The Best Time to Buy a New Car in 2025 (Expert Guide)
Knowing when is the best time to buy a new car helps unlock $7,500 off MSRP through dealer quotas. This page guides you to buy a new car smarter by timing weekday savings of 8.1 percent and seizing holiday discounts reaching up to 20 percent on select vehicles.
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Travis Thompson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Travis Thompson has been a licensed insurance agent for nearly five years. After obtaining his life and health insurance licenses, he began working for Symmetry Financial Group as a State Licensed Field Underwriter. In this position, he learned the coverage options and limits surrounding mortgage protection. He advised clients on the coverage needed to protect them in the event of a death, critica...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Jul 25, 2025
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UPDATED: Jul 25, 2025
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right legal decisions.
We strive to help you make confident insurance and legal decisions. Finding trusted and reliable insurance quotes should be easy. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
On This Page
The best time to buy a new car helps budget-minded drivers take advantage of dealer incentives that are timed to coincide with demand.
Shoppers can save through weekday programs offering up to 8.1 percent off MSRP and holiday deals reaching 20 percent on select models. Discover how to buy auto insurance alongside the best time to get a new car.
Using tools like CarFax, Edmunds, and iSeeCars helps buyers check histories, compare prices, and avoid risks such as liens or flood damage. Early-month visits and off-season shopping often unlock exclusive discounts tied to dealer quotas and inventory goals.
- The best time to buy a new car uses quotas for 8% weekday deals
- Trade-ins after holiday sales unlock discounts on certified used cars
- High credit needed to access 0% APR at dealer holiday sales events
Find the best time to buy a new car by entering your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool and instantly see exclusive discounts available near you today.
When Is the Best Time to Buy a New Car
The best time to purchase a new car depends on the kind of vehicle and the timing related to demand. Sedans and luxury cars often offer significant discounts in late December, while SUVs and hybrids tend to decrease in price from October to the end of the year. Discover the best car insurance companies while shopping during holiday car sales.
Best Time to Buy a Car: By Vehicle & Savings
Vehicle Type | Best Time | Reasons | Savings | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Sedan | October–December | Year-end clearance incentives | 10% | Off MSRP; inventory push |
SUV | October–December | Outgoing model discounts | 10% | Dealers clearing space for next year’s line |
Truck | September | Dealership truck month promotions | 8% | Incentives tied to manufacturer campaigns |
Convertible | January–February | Off-season markdowns | 12% | Low winter demand |
Hybrid/Electric | October–December | Federal/state rebates + dealer markdowns | 6% | Year-end eco-incentives |
Luxury Vehicle | October–December | Dealer quotas + end-of-year sales push | 13% | December 26–31 is peak time |
Minivan | August–October | Back-to-school specials | 8% | Timed with family vehicle demand |
Sports Car | November | Demand drops pre-winter | 9% | Best dealer leverage late fall |
Trucks are less expensive in September due to truck month promotions, and convertibles are cheaper during the winter. Minivans often offer discounts before the start of the school year, and sports cars become more affordable in late fall when demand decreases. Knowing these dates helps buyers save thousands of dollars.
The Best Time to Save Big Is at the Dealership
When is the best time to buy a car from a dealership? The best time to save a lot is at the dealership when their sales goals and inventory needs align. Weekdays, for example, Mondays, can bring average savings because fewer people visit them, and dealers want to sell more cars.
Events at the end of the year, particularly in December, lead to even higher discounts, mainly on luxury cars and sedans, as dealers strive to meet quotas and clear out older models. People who shop during these times can save a lot of money with confidence.
A Reason to Love Mondays: Cheaper Cars
One reason to like Mondays is that car prices often decrease because dealerships want to start the week with sales. Data from TrueCar shows that buyers can save around 8.1 percent off MSRP if they shop on Mondays, compared to higher prices during the weekend.
Fewer customers also mean more focused service and greater opportunities to discuss deals. Going early in the week allows buyers to benefit from less-busy showrooms and discounts related to sales targets, all without the crowded competition.
That means if you walk in with a set limit of $25,000 to spend on a car, you could snag one worth $27,000 and still come in slightly under your budget (or only pay $22,975 for a car that costs $25,000, as you originally planned to buy). See the best auto insurance for Hondas while taking advantage of Monday deals.
