Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham

STATE News:

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has authorized automobile sales by small dealers on an appointment basis utilizing strict social distancing practices during the COVID-19 Stay at Home Order.

Additionally, online/Internet sales by all licensed New Mexico motor vehicle dealers are allowed.

“This is great news for New Mexicans,” said Marc Powell, CEO of the New Mexico Independent Automobile Dealers Association. “New Mexico’s transportation system is built around the automobile. There are more than 1,000 small independent car dealers in every city and town in New Mexico. And the majority of cars bought and sold in New Mexico are by these small dealers.”

The new rules:

• The customer and licensed automobile dealer must communicate about the vehicle over Internet, phone or text;
• No more than one appointment at the dealership at a time, with no more than two clients at each appointment;
• All parties must follow strict 10-foot social distancing;
• At the agreed time the dealer alone will greet clients. Clients may not enter the dealership alone or come into contact with any other dealership employees;
• Vehicles must be thoroughly disinfected before and after any test drive;
• Each appointment allows for test drives of two vehicles; and
  
• All paperwork including closing will take place outside, with clients either in a vehicle or outside.

“It’s virtually impossible to buy a car that costs $10,000 or less without a test drive due to the age and condition of the vehicles,” Powell said. “Many people aren’t aware that the average New Mexico vehicle is almost 14 years old – meaning many are due to be replaced. Additionally, private vehicles are needed for essential workers, especially first responders whose vehicles may have been stolen, totaled in an accident or cannot be repaired.

“All New Mexico dealers applaud Gov. Lujan Grisham’s rapid action to protect New Mexico from the worst effects of this pandemic. We support all efforts to limit the spread while also serving our communities with safe, reliable transportation options,” Powell said.