Finding a dealership open on Sunday requires knowing which states allow sales and which brands operate there. If you’re asking what car dealerships are open on Sunday, you’re likely trying to make the most of your weekend to shop for a vehicle. This guide provides a clear, state-by-state breakdown and practical steps to find Sunday openings near you.
What Car Dealerships Are Open On Sunday
Not all car dealerships can open on Sunday. The ability to operate depends primarily on state laws, often referred to as “blue laws,” and then on individual brand or dealer group policies. Some states completely prohibit vehicle sales on Sunday, while others allow it, giving dealerships the choice to open or not.
This creates a patchwork of availability across the country. Your first step is always to check your specific state’s regulations.
States Where Sunday Car Sales Are Prohibited
A handful of states maintain laws that forbid automobile dealerships from conducting sales on Sundays. In these states, you will not find any new car dealerships open for purchasing a vehicle, though some may have staff present for service or pre-arranged viewings.
- Illinois: State law prohibits the sale of motor vehicles on Sunday.
- Indiana: Vehicle sales are not permitted on Sundays.
- Minnesota: Long-standing blue laws prevent Sunday car sales.
- Missouri: Most counties prohibit Sunday sales, with a few exceptions.
- Oklahoma: State law restricts the sale of vehicles on Sunday.
- Pennsylvania: Automobile sales are prohibited on Sundays.
- Wisconsin: Dealers cannot sell cars on Sunday.
If you live in one of these states, your Sunday car shopping will be limited to private sellers or using the day for online research. Always verify with your local county, as some rural areas in other states may have similar restrictions.
States Where Sunday Car Sales Are Permitted
The majority of states allow car dealerships to open on Sunday. This means the decision then falls to the dealership owner or the corporate brand’s policy. Availability can vary widely even within the same city.
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
In these states, you’ll need to research specific brands and call ahead, as hours are not uniform.
Major Brands And Their Typical Sunday Policies
Even in states where it’s legal, some national brands discourage or outright prohibit their franchised dealers from opening on Sundays. Others leave it to the dealer’s discretion. Here’s a general overview of common brand policies.
Brands That Often Allow Sunday Sales
- Ford: Many Ford dealerships, especially in high-volume markets, are open on Sundays.
- Chevrolet: Sunday openings are common but not guaranteed at all Chevy dealers.
- Toyota: A significant number of Toyota dealers choose to operate on Sundays.
- Honda: Similar to Toyota, Sunday hours are frequently offered.
- Nissan: Often found open on Sundays in permitted states.
- Hyundai & Kia: These brands commonly have Sunday hours to remain competitive.
- Most Luxury Brands (BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Lexus): These dealerships are less likely to be open on Sunday, prioritizing appointment-based sales, but some in busy areas do open.
Brands That Rarely Open on Sunday
- Subaru: Corporate policy strongly encourages dealers to remain closed on Sundays as part of its “Retailer Holiday.” Most Subaru dealerships are closed.
- Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram: Stellantis (the parent company) has historically encouraged dealership closures on Sundays, though this is not an absolute rule. Many are closed.
Remember, these are trends, not absolutes. A local dealer group’s policy can override a brand’s general stance.
How To Find A Dealership Open On Sunday Near You
Follow these steps to efficiently locate a dealership that’s open for business this Sunday.
Step 1: Confirm Your State’s Law
Quickly reference the lists above. If you are in a state that prohibits sales, you’ll need to adjust your plan. If your state allows it, proceed to step two.
Step 2: Use Online Tools and Maps
Google Maps is your best friend. Search for “car dealerships near me” and then check the listed hours for each result. Dealers almost always keep their Google My Business hours up-to-date, including Sunday.
- Look for the “Hours” section on the dealership’s Google listing.
- Note that hours may differ for sales, service, and parts.
- Some listings may show “Temporarily closed” on Sunday, which is a clear indicator.
Step 3: Check Dealership Websites Directly
Navigate to the “Contact” or “About Us” page of a dealership’s website. Their hours of operation are almost always posted there. This is also where you might find special notices about holiday hours or sales events.
Step 4: Make a Phone Call
If online information is ambiguous or outdated, a quick phone call is the most reliable method. Call during business hours on a Saturday and ask directly, “Are you open for car sales tomorrow (Sunday)?” This also gives you a chance to ask about specific inventory.
