United Auto Workers strike could drive up new and used car prices, cause parts shortage

If the auto workers strike continues for a couple weeks, it could strain the supply of popular vehicles and quickly drive up car and truck prices.

While it's still too early to tell how long the strike will last and how many auto plants will be affected, consumers are already concerned about how the work stoppages will affect their ability to buy a new or used vehicle, or repair one they already own. 

"Consumers are definitely getting jittery wondering what to do. It's a nervous time for them, and I don't know if they realize that the biggest issue will be parts," Tom Maoli, a Ford dealership owner in New Jersey, told CBS MoneyWatch. "That means tires, breaks, anything you need to change and keep your car running."