Retail Sales: Automobile Dealers
MRTSSM4411USN • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
123,219.00
Year-over-Year Change
2.26%
Date Range
1/1/1992 - 5/1/2025
Summary
The Retail Sales: Automobile Dealers trend measures monthly sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers, providing insights into consumer demand for automobiles and the overall health of the 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
This indicator is a key measure of consumer spending and economic activity, as automobile sales account for a significant portion of overall retail sales. It is closely watched by economists, policymakers, and market analysts to assess the strength of the consumer economy.
Methodology
The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of motor vehicle and parts dealers across the United States.
Historical Context
Retail sales, including automobile dealer sales, are a key input into GDP calculations 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.
- Automobile sales are a leading indicator of consumer confidence and economic health.
- Retail sales data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Retail Sales: Automobile Dealers trend measures monthly sales at motor vehicle and parts dealers across the United States.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: This indicator provides insights into consumer demand for automobiles and the overall health of the retail sector, which is a key driver of economic growth.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is collected through monthly surveys of a sample of motor vehicle and parts dealers across the United States.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Retail sales, including automobile dealer sales, are a key input into GDP calculations and can influence Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The Retail Sales: Automobile Dealers data is released monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau, with a short delay between the end of the reference period and the publication of the data.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Retail Sales: Automobile Dealers (MRTSSM4411USN), retrieved from FRED.