Most car dealerships are closed on Columbus Day. This federal holiday, observed on the second Monday of October, typically results in closures for major automotive brands. While some smaller, independent used car lots might remain open, you should not expect to visit a franchise dealership for a new car purchase or scheduled service on this day. The best course of action is to always call the specific dealership you plan to visit to confirm their hours.
The closure pattern is largely consistent because dealerships follow the schedules of their manufacturer brands. Brands like Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and Stellantis (Jeep, Ram, Chrysler) generally direct their franchised dealers to close on major holidays. This allows their employees to have the day off. Service departments are also closed, meaning you cannot drop off your car for maintenance.
If you were planning to shop on Columbus Day, a shift to online research is your most productive move. Use the holiday to:
- Build your shortlist: Compare models, trim levels, and standard features on manufacturer websites.
- Check inventory: Many dealership websites have real-time inventory checkers you can browse from home.
- Get pre-approved: Start the financing process with your bank or credit union to understand your budget.
For a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of typical Columbus Day operations for different dealership types:
| Dealership Type | Likely Open on Columbus Day? | Notes |
|---|
| New Car Franchise Dealers (e.g., Toyota, Ford, Honda) | Almost Always Closed | Follow manufacturer holiday schedules. Sales, service, and parts departments closed. |
| Large Auto Dealer Groups (e.g., AutoNation, Penske) | Typically Closed | Operate multiple franchises and generally adhere to standard holiday closures. |
| Independent Used Car Lots | May Be Open | Smaller businesses have more flexibility; hours can vary widely. Calling ahead is essential. |
| Luxury Brand Dealers (e.g., Mercedes-Benz, BMW) | Almost Always Closed | Similar to mainstream brands, these franchises also close for the holiday. |
| Service & Parts Departments | Almost Always Closed | No maintenance, repairs, or part sales are available at franchise dealers on this day. |
