After the devastation of the March 11th earthquake forced many automakers to suspend production, speculation has run rampant over what the effects would be on the auto industry. Some analysts believe that the disaster will amount to nothing more than a minor hiccup, while others predicted some major shortages for popular models.

Several of the big-name Japanese automakers recently provided updates on their production schedules in the wake of the disaster. Toyota has announced that it will resume production on the Prius and two Lexus hybrid models based on the same platform, somewhat quelling fears of a shortage on the popular hybrid. The automaker predicts that some U.S. plants may have to shut down temporarily, however, as getting parts to the factories may be difficult.

Nissan, meanwhile, is telling its dealers to expect normal, routine service from the company. The automaker is taking orders for May as normal and doesn't anticipate any delays in the delivery of models. The company also says that most dealers have a healthy stock of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles already.

Honda is continuing to suspend production at its two major auto production plants through April 3rd, when it will reassess the situation.

Drivers in the market for a Toyota, Nissan, Honda or any other vehicle may want to shop at New Jersey State Auto Auction, which offers various models from all of these brands at affordable prices.