Cars Cost Less on Weekdays Than Weekends
While Mondays are the best days for savings, the report from TrueCar shows you can still get pretty comparable prices throughout the rest of the weekdays.
For instance, shopping on a Thursday can net you an 8.08% discount on a car. No, that’s not a significant difference from Monday’s savings. But it’s still a big enough discount that you could potentially buy a $32,000 vehicle on a $30,000 budget.
Here’s how the different weekdays break down, savings-wise:
- Monday: 8.1%
- Tuesday: 8.05%
- Wednesday: 8.07%
- Thursday: 8.08%
- Friday: 8.06%
Sure, there’s not much variation between the different days of the week. Though when buying something as expensive as a vehicle, pinching every penny pays off in the end.
Shop at the Start of a Month for Better Deals
Shopping at the beginning of the month often gives better deals because dealers start new quotas and sales teams want to gain momentum. Data from iSeeCars shows 8.5 percent more deals happen on the first day compared to only 5.6 percent on the last day of the month.
This start-of-the-month effort gives buyers more leverage to negotiate, as dealerships strive to meet new monthly targets. Using this timing can help get a lower price and better terms. Discover hacks to save money on auto insurance while shopping early each month.
The Best Holidays for Car Shopping
Holiday sales events provide buyers with excellent opportunities to save a substantial amount of money on new cars. This is because dealers have quotas and need to clear out inventory at the end of the year.
These important dates often offer some of the biggest discounts, as dealerships strive to meet their monthly and yearly goals. Planning your purchase around these holidays helps shoppers save more money and have a wider selection of cars to choose from.
- Black Friday: Dealers cut prices by up to 20% on select models to attract buyers at the end of the year and clear stock quickly before December quotas resume.
- Memorial Day: It’s a great time for buying because dealerships want to clear out older cars before new models arrive in the fall. They give nice deals on sedans, SUVs, and minivans during this period.
- Christmas to New Year’s: This is the last major sales effort of the year, with extra cash bonuses and significant discounts, as dealers aim to reach or exceed their yearly sales goals.
Shopping during these holidays offers buyers a unique opportunity to benefit from dealers’ eagerness, secure special discounts, and drive away with exceptional value on their next car.
Get Big Deals by Buying at the Right Time
Whether you’re planning on getting a car this week or this year, shopping during the times with the biggest savings can help you get a great car at a great price.
That may mean that you end up waiting a few days or a few months before buying the vehicle you’ve been waiting for. Still, hitting the dealership at the right time can mean potentially saving thousands of dollars. Find the best auto insurance for Acuras while getting big deals at the right time.
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Worst Times for Buying a Car at a Dealership
Buying a car is expensive enough as it is. There’s no need to spend more than necessary on a pricey purchase. By staying away from the times when prices rise or deals become scarce, you can find your next ride without breaking the bank. Find the worst states for filing auto insurance claims when skipping overpriced dealership days.
Weekends: The Worst Time to Buy a Car
Remember that analysis from TrueCar in part one, pointing out that cars cost a bit less on weekdays? Well, that means weekends aren’t your friend when it comes to hunting for deals on autos. Cars are available on Saturdays for 7.77% off MSRP, while Sundays tend to be the worst days, with savings usually reaching only 7.49%.
Sure, that’s less than a 1% difference from Monday’s 8.1% usual discount. This variance in the usual savings for each day means you might pay $183 more for a $30,000 car on a Sunday than on a Monday. That means staying away from shopping on weekends could save you the equivalent of a few tanks of gas for your newly purchased car.
Discounts either in the Summer
Car deals don’t heat up during the summer months. August typically marks the arrival of new models in high demand at the dealership, and their popularity among buyers means their prices will remain stable for an extended period.
AutoTrader provides a great example of why the cost of cars and temperatures usually rise together at this time:
Essentially, high demand removes new car deals from the dealership. If you’re determined to own the latest model, wait a few months until the initial consumer rush subsides, and you’ll have more room to negotiate with the salespeople.
Wait Long Enough Until a New Car Has Been Reviewed
Buying a new model too soon risks overpaying and getting stuck with a poorly reviewed car, as seen with the 2016 Acura ILX, which had the highest regret rate, according to Consumer Reports.
Edmunds also warns that fuel-efficient car prices spike when gas prices rise, while SUV prices jump when gas prices drop. Waiting for reviews and avoiding peak demand periods can help you skip costly mistakes and save more on a car you’ll actually enjoy driving.
