All About Japan Autos

Even though Toyota has resumed production on key Prius models, the aftermath of Japan’s nuclear crisis and tsunami continue to affect U.S. car shoppers. A paint manufacturer inside the evacuation zone around the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant could be shut down for as long as eight weeks, reports Left Lane News. As a result, Ford Motor Co. has asked dealers not to order trucks and SUVs in “Tuxedo Black” and three shades of red, while Chrysler has stopped ordering as many as ten colors. Toyota has also been affected, as the plant manufactures a pigment that the manufacturer uses to make its paint colors sparkle.

The shortage’s effects on American manufacturers and dealers have been delayed, but most automakers expect to start feeling the pinch soon. Honda has told its North American dealers that production stoppages will be likely in early April because of parts shortages, according to the Detroit News. Mazda has asked its U.S. branch to stop ordering vehicles made in Japan until further notice, interrupting the supply of seven models, writes Automotive News. The Mazda2, Mazda3, MX-5 Miata, RX-8, CX-7, CX-9, and Mazda5 are all affected.

However, most automakers still have sizeable long-term supplies of models for now. While shoppers can no longer order certain colors or models straight from production, dealers are still likely to have plenty of models on hand to satisfy demand. As of March 1, Mazda still had a 94-day supply of cars on hand, while a 60-day supply is considered normal, according to the same Automotive News article. But as the crisis wears on, dealers and shoppers alike may begin to feel the effects of the shortage.

If you’re considering buying a new car in the next few months, you have a few options. If you buy now rather than waiting, you might still be able to get the model and the color that you want, but you probably won’t have a very strong position when it comes to negotiating a price with the dealer. On the other hand, waiting a few months until the supply chain is in better shape could mean that you’ll have more options and a lower price. If you can wait, the second option might be better. But CNN Money suggests that less patient buyers should save money by buying now.

Shopping for a new car? Check out our list of this year’s Best Cars for the Money, then take a look at the best car deals in March. To stay updated on the latest news, follow us on Twitter.