Advance Retail Sales: Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted
MARTSMPCSM441USS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
1.60
Year-over-Year Change
-54.29%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 7/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the monthly percent change in retail sales for motor vehicle and parts dealers, seasonally adjusted. It provides timely insights into consumer spending and the overall health of the U.S. economy.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The 'Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted' metric for motor vehicle and parts dealers offers a reliable gauge of consumer demand and broader economic activity. This data series is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to understand current and future economic trends.
Methodology
The U.S. Census Bureau collects and calculates this data through monthly surveys of retail establishments.
Historical Context
Retail sales figures are a key input for assessing the state of the U.S. economy and can influence Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions.
Key Facts
- Motor vehicle and parts dealers account for over 20% of total U.S. retail sales.
- This metric has shown steady recovery since the COVID-19 pandemic downturn.
- Volatile month-to-month changes in this data series are common.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This metric measures the monthly percent change in retail sales for motor vehicle and parts dealers, seasonally adjusted.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: Motor vehicle sales are a key indicator of consumer spending and broader economic health, making this data series closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of retail establishments.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales figures, including this motor vehicle and parts dealers metric, are a key input for assessing the state of the U.S. economy and can influence Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: This data series is published monthly, with a typical 2-week delay from the end of the reference period.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Seasonally Adjusted (MARTSMPCSM441USS), retrieved from FRED.