Used Cars & Trucks: Is There a Best Time of Year to Purchase?

Buy Before You Need It

Purchase a new-to-you used car before you desperately need a new one. Certainly this response isn’t quite time-specific, but it’s almost always better to have more time on this type of decision instead of making this kind of purchase in haste. It’s always good to start researching the options in order to make a wise choice rather than a hurried one. Additionally, it’s beneficial that you make a decision before your current car is broken down, because you may receive additional value for your trade-in because it isn’t needing any repairs.

The End of the Year

Why buy a used vehicle in the final months of the calendar year? We suggest this time of year because of the amount of seasonal sales events typically available. Let’s not forget that there’s the need to find room for that incoming inventory.

Purchase Towards the Beginning of the Week

Why should one buy a used car at the beginning of the week? Well, when dealerships aren’t too busy, it is sometimes easier for car buyers to get the car they’re hoping for. Compared to Saturdays, Mondays are typically by far the least full. This circumstance usually means more attention and time from the sales and financing staff.

During Seasonal Holiday Sales Events

Seasonal and holiday sales events are typically a perfect time to buy a vehicle. While national sales present sizable savings on new cars, many auto dealerships also advertise local incentives on their pre-owned car inventory, as well. Overall, New Year’s ranks among the best of all yearly sales events for shoppers seeking good deals. Towards the middle of the year, customers should expect to see even more savings for Memorial Day and Independence Day. Additionally, in the final quarter of the year, there are a number of seasonal and holiday sales events starting with Labor Day and ending in December with End of Year sales events to bring the year to a close.

At the Last Days of the Month

What is the merit of buying used cars at the month’s last week? Frankly, as most car dealers operate on a monthly basis, it’s likely probable that some inventory may be obligated to be cleared in order to make space for incoming vehicles. This may increase your chance at finding the right car at the right price.