If you’re asking what time of year is best to buy a car, industry data suggests that late fall and December often present the strongest incentives and negotiation opportunities for new car buyers. This is a great starting point, but the full answer depends on whether you want a new or used vehicle, your budget, and how flexible you can be.
This guide breaks down the best times to buy month-by-month. We’ll also cover the worst times and give you practical steps to get the best deal, no matter when you shop.
What Time Of Year Is Best To Buy A Car
The best time to buy a car is typically during periods of high inventory and low demand. For new cars, this centers on the end of the month, quarter, and model year. Seasonally, late summer through December is prime time.
For used cars, the timing shifts slightly, with potential advantages found in early winter and late spring. Your personal readiness to negotiate and walk away is just as important as the calendar.
The Best Months To Buy A New Car
Dealerships and manufacturers operate on sales cycles that create predictable opportunities for savings. Target these key months.
September Through December: The Clearance Window
This is the most powerful period for new car deals. Manufacturers are eager to clear out last year’s models to make room for the new ones arriving in showrooms.
- September & October: Incentives begin to ramp up as new models arrive. You’ll see a mix of current-year and previous-year models.
- November: Black Friday has become a major car sales event. Dealers offer special bonuses and discounts to hit month-end and holiday targets.
- December: The single best month for many. Dealers are desperate to hit annual sales quotas and clear inventory before the new year. Expect significant cash rebates, low-interest financing, and managers willing to negotiate to close a deal.
Late Summer (July & August)
As the next model year approaches, dealers start preparing. While selection of the outgoing models might be thinner, the discounts on remaining units can be excellent.
End Of Any Month Or Quarter
Salespeople and dealerships have monthly and quarterly sales targets. The last few days of these periods are high-pressure times for them, which gives you leverage. Always try to shop and negotiate near these deadlines.
The Best Months To Buy A Used Car
The used car market follows different rhythms, influenced by tax seasons, weather, and new car sales.
January Through March
After the holiday spending rush, demand for used cars dips. Sellers may be more motivated. Also, an influx of off-lease vehicles from the previous fall often hits the market, increasing supply.
Late Fall (October & November)
Similar to new cars, used car dealers may be looking to thin inventory before winter and the end of the year. This is a good time to find a deal on a used vehicle that’s been on the lot for a while.
When To Avoid The Used Market
Late spring and early summer (May-July) are typically the most expensive times to buy used. High demand from families buying before summer road trips and graduates needing cars pushes prices up.
Worst Times To Buy A Car
Knowing when not to buy is just as crucial. Avoid these periods if you’re looking for maximum leverage.
- Spring (March-May): Demand rises with tax refunds and better weather. Dealers have less incentive to offer big discounts.
- Early Summer (June-July): Peak buying season for families. Inventory might be high, but so are prices and competition.
- New Model Launch (Varies): When a brand-new redesign hits the showroom, you’ll pay a premium. Wait at least 6-12 months for incentives to appear.
- Major Holidays (Outside Year-End): While Presidents Day or Memorial Day have sales events, the discounts are often pre-planned and less negotiable than the pressure-driven deals in December.
How To Prepare For Your Purchase Anytime Of Year
Timing is a powerful tool, but preparation is what seals a great deal. Follow these steps before you ever contact a dealer.
Research Your Target Vehicle
Don’t walk onto a lot unsure of what you want. Use online resources to narrow your choices.
- Identify 2-3 specific makes, models, and trim levels that fit your needs.
- Research the Fair Market Price (Invoice, MSRP, and average paid) using sites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds.
- Check current manufacturer incentives on the brand’s official website.
- For used cars, review vehicle history reports and compare prices across multiple listing sites.
Get Pre-Approved For Financing
Walking in with a pre-approval from your bank or credit union gives you a baseline interest rate. This allows you to compare the dealer’s financing offer objectively and strengthens your position as a serious buyer.
Practice The Art Of Negotiation
Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment. Be polite but firm, and be ready to walk away if the numbers don’t meet your researched target. Your willingness to leave is your greatest asset.
Step-By-Step Buying Strategy For The Best Time
Let’s combine timing and preparation into a single action plan for when you’re ready to buy.
- Choose Your Timing: Aim for the last week of December, or at least the last few days of any month.
- Contact Dealers Online First: Email the internet sales department of multiple dealerships. Request out-the-door price quotes on your specific vehicle. This creates competition without the pressure of the showroom.
- Compare Quotes: Use the best quote to leverage a better offer from your preferred dealer or local dealership.
- Schedule A Test Drive: Only visit the dealership after you have a negotiated price in writing. The visit should be to confirm the car’s condition and finalize paperwork.
- Review The Final Paperwork Carefully: Ensure the final contract matches the agreed-upon price, with no added fees or services you didn’t approve.
Special Considerations For Electric And Hybrid Vehicles
The market for EVs and hybrids has its own dynamics. Inventory levels and government incentives can heavily influence the best time to buy.
- Year-End Still Applies: All automakers have sales goals, so December pressure is still effective.
- Monitor Tax Credit Eligibility: Federal and state EV tax credits can change. Buying when a full credit is available can outweigh seasonal timing.
- New Model Announcements: When a new EV with longer range is announced, deals on the current model may improve as it becomes “old” technology faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a car at the end of the year?
Yes, for new cars, the end of the year—especially December—is generally the best time. Dealerships are motivated by annual sales targets and need to clear inventory for incoming models, leading to higher discounts and more negotiable prices.
What is the best day of the week to buy a car?
Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, are often better than weekends. The showroom is less busy, giving sales staff more time to work with you, and managers may be more flexible to secure a sale on a slower day.
When are car prices lowest?
Car prices are typically at their lowest point during the late fall and winter months, from October through December for new cars. For used cars, the deepest discounts can often be found in January and February, following the holiday season.
Should I wait for a holiday sale to buy a car?
Holiday sales can offer good promotions, but they are not always the deepest discounts. The year-end clearance in December usually provides better overall savings and negociation room than most specific three-day holiday weekends.
Is there a bad time to buy a used car?
The worst time to buy a used car is typically late spring and early summer (May through July). High demand from buyers using tax refunds and preparing for summer travel creates a seller’s market with higher prices and less selection of quality vehicles.