Step 5: Consider Large Dealer Groups
Major automotive retailer chains like AutoNation, Lithia Motors, and Penske Automotive Group often have standardized hours across many of their locations, frequently including Sunday. Checking one of their dealership websites can give you a good clue about others in their network.
Benefits Of Shopping For A Car On Sunday
Why bother with Sunday shopping? There are several distinct advantages if you can find an open dealership.
- Less Crowded: Sundays are often quieter than Saturdays. You’ll likely get more uninterrupted time with a salesperson and more attention during your test drive.
- More Relaxed Atmosphere: The slower pace can lead to a less pressured sales environment, allowing you to think clearly.
- Easier Family Scheduling: It’s often easier for families to shop together on a Sunday when children are not in school and other weekly activities have concluded.
- Potential for End-of-Weekend Deals: Some salespeople may be more motivated to close a deal before the week ends, though this is not a guarantee.
What To Expect When You Visit On A Sunday
A Sunday visit may differ slightly from a weekday or Saturday visit. Being prepared ensures a smooth experience.
- Reduced Staff: There may be fewer salespeople and managers on duty. This could mean a longer wait if they are busy, or it could mean more personalized service.
- Finance Office Limitations: While you can negotiate and complete a sale, the financing department might not be fully staffed. Final loan paperwork and funding sometimes must be completed the next business day, meaning you might not drive the car home that night.
- Focus on Sales: The service and parts departments are often closed or have limited hours, so the entire focus of the dealership is on selling cars.
- Call Ahead for Specific Cars: If you have a specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in mind, call to confirm it’s still on the lot and available for a test drive that day.
Tips For A Successful Sunday Car Buying Experience
To make the most of your Sunday car shopping trip, keep these practical tips in mind.
Prepare Your Documentation
Bring the necessary items with you to streamline the process. This includes your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and if you plan to finance, recent pay stubs and banking information. Having these ready saves valuable time.
Do Your Research in Advance
Use Saturday or earlier in the week to research models, compare prices online using tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds, and even get pre-approved for financing from your bank or credit union. Walking in with knowledge gives you a strong negotiating position.
Schedule a Test Drive Appointment
If possible, call the dealership and schedule a specific time for your test drive on Sunday. This guarantees a salesperson will be available for you and ensures the car you want to drive is ready and on site.
Be Clear About Your Timeline
If you need to take the vehicle home on Sunday, state this clearly early in your conversation. Ask directly, “If we agree on a deal today, can I complete all financing and drive it home today?” This sets the right expectations.
FAQ: Car Dealerships Open Sunday
Why are some car dealerships closed on Sunday?
Dealerships close on Sunday either due to state law prohibitions or by choice. Some owners choose to give employees the day off, while brands like Subaru have a corporate philosophy supporting a day of rest. It can also be a cost-saving measure in slower markets.
Can I buy a car on Sunday if the dealership is open?
Yes, if the dealership is open for sales, you can complete the entire purchase process. However, finalizing bank financing might occasionally require completion on the next business day, depending on the lender’s hours.
Are used car dealerships open on Sunday?
Independent used car dealerships are more likely to be open on Sundays than new car franchises, even in some states with restrictive laws, as they sometimes operate under different licensing. It’s always best to check their posted hours online or call ahead.
Do car dealerships open on Sunday for service?
Service department hours are separate from sales hours. Some dealerships, especially in high-demand areas, may offer Sunday service hours even if they are in a state that prohibits Sunday sales. You must check the specific service hours for that department.
What is the best way to find Sunday openings near me?
The most efficient method is to use Google Maps to search for dealerships and then view their listed “Hours of Operation.” This information is typically updated by the business itself and will clearly show if they are open on Sunday. A follow-up phone call can confirm.
Finding a car dealership open on Sunday is a matter of understanding your local laws and then doing some targeted research. By using online tools and calling ahead, you can easily locate a dealer that fits your weekend schedule. This allows you to shop at a more relaxed pace and make one of your most significant purchases without taking time off work. With this guide, you’re now equipped to plan your next Sunday car shopping trip effectively.