Purchasing a Car From a Private Seller at Strategic Moments
Buying a car from a private seller instead of a dealership can save you big bucks. The average Joe doesn’t pay for reconditioning, advertising, or hiring a salesperson when selling their car, usually passing the savings on to you, according to J.D. Power. If you wait for the best time before buying a car from a private seller, you can often get a significantly lower price than if you go through a dealership.
Learn more: Ways You’re Wasting Money on Your Car
Why People Sell Cars and When to Buy a Car
Deals on cars from private sellers don’t follow the same schedule as dealerships. People sell cars based on personal events happening in their lives. They may move into a city with better public transportation and no longer need their vehicle, or need extra money for purchasing a new house. Find the best auto insurance for Infinitis when understanding why sellers list at key times.
The specialists in private car sales over at Instamotors compiled a comprehensive list of why people sell their cars. Here’s a rundown of what motivates folks to put their vehicle on the market, and how you can take advantage and save big.
As Kids Come In, Cars Go Out
20.3% of sellers get rid of their cars due to the needs of their growing families. That may mean ditching their Dodge Charger for a car with safety features that could better protect a new addition to a family, or swapping out an otherwise sensible sedan for an SUV with more seating. If you’re not in the market for a vehicle that can haul kids around, searching out cars sold by new parents can net you a great deal.
When to shop: The number crunchers par excellence of Statistic Brain found that most babies were born in August. Try searching around that month for deals suitable for growing families.
Listing an Old Vehicle After Buying a New One
People listing their cars for sale after buying a new one make up 14.7% of the private seller market. If you’re not hunting for the newest models available, these previously owned cars can be found at a nice price.
Owners dump vehicles approaching major service milestones to save money. For example, 60k miles triggers many quick sales each year.
Melanie Musson Published Insurance Expert
When to shop: Remember, the best times to buy a car are holidays like Black Friday, Memorial Day, and the end of the year. Folks who purchase their new automobiles will then be looking to move their old ones. Check around a few weeks after these dealership discount times to find a good price on a car listed for sale by its owner.
Moving Out and Moving on From Their Ride
13.8% of sellers start taking offers because they plan on moving. Perhaps they plan to use public transportation in a new city or simply won’t have enough garage space for their car. Either way, this presents a great chance for you to relocate their old automobile into your driveway.
When to shop: My Moving Reviews analyzed industry trends and found that more people move during June, July, and August than any other time. Look for cars listed by people about to pack up their houses – they’ll be motivated to get rid of their cars before getting on the road.
Selling Cars Out of a Need for Cash
Sometimes life throws a curveball, and folks need money right at that moment. 11.8% of people put their cars up for sale when they can no longer afford the payments or insurance, want to save more money, or need cash for large purchases, such as buying a house. 5.5% of sellers state that reasons, including divorce or family death, prompt them to sell their cars.
When to shop: This isn’t so much a question of when to shop as it is how to shop. AutoTempest recommends going online to find these kinds of motivated sellers, and searching Craigslist, Cars.com, and other websites for keywords indicating these situations, like:
- Divorce
- Pay rent
- Mortgage
- Must sell
- Afford
Granted, this tip might leave you feeling like a car-buying vulture, profiting off of someone else’s pain. If you make the seller a fair offer, though, you can pay them the necessary cash to help them through their difficult situation, and you can get a new car at an affordable price.
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Avoid the Worst Times to Buy From Private Sellers
Just like the best times for buying a car from a private seller can be unpredictable, so can the worst times. That can add an extra degree of difficulty when shopping for a good deal outside of the dealership. Let us help you remember when the best and worst times to buy a car are.
By knowing these times when you’re at greater risk of paying more or ending up with a lemon on your hands, you can make sure your car shopping ends in success. Alternatively, you can also make these challenging times for buying a car more manageable by knowing a few key tips and tricks.
Car Shopping After a Flood Can Leave You Underwater
Low-priced listings after floods may often conceal water damage that can corrode wiring and compromise critical systems over time. Always conduct a thorough check by inspecting for a salvage title, checking for mildew by smell, and searching for mud in hidden areas, such as under panels or inside the trunk.
Before buying, have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle. If the seller is honest about the flood history and the car passes the mechanical check, consider reducing the price by 25% plus approximately $2,000 to cover possible repairs, ensuring you pay a fair amount.
