Staff report

February’s freeze tempered the vehicle-buying experience in Northeast Ohio, according to the latest figures released Monday by the Greater Cleveland Automobile Dealers’ Association.

Locally, Boardman Subaru topped last month’s new and used car sales with 135 and 96, respectively.

“Severe weather through much of February made retail sales difficult,” Louis A. Vitantonio, association president, said.

“However, as February came to a close along with the Cleveland Auto Show, dealerships saw a significant increase in foot traffic, which should help March sales.”

The association, which represents 21 counties, including Trumbull and Mahoning, reported 15,080 new vehicle registrations last month compared to 15,605 in February 2024. This year, 34,522 new cars, trucks and SUVs were sold, up from 33,972 last year.

Joining Boardman Subaru for triple-digit new car sales in February were Greenwood Chevrolet (110) and #1 Cochran Chevrolet (103). Compared to last year, Greenwood saw a 32-vehicle sale increase, while Boardman Subaru (minus 17) and (minus 67) posted losses in comparison.

Used vehicle sales struggled regionally, with 14,940 sales in February, off 15.14% compared to the same month last year and down by 9.03% year over year.

The top three in Valley used car sales were Boardman Subaru (96), Greenwood Chevrolet (90) and #1 Cochran Buick GMC (60).

Chevrolet drove the market last month as it claimed 2,252 new vehicle sales among the 21 counties. It was followed by Ford (1,734), Honda (1,301), Kia (1,201) and Toyota (1,174).

On the other end of new sales, one Rolls-Royce, two Bentleys and two Western Star trucks were purchased in February.