Buying a car can be an exciting experience, but timing your purchase wisely can make a big difference in terms of savings. Understanding the best time of year to buy a car can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, whether you’re shopping for a brand-new model or looking for a reliable used vehicle. From end-of-year sales events to holiday deals, let’s dive into when you should plan your next car purchase to get the best deal.
If you’re in the market for a great deal, explore some of the best used vehicles, where you’ll find options that provide both value and reliability.
End of the Year (October-December)
The last three months of the year—especially December—are prime months to purchase a car. Car dealerships are eager to clear out inventory to make room for next year’s models, so they’re often willing to negotiate and offer steep discounts. Additionally, many dealerships are trying to hit their year-end sales goals, which means they’ll be more motivated to sell cars at lower prices to boost their numbers.
December is particularly great because sales staff are incentivized to sell as many vehicles as possible, and you’ll likely see promotions like “end-of-year blowout” sales. If you’re flexible with what model or year you’re looking for, the last days of December offer some of the most significant savings.
End of the Month
Dealerships usually have monthly sales quotas, and toward the end of the month, salespeople are more motivated to close deals in order to meet their targets. As a result, you can often negotiate a better price during the last few days of the month. Additionally, the pressure to hit their numbers means that salespeople are more likely to throw in additional incentives or perks, such as free accessories or extended warranties.
However, it’s important to go in with a clear idea of what you’re willing to spend. Just because you’re being offered a discount doesn’t mean you should stretch your budget beyond what’s comfortable. Be prepared to walk away if the deal doesn’t work for you.
Holidays and Special Sales Events
Certain holidays are known for major sales, making them excellent times to buy a car. Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Black Friday, and New Year’s Eve are some of the top holidays for car deals. Dealerships roll out special promotions, low-interest financing, and cashback incentives to attract buyers.
For example, Black Friday is increasingly becoming one of the busiest shopping days for cars, not just electronics and home goods. Many dealerships take advantage of the shopping frenzy by offering unbeatable deals on both new and used vehicles. If you time it right, you could walk away with a fantastic deal.
Holiday sales events also tend to coincide with the end-of-year discounts, making November and December particularly lucrative for buyers.
New Model Releases (Late Summer and Early Fall)
Each year, car manufacturers roll out new models, usually between August and October. When these new models arrive, dealerships are eager to sell off last year’s models to make space for the newer inventory. This is when you can score deals on a brand-new vehicle that’s still part of the previous model year but just as reliable and modern.
Keep in mind that while the new model may have updated features or improved performance, the previous year’s model is often still an excellent option. The price difference between the current model and last year’s version could be substantial, making it worthwhile to consider an “older” new car.
Slow Sales Periods (Winter)
Winter months, specifically January and February, tend to be slow for car dealerships. The holiday rush has ended, and fewer people are looking to buy cars during these colder months. As a result, dealerships may offer more aggressive deals to attract buyers and move inventory. Additionally, if you live in an area with harsh winters, all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles may be in higher demand, so it’s a great time to look for deals on sedans or smaller cars that dealerships are more motivated to sell.
Another factor is that fewer people are willing to go through the hassle of buying a car when the weather is less than ideal. So, if you’re willing to brave the cold, you may find yourself in a better position to negotiate.
Best Time of the Week
Surprisingly, the day of the week can also play a role in securing the best price. Weekends are generally busier for dealerships, meaning you might have less negotiating power since there are more buyers. On the other hand, visiting the dealership on a Monday or Tuesday, when foot traffic is slower, could work in your favor. Salespeople will have more time to spend with you, and they may be more willing to cut a deal to make a sale early in the week.
Conclusion
Timing your car purchase can lead to significant savings. Whether you’re taking advantage of end-of-year clearance events, holiday promotions, or simply shopping during slower periods, being aware of the best time to buy can make a substantial difference in how much you pay.
As you plan your purchase, remember to keep an eye out for the best used vehicles available in your area. Shopping smart and timing it right can help you secure a reliable car that fits both your needs and your budget.
If you’ve found the perfect car, don’t hesitate to book a test drive and experience it firsthand before making your final decision.