If you happen upon your dream car and its owner tells you up front that the car went through a flood, don’t lose hope yet. CarBuyingTips.com offers some great advice on pricing a flooded car by using this formula: Market Value – 25% Flood Depreciation – $2,000 Future Repairs = Right Price.
The site explains its reasoning behind the formula below.
“Suppose a used Lexus you want to buy is worth $15,000, a flooded one should be 25% less, then another $2,000 lower to allow for repairs. That flooded Lexus should sell for $15,000 – $3,750 -$2,000 = $9,250.”
In other words, if your mechanic says a flooded car is in decent shape, you would save around 38% on the sticker price of that $15,000 car described in the example above. Even after factoring in the $2,000 in potential repairs for the water-damaged ride, paying $11,250 over time still results in a substantial 25% discount.
Watch Out for Recalled Cars
Unlike dealers, private sellers can legally sell cars with unresolved, potentially dangerous recalls. It is essential to always check the VIN using CarFax or SaferCar.gov to determine if any repairs have been completed.
Cars left unattended for over six months usually have maintenance problems, which makes them a less desirable option. But if there is a recent recall, it can be used as a strong negotiating tool. You could discuss up to 5% off the price while planning to repair the issue yourself.
When Buying Cars, Don’t Lean On Me
It’s a classic story: If the seller has an outstanding loan, the lender places a lien on the car title. This gives them the legal right to reclaim the car if payments are stopped, even after the purchase has been made.
Many buyers who are unaware of this risk lose both their money and the car because they fail to check for a lien. Always ask to see the original title, ensure that no lienholder is mentioned, and verify its status with the DMV or a reliable service before completing your purchase.
Buying a car that has an existing lien can cause problems for you. You may not obtain legal ownership of the car, and there is a risk that it could be taken away from you.
A lien means the lender still has the right to the vehicle, which prevents it from being registered, insured, or sold until the debt is paid off. If you do not check and buy the car, the lender can legally repossess it from you. Always ensure the title is clear before paying to avoid losing your purchase due to a lienholder.
Here’s how you can avoid purchasing a car with a lien, or get the lien discharged if it’s a vehicle you can’t live without:
- Check and Clear Any Liens Before Buying: Liens on a car mean the lender still has the legal right, which can cause repossession. Always check the original title, not a copy, and make sure it’s clear by using CarFax or your state DMV’s lien search tool. Never trust sellers who hide or misrepresent lien details.
- Have the Seller Clear the Lien: The best choice is to allow the seller to clear the lien before selling. They may also convert it into a personal loan, so the car no longer serves as collateral. Only proceed once the title shows no lien holder.
- Pay Off the Lien Yourself: If you truly desire the car, you can pay off the lien directly and enter into a written agreement stating that the vehicle will be yours once the payment is complete. This method also helps in negotiating.
- Inspect Before Finalizing: Cars with liens are sometimes not properly maintained because owners believe they might lose them anyway. It is very important to have a mechanic check the car carefully before you buy it, so you know it can drive properly and is a good investment of your money.
By being careful and watching out for liens, you can avoid financial problems and potentially negotiate a better deal, ensuring you get a good car.
See if the Best Time to Buy a Car Is Now in Five Questions
So now you know all the best times for buying a new car – technically. However, if you’re driving around in a jalopy that constantly requires expensive repairs, prevents you from getting to work on time, or causes other unpleasant situations, the best time for buying a car might be this very second.
That means the best time for you to buy a car is determined by your specific situation, which involves knowing whether you just want a new car or can’t afford to wait to replace your current ride. Find that out by answering the following five questions.
Do you have new car envy?
When driving your car that has reached 50,000 miles, seeing shiny new cars can make you feel a bit jealous. However, Consumer Reports informs drivers that nowadays, most cars last well over 200,000 miles if properly maintained.
New cars typically lose around 46% of their value within three years, so upgrading may not be very rewarding in the long run. Exchanging a dependable $20,000 car for a $40,000 one often leads to the same regrets later, with little extra benefit. If you really need a new vehicle, consider buying it during major sales events, such as Black Friday, to save more money.
Do you yearn for heated seats, built-in navigation, and other premium features?
Again, this comes from the great Consumer Reports article. If you want those luxury items that let you switch radio stations using voice commands or keyless ignition, that’s still not a reason for breaking the bank getting a new car you can’t afford.
