Updated
Updated · Car Dealership Guy News · May 18
Harris Poll Finds 56% of US Adults Distrust Automakers on Prices as 84% Fear Unnecessary Hikes
Updated
Updated · Car Dealership Guy News · May 18

Harris Poll Finds 56% of US Adults Distrust Automakers on Prices as 84% Fear Unnecessary Hikes

1 articles · Updated · Car Dealership Guy News · May 18
  • 2,085 U.S. adults surveyed by Harris Poll showed a deep trust gap in car shopping, with 56% saying automakers are not honest about rising vehicle prices.
  • 84% said they worry cost pressures could be used to justify unnecessary increases, even though many consumers recognize inflation and tariffs are pushing prices higher.
  • Rising vehicle costs are straining household budgets and reshaping purchase decisions, making affordability concerns a bigger factor in whether hesitant buyers move forward.
  • Dealers that clearly explain pricing, communicate cost pressures and offer affordable options may gain an edge as trust becomes a more important differentiator in closing sales.
Why are automakers ditching affordable cars when buyers need them more than ever?
With car prices at record highs, where is the extra $8,000 per vehicle actually going?
As cars become unaffordable luxuries, is the American dream of vehicle ownership ending?