Retail Sales: Building Materials and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers
Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted
MRTSMPCSM444USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-6.30
Year-over-Year Change
-37.00%
Date Range
2/1/1992 - 6/1/2025
Summary
This economic trend measures the percent change in retail sales of motor vehicle and parts dealers in the United States, without seasonal adjustments. It provides insight into the health and fluctuations of the automotive retail sector.
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, Not Seasonally Adjusted' series for motor vehicle and parts dealers captures the month-over-month changes in retail sales for this industry. It is a key indicator of consumer demand and economic conditions in the automotive market.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use this trend to assess the strength of consumer spending and the broader economy.
Key Facts
- Motor vehicle and parts dealers make up about 20% of total U.S. retail sales.
- This trend experienced a sharp decline during the 2008-2009 recession.
- Year-over-year changes in this series can signal broader economic trends.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: This trend measures the month-over-month percent change in retail sales for motor vehicle and parts dealers in the United States, without seasonal adjustments.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This trend provides insight into consumer demand and spending patterns in the automotive industry, which is a key sector of the U.S. economy.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of U.S. retail businesses.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use this trend to assess the strength of consumer spending and the broader economy, which can inform economic policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is released monthly with a short lag, and the not seasonally adjusted nature of the series can lead to more volatility compared to seasonally adjusted measures.
Related Trends
Retail Inventories/Sales Ratio: Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronics, and Appliance Stores
MRTSIR4423XUSS
Retail Sales: Clothing and Clothing Accessory Stores
MRTSSM448USN
Retail Sales: Hobby, Toy, and Game Stores
MRTSSM45112USN
Retail Sales: Furniture, Home Furnishings, Electronics, and Appliance Stores
MRTSSM4423XUSS
Monthly State Retail Sales: Gasoline Stations in the United States
MSRSUSA447
Retail Sales: General Merchandise Stores, Including Warehouse Clubs & Supercenters
SM4523USN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Percent Change from Preceding Period, Not Seasonally Adjusted (MRTSMPCSM444USN), retrieved from FRED.