However, Consumer Reports suggests that upgrading your car can provide a taste of the luxury experience without purchasing a whole new vehicle. For instance, cars over five years old typically won’t come with stereos that allow you to jam out to your favorite Pandora station.
Instead of spending tens of thousands of dollars on a new car, consider replacing your current stereo with an aftermarket upgrade – the audiophiles at Crutchfield offer many options for under $100. Compared to taking out a huge loan to purchase a new car for this feature, taking your sound system or other possible enhancements into your own hands can save you a bundle.
Do car repairs cost more than your car is currently worth?
That’s the message Edmunds relays in this informative look into when you should buy a new car. He says, when trips to the auto shop start outweighing the value of your vehicle, it’s time to trade up.
Why? Because switching out those payments for parts and labor for a monthly car payment can actually save you money. For example, imagine you bought a 2008 Ford Focus from an elderly lady who only used the car to attend Sunday church.
It had 45,000 miles on it at the time and was in fair condition. But she didn’t maintain it. At all. Now you’re reaching the 60,000-mile mark.
Repairs exceeding trade-in price hurt long term. In particular, airbag system fixes can outweigh car replacement costs.
Michelle Robbins Licensed Insurance Agent
At this point, you know you may need a new timing belt soon. That costs between $350 and $460, as estimated by Tred, the fine purveyor of Seattle autos. Tires also play a role, along with brakes. Those additional expenses would probably put you at a grand and a half for repairs, if you’re lucky.
Your AC isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, no matter how much Freon you add to it, and you worry the compressor could fail at any moment. Fixing that might cost you up to $748, as Repair Pal reports. This could all add up to approximately $2,250, while Kelley Blue Book estimates that your car’s trade-in value averages around $2,197.
If you traded in your car now, you could prevent paying more than the value of your car in repairs. Any further fixes would only put you deeper and deeper into the hole, so you most likely need to get rid of it now and replace it with something more reliable.
Is your car constantly breaking down?
Every car breaks down occasionally. If you find that you have to perform regular car checks and that it’s constantly being hauled into the shop, your car needs to be replaced ASAP. That’s something Edmunds highlights in this helpful comparison on when to repair or replace your vehicle. This can cost you big time in the long term.
For example, say you had the awful combination of a constantly dying car and a demanding boss at a job offering a $40,000 annual salary. Now, say your supervisor gets mad and fires you for constantly coming in late to work due to your unreliable vehicle, and you spend three months job hunting before finding a similarly paying gig.
After a while, you save up enough for a down payment on a $20,000 car. However, that car really costs you $30,000 – $20,000 in its initial price, and $10,000 in lost wages for waiting too long before getting a new set of wheels.
Does your car have reliable safety features?
As we mentioned earlier, and as Experian reports, the average car loan costs $30,032. Now think about how the Centers for Disease Control estimates that the average cost for car crash-related emergency room visits comes out to $57,000 over a person’s lifetime.
They recommend getting a new car if your current one doesn’t have the following four safety features:
- Backup Camera: Knowing what’s happening around you at all times is a key part of being a safe driver. Backup cameras allow you to monitor the front and rear of the vehicle in a relatively seamless manner.
- Curtain Airbags: Regular airbag deployment from the steering wheel keeps you safe in a head-on collision. Curtain airbags activate in case you’re ever hit from the side, gaining their name from how they pop out from above your side windows, sort of like curtains.
- Electronic Stability Control: This system uses a computer that detects when your vehicle is about to skid and automatically helps you regain control of the car.
- Forward-Collision Warning: This monitors when a collision is in danger of occurring, and either warns the driver or automatically brakes or steers away in certain conditions.
If you drive a car without the latest safety features that can help prevent a trip to the emergency room, you run the risk of spending $26,968 ($57,000 – $30,032) more than if you had just taken out the average car loan and bought a vehicle with those life-saving capabilities. Getting life-saving gear on your vehicle comes straight from Consumer Reports.
Know When You Should Buy and When You Should Wait
If you’re just hankering for a new car and can buy it without going broke, you definitely should – just wait until the best times are covered in sections one and three before doing so, and save your cash. However, if you absolutely need a car right now, make sure you don’t put off that purchase. Waiting can cost you way more money over time than if you shelled out the cash as soon as possible.
