Auto Workers Strike To Drive Up Prices

September 17, 2023 8:10 am

DALLAS (AP) — If the United Auto Workers strike isn’t settled soon, consumers will see higher prices for new cars — and not just the ones from Detroit. On Friday, union members picketed outside a Ford plant, a General Motors plant, and a Stellantis factory. Right now, the automakers have big inventories, so most analysts say there shouldn’t be an immediate shortage of cars. But if the strike drags on and dealers lose manufacturer incentives to cut prices, car buyers will be in for another round of sticker shock. If consumers can’t find a Ford, GM or Stellantis vehicle, they’ll have to turn to nonunion competitors like Toyota, Honda and Tesla, which will be able to raise their prices.