July 2025 Tariff Update: What Section 232 Changes Mean for Importing Cars and Parts

Sean Morris Posted on July 1, 2025

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On June 3, 2025, the White House announced sweeping changes to Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, and derivative products — with major implications beginning July 9, 2025. Here’s what importers of 25-year-old vehicles, auto parts, and related goods need to know:

Key Tariff Increases

Steel & Aluminum Tariffs: Increased from 25% to 50% for most countries.
UK Exemption: Maintains a 25% tariff pending finalization of a U.S.-UK economic deal.
Russia/Belarus: 200% tariff remains in place.
Reciprocal Tariffs: A 10% reciprocal tariff now applies to non-steel/aluminum portions of imports even if Section 232 tariffs are assessed.

Does This Apply to 25-Year-Old Vehicles?

No, these changes generally do not apply to complete used vehicles over 25 years old, such as the Nissan Skyline GT-R. Section 232 primarily targets steel, aluminum, and derivative products, not historic vehicles.

However, auto parts — especially aftermarket, performance, or restoration parts — may be subject to these new tariffs depending on:

Their steel or aluminum content
The country of smelt and cast
Their classification under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS)

What Importers Should Do

Break down content values: Importers can now report the value of steel and aluminum content separately to apply 50% tariff only to that portion.
Track country of smelt & cast: For aluminum products, failure to report this now results in a default 200% tariff.
Audit all 7501 entries: Ensure brokers or logistics partners are classifying and declaring values correctly.
Watch for the July 9 letters: President Trump is expected to issue country-by-country reciprocal tariff guidance, which could affect future vehicle or parts imports.

Real-World Application for JDM Importers

Mitsubishi Pajero Evo

While most 25-year-old Japanese cars remain unaffected by Section 232 tariffs, parts for vehicles like the Nissan Silvia, Skyline, Supra, and RX-7 might be impacted if they include significant steel or aluminum content. Tariffs may apply to:

Body panels (doors, hoods, fenders)
Performance exhausts or manifolds
Suspension arms or mounts
Aftermarket turbochargers with alloy housings

Stay Updated

Tariff enforcement is evolving rapidly. Importers, brokers, and enthusiasts should stay informed and ready to pivot.

If you're unsure whether your shipment will be affected, reach out to us directly or contact your freight forwarding partner for guidance.

Related Links:

Have questions about importing a 25-year-old vehicle or related parts? Contact Toprank to learn more.

844-523-2233 sales@importavehicle.com
Toprank Importers Inventory - https://www.importavehicle.com/inventory
California - https://www.importavehicle.com/california-buyer