Plan Your Car Purchase for the Best Time
Even if you shop at the best times for buying a car, everything can go awry if you don’t properly prepare for your purchase. Not planning to head into a dealership or meet with a private seller can leave you spending money you don’t have on a car that doesn’t meet your needs. By plotting out every step of your purchase, you can save time and money on getting your next car.
Make a Budget
The first step in preparing to buy a car is figuring out how much you can afford to spend. That goes beyond just the sticker price you’ll see at the dealership or on websites like Craigslist, where private sellers list their cars. You need to factor in maintenance, gas, and other expenses. WiseBread recommends designing a budget along the 20/4/10 rule. That means you plan for:
- Paying 20% of the total price as a down payment
- Finance the vehicle for no more than four years
- Keep total monthly vehicle expenses, such as payments and insurance, under 10% of your gross income
So, say you made $60,000 per year. If you wanted a $30,000 car, that means you should put down $6,000 as a down payment, pay off the remaining $24,000 over the next four years, and keep the cost of your payments and insurance below 10% of your gross income at less than $500 per month.
Know the Value of Your Trade-in
This tip comes from the aptly named blog Adequate Man, recommending that you check the value of the car you’ll be replacing. Here are some pointers on how much you’ll get by selling or trading in your vehicle:
- Use websites like NADA or Edmunds to get some estimates on how much someone might give you for your car. Remember, though, these prices may be higher or lower than the actual value of your car.
- Custom paint jobs, flashy rims, or other aftermarket modifications make your car harder to sell. If possible, return your car to its original state as closely as possible.
- Every crash your vehicle has ever been in will show up on a CarFax report, so keep track. Whether you get in a minor accident or a major head-on collision, a wreck will knock a few digits off your car’s value.
Knowing the value of your trade-in helps you make realistic plans and negotiate more effectively. With precise estimates and a vehicle in good condition, you can increase its value and secure the best deal when buying your next car.
Pick the Car That’s Right for You
Knowing your needs for your future car helps you avoid buying the wrong vehicle on impulse. After all, you wouldn’t want to walk into a dealership looking for an eco-friendly hybrid and walk out with a gas-guzzling SUV all because of some slick-tongued salesperson. Car and Driver offers some excellent advice for deciding on what type of car you should buy, with tips like:
Before deciding on a specific model, select the style of car you want. A number of cars on the market can seem overwhelming. Narrowing your choices down to only sedans or convertibles can help your decision seem more manageable, as it allows you to focus on the specific size of car you need.
Do you want something small and fuel-efficient, or something large enough for hauling around the whole family? Decide whether you need all-wheel drive. Typically, only individuals who drive in harsh winter conditions will want this, but it comes with trade-offs, such as increased fuel consumption. Be cautious when selecting the amount of horsepower you want.
Yes, it’s always impressive driving a vehicle capable of going 0-60 in under six seconds. However, most people will never speed down the highway at 100 miles per hour. To quote the Cars and Driver article, spending more money on unnecessary horsepower “is like building a four-story house but leaving the top two floors vacant.”
Do Your Research and Shop Around
A study out of the Riverside School of Business Administration at the University of California found that drivers could save $230 on buying a car by doing two things:
- Learn how much a dealer pays for a car
- Visiting two dealerships
That’s some serious cash just for looking around. The same study also showed that buyers who bargained and conducted a price comparison before purchasing a vehicle saved an average of $800. That shows just how far a little research and shopping around go in helping you save.
This tip also goes for financing your vehicle. You probably won’t get those 0% interest rates that car dealerships advertise without a credit score over 800.
Not spending too much on a car that’s right for you may seem like a simple task, but it does take a lot of research. However, make sure you plan out your purchase goes a long way towards walking away from a dealership with a smile on your face.
Combining these strategies for savings with time-sensitive deals, such as those offered on specific weekdays and holidays, means you’ll be well-positioned to purchase a vehicle.
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Use These Tools to Find the Best Time to Buy a Car
Purchasing a car can seem like a daunting task. You need to pore over auto reviews, get multiple price quotes, research a specific car’s history, and much more. Make that task a little easier by using this comprehensive list of tools and resources to help you plot out your purchase.
