If the UAW strike leads to a win for the union, southern auto workers believe that will lead to a pay up at plants like Nissan and Mercedes.

For the first time, the UAW is on strike against the Big 3 U.S. automakers at once. Workers at three plants have been called out so far, with more to follow Friday if there's no progress on a deal.

The union is prepared to strike. Auto companies say they're still waiting for counteroffers. And so far, there's no deal in sight.