-month warranty at no cost. We want you to sigh with relief when you leave our lot, trusting that you have found a quality car that will last and that you've supported a family business you can feel good about.

Stop by and see us sometime. We'd love to help you find your next favorite car!

Happy driving!

Todd and Meredith Reynolds

Reynolds Autmotive

913-766-0348

Serving the Greater Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KS area

You'll find a reliable Olathe Honda dealership when you stop in at Reynolds Automotive and ask to see our Honda inventory. We have many low-mileage Honda vehicles to choose from, with options designed to fit your budget. Don't pay more than you have to for a reliable car and excellent customer service! Come in to see us and drive home in an affordable pre-owned Honda.

Honda is one of the most dependable names in the automotive market thanks to high safety reviews and quality fuel efficiency. When searching for your new or pre-owned Honda in Olathe, there is one dealership in particular that earns rave reviews across the board.

What Olathe, Kansas Honda dealerships are trustworthy and dependable?

Reynolds Automotive has become one of Olathe's most trusted names for Honda dealerships in the greater Kansas City area. Because we pride ourselves on the quality of service we provide, realizing that you have more choices out there regarding purchasing or leasing a new or pre-owned Honda.

We want you to keep visiting us, which is why our sales staff works tirelessly with you to address even the smallest of details. Those details make your driving experience unique and fun, and we want you to spend your time in Olathe in your new Honda having fun behind the wheel.

Our expert financial team will work with you to find the best financial fit for you, get a payment option that suits your budget, and work with you through the entire approval process, letting you know what is happening and why. We provide clarity and transparency to you when you work with us because trustworthiness is the most crucial aspect of a dealership.

Once you have driven your car off the lot, you can always bring your Honda back to us for necessary maintenance or any unique repairs that you may need. Our technicians are factory trained and use authentic factory Honda parts so you can rest comfortably knowing that your car is being given the very best treatment in Olathe for your Honda. We want your vehicle running optimally, so you can enjoy your driving experience. Our friendly service team will work hard to ensure that your car is running as smoothly as the day you purchased or leased it from us.

What are the reviews in Olathe for Honda dealerships?

Reynolds Automotive, near Olathe with Honda vehicles, has proven to be a trustworthy and dependable dealership based on the plethora of positive reviews left across several platforms. It is one thing to post testimonials on a company website, but when you earn high praise over review platforms, that is when you know that you are doing something right.

We have earned a 4.6 out of 5 on Facebook over nearly 100 reviews and a 4.3 out of 5 over nearly 30 reviews on CarGurus.com. The two most noteworthy ratings belong to DealerRater.com, where we earned a 4.8 out of 5 over 506 reviews, and Google reviews, where we achieved a 4.5 out of 5 based on over 600 reviews.

The critics have spoken, and they have loudly declared that Reynolds Automotive is one of the best dealerships in the Kansas City area for Olathe Honda vehicles and all brands. We strive to provide the best service possible and work diligently to ensure that all of your needs are met before you leave our showroom.

That level of dedication is what has earned us the ratings we have and will drive us to improve your experience each time you visit. Call us today for your test drive or service needs!

Why Buy a Used Honda?

It's no secret that the Honda manufacturer has a strong reputation for building cars that last; in fact, most Honda vehicles are still on the road after 20 years. That's a fantastic testimony to Honda's design and manufacture team that is dedicated to building reliable cars that withstand the test of time. If you're currently shopping for a used vehicle, consider Honda for the many benefits you'll experience as an owner:

• Exceptional fuel economy

• Low maintenance costs

• Affordable repairs

• OEM and aftermarket accessories to customize your Honda

• Smart automotive design

• Loads of extra features and upgrades

• A safe driving experience

There's no better place to start your next vehicle search than at our dealership in Merriam, KS. We work hard to bring you a positive customer experience when you stop by our car lot, whether it's offering you a fair market price for your trade-in, assisting with the financing process, or helping you select the right Honda model for your family's needs. Rest easy knowing that every Honda model that leaves our dealership comes with a 3-month warranty to safeguard your finances. You're in good hands at Reynolds Automotive because we care about our customers.