Best Time to Buy a Car

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The best time to buy a car is at the end of the month, quarter or year, when dealers push to hit sales quotas, and during model-year changeovers when outgoing inventory is discounted. Holiday sales events (Memorial Day, Labor Day, Black Friday and year-end) and shopping on slower weekdays also improve your use. Timing can save hundreds to thousands, but only if the specific car and price check out.

Best times of year

  • End of the calendar year (late December), annual targets and clearing inventory.
  • Model-year changeover (late summer to fall), discounts on the outgoing year.
  • Major holiday sales, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day and Black Friday.
  • End of a generation, when a redesign is coming and the current model is discounted.

Best time of month and week

Dealers and salespeople often work to monthly and quarterly quotas, so the last few days of a month or quarter can bring more flexibility.

Dealers and salespeople often work to monthly and quarterly quotas, so the last few days of a month or quarter can bring more flexibility. Weekdays, especially Mondays and mid-week, tend to be slower than weekends, giving you more attention and negotiating room than a busy Saturday.

When timing matters less

Timing helps most on new cars and slow-moving inventory.

Timing helps most on new cars and slow-moving inventory. For a specific in-demand used car, availability and condition matter more than the calendar, a well-priced, clean-history example is worth buying whenever it appears. Don't let a 'sale date' rush you into the wrong car.

Make timing pay off

Combine good timing with preparation: know the fair market value, get financing pre-approved so you can negotiate on price alone, and verify the exact car with a VIN, recall and history check.

Combine good timing with preparation: know the fair market value, get financing pre-approved so you can negotiate on price alone, and verify the exact car with a VIN, recall and history check. A discount on a car with hidden problems isn't a deal, the checks are what turn timing into real savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What month is best to buy a car?

December is often best, thanks to year-end quotas and inventory clearing. Model-year changeover months also bring strong discounts on outgoing stock.

Is the end of the month really cheaper?

It can be. Monthly and quarterly sales targets can make dealers more flexible in the final days, though it varies by dealer and inventory.

Are holiday car sales real deals?

Often yes on new and slow-moving cars. Still verify the specific price against market value rather than trusting the 'sale' label.

Does timing matter for used cars?

Less so for in-demand used cars, condition, history and price matter more than the date. Buy a clean, fairly priced car when you find it.

Related Guides

Sources: FTC, Buying a Car · Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Auto Loans.

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