Car Dealership Hours: Need to Know Before Visiting

Car Dealership Hours: Need to Know Before Visiting When planning to visit a car dealership, knowing their operating hours is essential to avoid unnecessary trips and ensure you get the service you need. Dealership hours vary depending on location, day of the week, and dealership policies. Some are open late to accommodate working customers, while others have limited weekend hours.

This article provides a detailed guide on car dealership hours, factors affecting them, and the best times to visit for a smooth car-buying experience.

Car Dealership Hours: General Opening and Closing Times

Most car dealerships operate during standard business hours, typically:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed or limited hours (12:00 PM – 5:00 PM in some states)

However, these hours can vary based on the dealership’s location and whether it is a franchise or an independent business. Luxury dealerships, for example, may have different schedules than economy car dealers.

Variations in Car Dealership Hours

1. Franchise vs. Independent Dealerships

• Franchise dealerships (affiliated with brands like Toyota, Ford, or BMW) typically follow a more standardized schedule and are open longer.
• Independent dealerships may have shorter hours or even different weekly schedules.

2. State Laws and Regulations

• Some states restrict car sales on Sundays. For example, in states like Indiana and Colorado, car dealerships cannot operate on Sundays due to “Blue Laws.”
• Other states allow sales but may limit the service department’s hours.

3. Urban vs. Rural Dealerships

• Dealerships in large cities often have extended hours to accommodate busy professionals.
• Rural dealerships might close earlier due to lower customer traffic.

4. Holiday Hours

• Many dealerships close on major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
• Some may operate on reduced hours during holidays like Memorial Day or Independence Day.

Best Times to Visit a Car Dealership

1. Weekday Mornings: Ideal for One-on-One Attention

If you want personalized service with minimal waiting time, visiting on a weekday morning (between 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) is the best option. Salespeople are less busy and can provide detailed assistance.

2. Late Afternoon: Good for Negotiations

By late afternoon, salespeople may be more willing to negotiate prices, especially if they haven’t met their daily targets.

3. Weekends: High Traffic, But More Options

Saturdays are the busiest days for car dealerships. While you’ll find more sales staff available, expect longer wait times and limited negotiation flexibility.

4. End of the Month: Best for Deals

Dealerships often have monthly quotas. Visiting at the end of the month may increase your chances of getting better discounts as salespeople strive to meet their goals.

5. End of the Year: Best for Discounts

December is an excellent time to buy a car due to year-end clearance sales. Dealerships offer significant discounts to clear inventory for new models.

How to Check Car Dealership Hours Before Visiting

1. Visit the Dealership’s Website

Most dealerships display their hours on their official website, often under the “Contact Us” or “About Us” sections.

2. Use Google Business Listings

Searching for a dealership on Google Maps will show their hours, customer reviews, and peak visiting times.

3. Call the Dealership Directly

If you’re unsure about holiday hours or special promotions, calling the dealership is the most reliable way to confirm their schedule.

4. Check Social Media Updates

Many dealerships post updates about changes in hours, special events, or holiday schedules on their Facebook or Twitter pages.

10 Tips for Visiting a Car Dealership at the Right Time

1. Call ahead to confirm business hours. Schedules can change unexpectedly.
2. Avoid weekends if you want personalized attention. Saturdays are the busiest days.
3. Visit in the morning for faster service. Salespeople are more available.
4. Plan your visit at the end of the month for better deals. Sales quotas can lead to more discounts.
5. Check for holiday hours. Some dealerships close or have reduced hours on holidays.
6. Look for online appointment scheduling. Some dealers allow you to book a visit to reduce wait time.
7. Visit during promotions. Special events may offer extended hours and better deals.
8. Consider weather conditions. Bad weather often means fewer customers and better deals.
9. Go on a weekday for test drives. Roads are less crowded, making test drives easier.
10. Follow the dealership on social media. Get updates on special opening hours and promotions.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Car Dealership Hours

1. Are car dealerships open on Sundays?

It depends on state laws. Some states prohibit Sunday car sales, while others allow limited hours.

2. What is the best time to visit a car dealership?

Weekday mornings (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) offer the best service, while the end of the month is best for discounts.

3. Are car dealerships open on holidays?

Most dealerships close on major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, but some remain open for holiday sales.

4. Can I buy a car after hours?

No, but some dealerships offer online applications and reservations outside business hours.

5. Do dealership service centers have the same hours as sales departments?

Not always. Many service centers close earlier than sales departments.

6. How can I find out if a dealership is open?

Check their website, Google Maps, or call them directly.

7. Are luxury car dealerships open later?

Some high-end dealerships extend their hours to accommodate busy professionals.

8. Can I schedule a test drive outside regular hours?

Some dealerships may allow this by appointment, but it depends on their policies.

9. Do online dealerships have operating hours?

Online dealerships like Carvana operate 24/7, but customer service has specific hours.

10. Can I negotiate car prices at any time?

Yes, but your chances of getting a better deal increase at the end of the month or year.

Conclusion

Understanding car dealership hours can save you time and improve your car-buying experience. While most dealerships follow standard business hours, factors like location, state laws, and holidays can affect their schedules.

By visiting at the right time—such as weekday mornings or end-of-month sales—you can enjoy better service and potential discounts. Always check a dealership’s website, Google listing, or call ahead to confirm their hours before making a trip.