U.S. automakers worry that President Donald Trump's agreement to tariff Japanese vehicles at 15% would put them at a competitive disadvantage, saying they will face steeper import taxes on steel, aluminum and parts than their competitors.

The preliminary agreement suggests there is a path forward to lowering the auto duties on other major trading partners, as well.

U.S. car companies are protesting President Donald Trump's new trade deal with Japan, saying it gives that country's automakers an unfair advantage. The deal calls for a 15% tariff on Japanese-made vehicles,