Why Are Car Dealerships Closed On Sundays? What To Know
Ever wonder why some car dealerships are closed on Sundays? We explore everything there is to know about this somewhat-outdated commercial practice.
To purchase a car in person, you must head to the dealership. There, you’ll find a helpful salesperson, ample paperwork, and the vehicle of your dreams - except on Sundays. For the most part, dealerships tend to be closed on this day of the week. You might ask yourself - why are car dealerships closed on Sundays?
If you’re interested in learning more about this seemingly random closure for car dealerships on Sunday, you’re in the right place. Though it might seem slightly outdated, there is a reason for this choice. Read on to learn why most car dealerships are closed on Sunday, the states that enforce this process, and other helpful information.
Blue Law Car Dealership Closures
Why are car dealerships closed on Sundays? The top reason is the Blue Laws. Blue Laws came to life to allow Christians and Jews to honor the Sabbath, which is a day of rest. The car dealership rule is less modern than Blue Laws that prohibit the sale of items like alcohol and guns on Sunday.
As with most laws, there are variations in this Blue Law regulation depending on the state you are in. Some completely stop sales from happening, others have minor restrictions, and others don’t participate in the process at all. Some might limit the hours cars can be sold within a Sunday.
Unfortunately, many people only have flexibility during the weekend, and the Sunday closure can be painful. However, it’s a reality for those who live in states that participate in closures.
Is the Blue Law the Only Reason for Sunday Closure?
The most common reason for the closure of a car dealership on a Sunday is Blue Law. Although some would consider it outdated, many locations haven’t made the change and likely will not repeal it in the years to come.
However, there are also a few other reasons why a business might choose to close on a Sunday. Let’s dive into two explanations as to why a company might shut its doors on Sunday rather than remain open for any car-seeking individual.
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Day Off of Work
Another reason many car dealerships close their doors is to provide their employees with a day off. While they might follow the tradition of the Blue Law regulations, they choose to close their doors on Sunday to ensure workers can have a day where they can go home and spend time with their families.
Any job can be tiring, but holding the position of a salesperson can be exhausting. They are required to be many people at one time.
As a salesperson, you must do the following:
- Know what you’re selling very well
- Be an effective communicator
- Be charming and a solid conversationalist
Not to mention the high competition in the car dealership market.
As a car salesperson, it’s beneficial to have a day home to rest and recharge before the coming week. The more rested a salesperson, the more likely they are to make money for themselves and the business.
Banks Are Closed
Another reason car dealerships decide to close their doors on Sundays is because banks are also closed. Without access to the bank, it can be much harder to complete a deal and sell a vehicle to a person without any access to a bank. Dealerships need auto loans for most people, and you can’t get an auto loan from a closed bank.
Of course, many dealerships extend the process because they know they can’t access these auto loans on another day of the week. However, it’s another good reason to limit business hours for the smoothest experience possible in an already complicated process.
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In What States Are Car Dealerships Closed on Sundays?
As mentioned above, Sunday closure for a car dealership isn’t an occurrence in every state. In some states, it might be possible to invest in a vehicle on a Sunday. However, others keep doors shut and don’t seem set on changing their mind anytime soon.
The following states require closed car dealerships on Sunday according to law:
- Colorado
- Indiana
- Illinois
- Iowa
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Louisiana
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Wisconsin
These require a complete ban.
These states have no requirements for car dealership closure on Sunday:
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Nevada
- North Dakota
- Texas
- Rhode Island
- Utah
These, however, could limit hours to sell on a Sunday.
The rest of the states also do not have complete restrictions on selling on Sunday. However, they all have variations of the law that could lead to closure at any moment depending on the particular views of the state on Sunday sales.
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In What State Are Sunday Closures Most Strict?
When considering the question - why are car dealerships closed on Sundays - it’s helpful to know the state in which laws are most strict. In the case of Sunday closure, New Jersey takes the cake for becoming the most restrictive state on Sundays. While there aren’t other restrictions on shopping, there are laws against selling someone a car.
Of course, like most other states, various counties across New Jersey are acting to change the laws to open up the opportunity for car dealerships to sell on Sunday. However, many counties stick to the traditional rules for their reasons. One of the strictest counties for this regulation in New Jersey is Bergen County - which also has several shopping malls.
Final Thoughts
So - why are car dealerships closed on Sundays? The most common reason for closure on Sundays is Blue Laws, but a dealership might also refrain from selling vehicles thanks to a choice to provide employees with a day off or the fact that banks are closed on Sunday.
We hope this information is helpful as you check out your local dealership for a new vehicle. Although it can be frustrating to see many locations closed on Sunday, there is a rationale behind the decision. If you want a car on a Sunday, check out the restrictions in your state before making the trip.
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