When is the best time to buy a new-to-you car? If you’re ready to get into your next vehicle, then the time of year you choose to buy a used car in Victoria can be key to unlocking savings, for a few different reasons:
End of Year = New Car Models = Great Deals
Manufacturers tend to release car models for the following year between September and December, which means a few things:
- Dealerships will be trying to move stock make room
- The previous/current year car models are no longer as “in demand”
- Those looking to get into a brand new car will be selling their current vehicle
- Rental car companies, like National Car & Truck Rental, will be changing over some of their stock and selling off lightly used vehicles
During this time of year, there is an influx of used cars on the market, which drives prices down so you can save on your next used vehicle.
Off-Season Purchase
Consider the type of vehicle you’d like to buy (truck, SUV, sports car, etc.) – if that vehicle has a specific season where it is popular to use, then aim to purchase at the end of that season, where people may be pulling their cars off the road and don’t want to store them for another year. Here are a few examples:
- SUVs: Purchase in spring (after winter driving)
- Compact Cars: Purchase in fall (before winter driving)
- Luxury Cars: Purchase in December/January (less large-ticket buying in these months)
- Weekdays Aren’t As Busy
Any time a salesperson has time means they’ll be willing to spend more time on selling you a pre-owned vehicle. If purchase through a used car dealership, Mondays are the best day, followed by Thursday and Wednesday. Try to avoid weekends, if possible.
Plan Ahead for Students
The key to all of these tips for choosing the best time for buying a used car is to find times when others aren’t doing the same. If you’re looking for a used car for a student in Victoria, that means aiming for a few months before term starts, as otherwise, you’ll have competition. Starting early offers the best chance at a great deal on popular models like the Hyundai Kona or Accent.
New Year’s Eve!
It seems odd, but yes, there are specific days of the year that are perfect for purchasing a car, such as New Year’s Eve. It is one of the least busy shopping days of the entire year, so you’ll have your salesperson’s full attention. Salespeople typically have monthly, quarterly, and annual sales quotas to meet and the 31st is the final day for them to make them, making them more incentivized to get the sale. Can’t wait or have plans? Anytime after Christmas is good, as most people aren’t out to make big-ticket purchases so soon after the holidays.
Of course, one way to avoid the pain of trying to find the perfect time to buy a used car in Victoria is to go to a place that is hassle-free 365 days a year – with no salespeople, managers, or high-pressure tactics. Just a massive inventory of new cars and a buyer-focused attitude.