When car shopping, you’re always looking for the top deals and best savings, but it can be hard to know when to start looking to maximize your money. So, when is the best time to buy a car? Let’s discuss the ideal time you want to be at the dealership making your next purchase.
Why Year-End Is a Smart Time to Buy a Car
At the end of the year, dealerships are trying to get rid of the 2025 models before the 2026 models take over the lot. Those 2025s are now officially last year’s cars. Plus, December 31 is the deadline for yearly sales targets; salespeople, managers, and the store itself don’t want to fall short.
On top of that, many manufacturers offer incentives, dealerships offer specials, and extended promotions are also common to help clear out the old models before the new year starts.
So, for someone looking to buy a new car, you’ve got a lot of good deals to choose from.
Best Times Within the Year-End Season
Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday is famously known as one of the biggest discount weeks for shoppers, and cars are no exception. Starting November 28 through December 1, you have top brands rolling out specials, from cash back, low-interest loans, and lease deals. Although the discounts are not the biggest of the year, it’s still a very good deal if you’re ready to shop early.
December Holidays
December is officially the holiday season, and the favorite one for many. Why? Well, one of the main reasons is: discounts. Yes, in December, you can find deals everywhere, including automotive. Take “Happy Honda Days,” which typically offers rebates and low lease rates. Or “Toyota Toyotathon,” their massive end-of-year event running through December, offering cash back, low rates, and deals on popular rides like the RAV4 or Camry. Other brands are also offering similar attractive deals, so make sure to check out their sites!
Final Week of December
Now, if you’re asking when is the best time to buy a car in December, the answer would be: the final week of December. Why? Because, as previously mentioned, this is the time when dealerships, sales teams, and manufacturers all work extra hard to get all the incentives out and reach their yearly goals. If you have time to wait before purchasing, the final week of December is arguably the best time of year.
New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day
The absolute last gasp: December 31 through January 1. Any unsold 2025 models become “old” inventory overnight. Leftover rebates and “dealer cash” are put into close sales before the clock strikes midnight. It’s not always the busiest day, but if you’re happy with a speedy closing, you might walk away with the best bargain of the year.
What Kind of Cars Get the Biggest Year-End Discounts?
Outgoing Model Years
The first ones to get the biggest year-end discounts are vehicles that are ready to become “last year’s news.” So in this case, we’re talking about cars from 2025. And since dealerships want to get rid of it as quickly as possible, they’ll offer them quite a deal! Expect incentives, such as 0% APR for 60-72 months, $ 3,000-$10,000 cash back, and many other fantastic discounts.
Slow-Moving Inventory
Other cars that typically offer major discounts are those slow-moving ones. Think of sedans: folks have turned to SUVs more these days, so family sedans like the Chevy Malibu or Toyota Camry often sit on the lot longer. Or even many Electric Vehicles (EVs) sit on the slow-moving inventory. If these types of vehicles are what you’re looking for, you’re in for a treat.
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Models
A CPO vehicle is the best deal out there if you’re shopping for a near-new car without the full new-car price tag. Certified Pre-owned vehicles have undergone a check-up by the pros to make sure they’re in great shape, and they usually include a solid warranty for peace of mind. CPOs don’t get you the best discounts out of all other cars, but the low risk, think good mileage and reliable condition, makes them a winner for a lot of folks.
Year-End Tips for Smart Car Shoppers
Get Pre-Approved for Financing
One of the easiest ways to save money is by getting your financing pre-approved. Spend some time getting it online or from your bank or credit union, and it gives you a clear picture of what monthly payment you can comfortably handle. Alternatively, many dealerships offer financing options.
Check out Rohrich Affordable Car financing for a convenient, low-rate, and quick financing solution.
Do Your Research Ahead of Time
Research is essential when buying a car. You want to know everything related to the car. Besides the type of vehicle you want, research the fair market values of the cars you’re considering. You can use sites such as Kelley Blue Book or Cars.com to check out the prices in your local area. In addition, read some honest reviews online to ensure your plan to purchase a vehicle is reliable, has reasonable fuel costs, and poses no red flags.
Be Flexible with Features and Timing
Being specific about what car you want is normal, but be open to small changes in your preferences. For instance, if you’re okay skipping that fancy sunroof or heated seats, or open to a different color/trim, dealers can pull from deeper discounts on overstocked stuff. Also, the same goes for timing. If you want to purchase your car during Black Friday but can’t, go for the last week of December.
Conclusion
When is the best time to buy a car? If you’re looking for the best deals, which we all do, the end of the year is the best time to do it. You’ve got dealerships looking to flush out their old models for the newer model to take its place and you’ve got the manufacturers and dealerships rolling out incentives and discounts.
So there you have it, if you happen to be looking for a new car at this time of year, you’re in luck! Check out Rohrich Automotive, we’ve got all the attractive deals, and we work in full transparency to help you get your dream car at your dream price! Contact us or visit our locations today, and our team of experts will help make your purchasing journey smooth and pleasant!