Christmas is a festive time filled with many celebrations, family gatherings, and, of course, great discounts on a range of products. But what about cars? Is Christmas a good time to purchase a car? For the most part, yes, but it all depends on your situation and needs. So, without further ado, let us determine whether Christmas is a good time to buy for you.
Why Christmas Is a Great Time to Buy a Car
Year-End Sales and Specials
The first good reason Christmas is a great time to buy a car is that many dealerships offer year-end sales and specials! Why is this the case? Part of the reason is that many dealerships and their salespeople must meet quotas, contributing to this phenomenon. These are usually done monthly or annually, so December is the “injury time” for them. Failure to meet the quota means carrying more inventory over the next year, which in many states will result in an inventory tax.
So, if you want to get a good deal and save money on a new vehicle, look for some Christmas deals near you.
Dealership Incentives and Bonuses
The second reason is closely related to the first, as some dealerships will provide extra incentives and bonuses to those looking to purchase a car in December. Dealers and manufacturers are also vying for bragging rights as the best-selling truck, mini-van, or SUV in America. To do so, they must offer deals at the end of the year to reach that prize number.
In addition, the number of cars sold by a dealer in a given year determines what and how much inventory they will receive from their franchise manufacturer in the following year.
Slower Buying Season
As much as people think that discounts and special offers will entice customers to rush into the showroom and make large purchases, December is actually a slower buying season. This could be due to factors such as many people being preoccupied with Christmas shopping and travel. So, if you want fewer buyers to compete with and lower prices, December is the month to go shopping for your ride.
Tax Benefits and Financial Planning
The end of the year presents a good opportunity to get tax benefits. For instance, if you need a vehicle for business use, you can take advantage of tax benefits by purchasing before the deadline of December 31, when you can claim deductions under Section 179 for qualified vehicles.
By purchasing a car at Christmas and taking advantage of holiday discounts, you can optimize your budget for the next year, review your finances, and plan for the year ahead.
Use Your Holiday Bonus
The holiday also often means getting a nice holiday bonus from your employer, which you can use to buy things you’ve been waiting to buy. If a car is one of those things, why not use your holiday bonus at the right time to buy a vehicle? Prices are lower, and you can save more on your bonus to spend on Christmas with your family and friends!
When Christmas Might Not Be the Best Time to Buy
Limited Inventory and Selection
The one downside of purchasing a car around Christmas is that there may be fewer options available. As the year comes to a close, dealerships are looking to clear inventory to make room for new models. Consider that many popular models may have sold out, leaving you with older and fewer options. So, if you are looking for specific brands and models, December may not be the best time to buy due to limited options. In this case, you should wait until next year when the new models arrive.
If You’re Focused on Discounts Over Needs
Discounts are an excellent reason to purchase a vehicle. You can save money and purchase a car at a bargain price. However, discounts should not be the only consideration when making your decision. What really matters are your priorities and preferences. If, for example, finances make purchasing a car impractical, waiting for another may be a better option. Have the right timing by buying a car when it is a wise decision and in the right situation.
Tips for Buying a Car During the Christmas Season
- Compare Models and Features
You may see a car you like on the street or in pictures, and you intend to purchase that car. However, we advise you first to conduct research and compare models and features. Aside from appearance, performance and features are important factors in determining your experience with the vehicle. When comparing models, look for these characteristics and read what others have said about the vehicle.
- Check Dealership Inventory Online
Checking dealerships online makes sense for a variety of reasons. For starters, it will save you time and effort if you’re still in the stage of comparing models. You can get a good set of information from the site. You can check the car you’re interested in to see if they have them. You can compare the features, prices, special offers, specifications, and so on that many dealerships make available on their website. So, by the time you’re ready to go for the next stage and go to the dealerships, you already have good information at your disposal.
- Set a Budget and Stick to It
When setting your budget, you want to include more than just what you pay for the vehicle. You want to factor in the down payment, monthly payment, insurance, maintenance, and additional add-ons. If you’re financing, shop around for the best loan rates.
- Make a List of Questions
More knowledge about the car will allow you to make a more informed decision.
So, you want to make a list of questions to bring to the dealership. These questions can range from general inquiries about the vehicle to warranty coverage, maintenance plans, and financing options.
- Schedule a Test Drive
Once you’ve gathered all of the necessary information, it’s time to test drive the vehicle. Personal and tangible experiences can have an impact. Sometimes, what looks good on paper doesn’t necessarily work in reality. So, schedule a test drive and see for yourself.
So, Is Christmas a Good Time to Buy a Car?
Is Christmas a good time to buy a car now that you’ve had some ideas? If so, start looking for your ideal vehicle, visit some dealerships, and, of course, keep an eye out for the best deals and special offers! Don’t forget to check out our Rohrich inventory. We have the best selection of used and new vehicles, as well as many fantastic deals! Please contact our team if you require further assistance!
