Union Power in Action: UAW Strike Shakes Up Industry

Approximately 150,000 United Auto Workers (UAW) members, responsible for assembling domestic vehicles for carmakers like Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis, opted to strike at midnight on September 14th (2023). This marks the industry’s most significant labor strike since 2019, when nearly 50,000 GM workers went on strike for 40 days.

This strike’s repercussions could be profound, with a potential multibillion-dollar impact on domestic car, truck, and SUV production. For consumers, both current vehicle owners and prospective buyers, the consequences could be significant.

A strike could severely limit the availability of specific vehicle models, trims, colors, and options as production lines halt. Popular domestic models like GM’s full-size SUVs, such as the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, already in short supply, may become scarcer. The disruption to new car supplies may also drive up prices for used vehicles, continuing the trend sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Furthermore, a UAW strike may extend to parts production, affecting access to components for routine maintenance and repairs. This could lead to delays in service appointments and advisories for consumers to check parts inventories before attempting DIY repairs.

In summary, the impending UAW strike could send shockwaves through the automotive industry, affecting vehicle availability, pricing, and even access to replacement parts. These effects will have a notable impact on consumers and industry stakeholders alike. Make sure to stay in-tuned on our social media platforms, like Instagram and TickTock in order to be fully informed of any updates regarding this matter.