The Trump Economy is Fueling a Made-in-America Car Buying Boom
President Donald Trump’s America-first trade policies are reshaping the auto market—and it’s putting American-made vehicles back in the driver’s seat. According to a new report from LendingTree, U.S. consumers are buying cars sooner, spending more, and choosing domestic brands—all in anticipation of Trump’s bold 25% tariffs on foreign-made vehicles and car parts.
A national survey of 2,000 consumers shows 72% have adjusted their car-buying plans this year, with 81% of new car buyers saying they made their purchase earlier than expected because of tariff concerns. Even more telling—50% of buyers increased their vehicle budget specifically in response to Trump’s trade policies.
This surge in auto sales reflects a broader trend in the Trump economy: confidence in American manufacturing, economic resilience, and strategic financial planning by older consumers looking to protect their bottom line.
Tariffs Trigger Smart Spending and Surge in Demand
President Trump’s 25% auto tariffs—still in effect since April—have created a ripple effect throughout the auto industry. Despite some exemptions for USMCA-compliant parts, many Americans are acting fast to lock in prices before potential increases.
The result? A phenomenon called “front-loading,” where shoppers make big-ticket purchases early to avoid inflation. LendingTree’s data reveals that 37% of Americans plan to buy a car sooner than planned, while another 36% are waiting to see how trade talks unfold.
This proactive spending strategy is especially common among older adults who understand the long-term value of buying before prices spike.
Rising Costs Ahead: Auto Loans, Repairs, and Vehicle Prices Set to Climb
According to LendingTree, 77% of Americans believe car ownership will become more expensive in 2025, with 74% expecting higher vehicle prices and 69% bracing for increased repair and parts costs. This concern is already driving behavior, with 40% saying they’ll drive less this year to manage expected expenses.
Global consulting firm AlixPartners estimates Trump’s tariffs will add $1,760 to the average new car, with auto manufacturers passing about 80% of those costs on to buyers.
Buy American: Patriotism and Practicality Drive Consumer Choices
Faced with rising foreign auto costs, American consumers are responding by going local. 67% of prospective buyers now say they’re more likely to purchase an American-made vehicle. That echoes a Cars.com survey in which 73% of drivers said they’d choose U.S.-built cars to sidestep tariffs.
The top four most American-made vehicles this year? All from Tesla, followed by strong contenders from Jeep, Kia, Honda, and Volkswagen. Domestic manufacturing is on the rise, and so is buyer loyalty to brands building cars right here at home.
Auto Loans and Interest Rates: A Balancing Act for Seniors and Savers
Many older Americans are hoping that future interest rate cuts will offset rising vehicle costs. But as LendingTree analyst Rob Bhatt points out, tariffs may cancel out the benefits of lower auto loan rates.
“Until we get clarity on tariffs and interest rates,” Bhatt said, “car buyers will likely continue making early, strategic purchases.”
Trump Pushes for U.S. Jobs and Plants, Not Imports
In a recent White House appearance, President Trump hinted that tariffs could rise again, reinforcing his commitment to bringing auto manufacturing back to American soil.
“The higher you go, the more likely they are to build here,” Trump said—referring to foreign automakers reconsidering overseas production.
Thanks to Trump’s newly signed Economic Prosperity Deal with the U.K., up to 100,000 British vehicles can now be imported at a reduced 10% rate, easing the burden for key allies while keeping the pressure on competitors like China and the EU.
Bottom Line: Trump’s Trade Policy Spurs Smart Spending and Made-in-America Momentum
Whether you’re planning to buy a new car, refinance an auto loan, or switch to a domestic brand, Trump’s economic policies are reshaping the landscape. Older Americans, in particular, are responding with smart, forward-thinking decisions—boosting both their financial security and the American economy.