Budgeting Tools
Edmunds Affordability Calculator: This tool helps you determine which vehicle to buy based on your target monthly payment, loan term, and interest rate. It also takes into account the value of your trade-in and a potential down payment. Plug in these numbers, and
How Much Can You Afford?” from Practical Money Skills: This calculator works similarly to the one from Edmunds. However, it also lets you factor in the sales tax for your specific county, as well as any potential rebates the manufacturer may offer.
Best Resources for Car Reviews
Car and Driver: One of the foremost authorities on cars, this publication traces its humble beginnings as a magazine back to 1955. It features an exhaustive list of reviews for newer cars on the market. If you’re interested in finding ratings for a vehicle released within the last five years, this should be a helpful stop.
Consumer Reports: While lacking the style of Car and Driver, Consumer Reports features no-nonsense car reviews on almost every make, model, and year imaginable. If you’re trying to find out what lemons you should avoid, Consumer Reports should be your go-to destination.
J.D. Power: A mainstay for car rankings and reviews, J.D. Power offers an industry-expert view of the different cars available for purchase. They also feature articles full of helpful advice on most topics related to buying a car.
Shopping for New or Used Cars
TrueCar: TrueCar-certified dealers list the average price consumers pay for their cars, the price the manufacturer sold it to the dealer for, as well as its MSRP. That price transparency makes TrueCar a great place for finding your next car.
iSeeCars: Featuring a selection of new and used cars, iSeeCars.com also offers multiple tools for buyers to analyze their potential purchases. For instance, it lets you see how many positive reviews a particular car has received, and with used cars, it highlights any specific issues that may be present under the hood that don’t immediately stand out from looking at a picture on a listing.
Autotrader: Another website with a wide selection of cars and useful tools. For instance, Autotrader’s auto comparison tool allows you to select two cars you’re interested in, and then highlights the differences between the models.
Researching a Specific Car
CarFax: If you’re shopping for used cars, CarFax lets you plug in the VIN number and find out everything that particular car has gone through. This includes whether it has been in an accident, whether it has sustained flood damage at some point, and other relevant information.
NADA: NADA Guides, or the National Automobile Dealers Association, also provides VIN lookups that provide the history of a specific car. It also offers quotes on cars from dealers in your area, along with other helpful tools.
Safecar.gov: A government-operated website, Safecar lets you look up every recall out there for vehicles. Be sure to inspect the car thoroughly before purchasing it. You can also find crash ratings for new and used cars, making it a good resource for safety-minded buyers.
When Shopping for Cars, Use Every Tool at Your Disposal
There’s no such thing as too much information when you’re buying a car. By carefully researching your potential purchase using the resources listed above, you can ensure that you’re buying the best vehicle for you at the lowest price when the right time comes around.
Check safety ratings before buying since safer models mean lower premiums. In particular, look for IIHS Top Safety Picks.
Jeff Root Jeff Root Licensed Insurance Agent
A newly purchased vehicle and its accompanying car payment will be with you for years – make sure you’re happy with both. By buying a car that meets your needs when prices are at their lowest (seriously, down 20% off MSRP), you can ensure you don’t leave a car lot regretting your purchase.
All it takes is some planning, research, and a bit of effort to find your perfect vehicle at a low cost. Discover the best time to buy a new car by comparing dealer offers using our free online tool.
Since you’re interested in buying a new car, you may be interested in checking out these helpful articles:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest month to buy a new car?
December is typically the cheapest month to buy a car, as dealerships offer end-of-year discounts and incentives to meet their annual sales goals, which can lower prices by up to 10 to 13 percent. Discover tips to get the cheapest car insurance as you shop smarter for cars at the right time.
At what point is it cheaper to get a new car?
It is often cheaper to get a new car when repair costs for the current vehicle exceed its value or reliability declines, typically around the 150,000- to 200,000-mile range.
What is the 20/4/10 rule for buying a car?
The 20/4/10 rule for buying a car recommends a 20 percent down payment, a loan term of no more than 4 years, and keeping car expenses under 10 percent of monthly income. Discover the best time to buy a new car by checking updated offers using our free online tool.
Which is the best month to buy a new car?
December is often considered the best month to buy a new car, as dealers offer substantial discounts to clear their inventory before the new year begins.
What time of year do car dealerships offer the best deals?
Car dealerships often offer the best deals at the end of the year, particularly during holiday sales events in November and December, when quotas and inventory clearances drive prices down. Find comprehensive auto insurance tips while securing your best car deal of the year.
