Used Cars: Is There a Best Time to Shop?

Buy Before You Have To

Purchase another car before you seriously need a new one. While this answer might not be time-specific, it’s better to have more time to make this decision instead of making this type of purchase in haste. It’s good practice to begin finding out your options to make an informed choice instead of a hurried one. Additionally, it’s recommended to make a decision prior to a breakdown, because it will receive additional value for your trade-in because it doesn’t require repair.

4th Quarter of the Calendar Year

Why should you purchase a used vehicle in the last months of the year? This time of year is recommended due to the amount of seasonal holiday dealership sales commonly enjoyed. Furthermore, let’s keep in mind there is a need to find room for the next year’s models.

Shop At the Beginning of the Week

Why would you want to get a used car at the start of the week? Well, when dealers aren’t extremely busy, it is commonly easier for car buyers to get the car they’re looking for. As compared to the weekend, Mondays are typically by far the least crowded. This often means more attention from sales and financing specialists.

During Seasonal Sales

Seasonal and holiday sales are typically a great opportunity to get an automobile. While these national sales provide great savings on new vehicles, many dealerships also advertise local promotions or discounted pricing on their certified pre-owned inventory, as well. For the most part, New Year’s ranks amongst the best of all seasonal sales events for customers searching for worthwhile discounts. During the middle of the year, customers usually expect to see even more savings during Memorial Day and Independence Day. Then, there are a series of holiday and seasonal sales starting with Labor Day then concluding in December with End of Year sales to close out the year.

Towards the Final Days of the Month

What is the advantage of buying pre-owned cars and trucks at the month’s end? To be honest, as most auto dealerships operate on a month-to-month basis, it is occasionally possible that some inventory may be needed to be cleared to make places for incoming models. This increases your success at finding the right automobile at the right price.