Are Car Dealerships Open on Sunday in Colorado?

Wondering if car dealerships open on Sunday in Colorado? If you’re in Colorado and thinking about car shopping on a Sunday, you might be wondering, “Are car dealerships even open?” While Sunday might seem like the perfect time to browse for a new ride or finalize a purchase, Colorado has some unique laws that could impact your plans. Let’s break down why car dealerships in Colorado are usually closed on Sundays, and what your options are.

The Blue Laws: A Quick History Lesson

Before we dive into the current situation in Colorado, it’s worth understanding the background of so-called Blue Laws—the legal force behind the Sunday dealership closures. These laws were originally created to encourage religious observance on Sundays and to restrict certain activities like drinking, shopping, and yes, even buying a car.

In many states, these laws have either been repealed or modified, but in Colorado, a remnant of the Blue Laws still lingers. Colorado Revised Statutes § 12-6-302 explicitly prohibits car dealerships from conducting business on Sundays, a regulation that has been in place for decades. This law affects both new and used car dealerships and applies across the entire state.

Why Are Dealerships Closed on Sundays?

The legal restriction on Sunday car sales in Colorado primarily stems from historical reasons. It was designed to give dealership owners, employees, and even customers a day off—usually for rest or religious reasons. Today, while the religious aspect has faded, the law remains on the books, and car dealerships still close their doors on Sundays.

Here’s a breakdown of why dealerships in Colorado stay closed:

1. Legal Restrictions: The state law prohibits dealers from selling cars on Sundays. Any dealership that violates this law can face significant penalties, including fines and the suspension of their license.
2. Day of Rest: Many dealership owners actually prefer the rule because it allows them and their employees to take a day off without losing business to competitors.
3. Market Stability: With all dealerships closing on Sundays, no single business gains a competitive edge, ensuring a level playing field for all dealerships in the state.

What About Car Shopping Online?

If you’re used to the convenience of online shopping for almost everything, you might wonder if you can bypass the Sunday restrictions by going digital. The answer is: sort of. Most dealerships in Colorado do have an online presence where you can browse inventory, compare prices, and even start the process of buying a vehicle.

However, you won’t be able to finalize a purchase or take delivery on a Sunday. While some steps can be done online (like submitting a loan application), the actual paperwork and delivery still need to happen during regular business hours.

A Typical Week for Dealerships

For those planning a car shopping trip, it’s essential to understand the general schedule most dealerships follow in Colorado. While Sundays are off-limits, dealerships tend to have extended hours on other days, often staying open until late in the evening to accommodate buyers.

• Monday through Saturday: Dealerships are generally open, with most staying open until at least 7 or 8 p.m.
• Sunday: Completely closed. No sales, no service appointments, no exceptions.

That means if you’re thinking of heading to a dealership, Saturday is your last chance for weekend car shopping.

Can You Still Visit a Dealership on Sunday?

Technically, yes, you can visit a dealership on a Sunday—but don’t expect to drive away in a new car. You can walk around the lot, peek through the windows, and see what’s available. Some dealerships may even allow you to browse the vehicles in person, but sales staff won’t be around to assist, and you won’t be able to complete any purchases until the following business day.

Alternatives for Car Shopping on Sunday

If Sunday is your only free day, and you’re itching to shop for a car, here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Browse Online Inventory: Many dealerships offer virtual showrooms where you can compare models, check out detailed specifications, and even calculate financing. This way, you can hit the ground running when you visit the dealership in person during the week.
2. Test Drive During the Week: If your work schedule is flexible, consider setting up a test drive during a weekday. Many dealerships have extended hours to accommodate customers with busy schedules, so it’s worth exploring options that fit around your availability.
3. Attend Weekend Car Shows: Occasionally, car manufacturers or dealerships host car shows or other events where you can see the latest models and even test drive them. While sales won’t be made on a Sunday, it’s a great opportunity to explore different options.

What Other States Have Similar Laws?

Colorado isn’t the only state where car dealerships are restricted from opening on Sundays. States like Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania also have varying forms of these Blue Laws in place. In some states, the law only applies to specific counties, while others, like Colorado, impose a statewide restriction. Each state has its own nuances, so if you plan on moving or are traveling out of state to purchase a car, it’s worth double-checking local laws beforehand.

What’s the Future of the Law?

While some states have gradually repealed their Blue Laws or eased restrictions, Colorado’s ban on Sunday car sales has remained relatively unchanged. There has been occasional debate in the Colorado legislature about overturning the law, but so far, the status quo remains. Given that many dealership owners appreciate having Sundays off, and the system works fairly well for the industry as a whole, it’s unlikely that we’ll see a significant change anytime soon.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to buy a car in Colorado, it’s important to keep Sunday closures in mind. Whether you’re looking for a new SUV, a reliable commuter, or a fun weekend convertible, make sure to plan your dealership visits for Monday through Saturday. While you can research and browse inventory online on a Sunday, actual transactions and test drives will have to wait.

So, is it inconvenient? Maybe a little. But with the proper planning, buying a car in Colorado is still a straightforward process—just don’t expect to seal the deal on a Sunday.

Reference:

1. Colorado Car Dealership Law: You can find the law that explains why dealerships are closed on Sundays in Colorado under Colorado Revised Statutes § 12-6-302.

• Colorado General Assembly

2. Blue Laws Overview: Websites like Wikipedia offer a general overview of Blue Laws and their history, including how they impact car dealership.

• Wikipedia on Blue Law