How much can you negotiate on a new car?
Buyers can typically negotiate between 5% and 10% off the MSRP on a new car, depending on the model, timing, and dealer incentives available.
What is the smartest way to buy a car?
The most effective way to buy a car is to research pricing, secure pre-approved financing, shop at the end of the month, and compare multiple offers to maximize your savings.
Is it better to finance through a bank or a dealer?
Financing through a bank is often better because it usually offers lower interest rates and more transparent terms compared to dealer-arranged financing.
What are the most reliable car brands?
Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, and Honda are consistently ranked among the most reliable car brands due to their long-term dependability and lower repair needs. Learn the best auto insurance for Dodges while taking advantage of end-of-year discounts.
When buying a new car, what month has the highest discount?
December typically offers the highest discounts when buying a new car, as dealers offer year-end sales and inventory clearance incentives to meet their quotas.
What month do cars lose value?
Cars typically lose the most value in January as new model year inventory is introduced, lowering demand and reducing trade-in and resale prices.
Do dealers lower prices end of the month?
Yes, dealers often lower prices at the end of the month to meet sales quotas and clear inventory, offering buyers better negotiation leverage.
What is the slowest month for car dealerships?
January is typically the slowest month for car dealerships due to lower consumer demand after holiday spending and cold weather in many regions. Discover what to do if you can’t afford your auto insurance and still need to shop for a vehicle.
When is the right time to buy a car financially?
The right time to buy a car financially is when you have a stable monthly budget that allows for a down payment and loan payments that do not exceed 10% of your income.
When is the best time to buy a used car?
The best time to buy a used car is during the first quarter of the year, when trade-ins from year-end purchases increase inventory and lower prices.
When is the best time to buy a new Toyota car?
The best time to buy a new Toyota is in December when dealerships offer year-end promotions combined with Toyota-specific incentives.
When is the best time to buy a car in California?
The best time to buy a car in California is late December, when dealerships clear their inventory and offer competitive deals due to high regional demand. See the best auto insurance companies in Colorado while timing your car purchase for savings.
When is the best time to buy a car from a dealership?
The best time to buy a car from a dealership is typically at the end of the month or year, when sales quotas and clearance incentives result in increased discounts.
Is now a good time to buy a car?
It is considered a good time to buy a car when dealer inventories are ample, manufacturer incentives are substantial, and projected monthly costs remain within an affordable budget.
What is the best time of year to buy a new car?
The best time of the year to buy a new car is December, as dealers offer clearance discounts and holiday incentives to clear inventory.
How to know when it’s time for a new car?
It’s time for a new car when repair costs outweigh its value, or outdated safety and reliability features make it impractical to keep. Learn how cheap multi-vehicle auto insurance helps when it’s time for a new car.
What is the ultimate guide to insuring high-value vehicles with tips and tricks?
The ultimate guide to insuring high-value vehicles includes agreed-value policies, higher liability limits, and utilizing specialized insurers to ensure comprehensive protection.
When is the best time to look for car deals?
The best time to look for car deals is late in the year, during model-year-end clearances and seasonal promotional events.
When is car-buying season?
Car buying season peaks in late fall and December, when discounts and dealer quotas drive competitive pricing.
Why should you wait until fall to buy a new car?
Waiting until fall to buy a new car helps buyers secure discounts on prior-year models as dealers prepare for next year’s inventory. Find out how to file an auto insurance claim when choosing to wait for fall discounts.
What is the best time to buy car insurance?
The best time to buy car insurance is before registering or picking up a vehicle, as coverage is legally required to drive and prevents any lapse.
Is buying a car on the weekend a good idea?
The weekend is usually not a good time to buy a car, as dealerships tend to be busier, which limits your negotiation leverage and access to the best available deals.
When is the best time to buy an SUV?
The best time to buy an SUV is between October and December, when dealers offer discounts on outgoing models and clear year-end inventory. Learn the best time to buy a new car by entering your ZIP code into our price savings calculator.
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Travis Thompson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Travis Thompson has been a licensed insurance agent for nearly five years. After obtaining his life and health insurance licenses, he began working for Symmetry Financial Group as a State Licensed Field Underwriter. In this position, he learned the coverage options and limits surrounding mortgage protection. He advised clients on the coverage needed to protect them in the event of a death, critica...
Licensed Insurance Agent
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