Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Shutterstock/KELENY
Driver dilemma

Here are the best times of year to buy a car

Certain times of the year are better than others.

TIMING IS A key consideration when buying a new (or new-to-you) car. Picking the right month to buy could save you a lot of money as seasonal factors affect the car trade.

So, if you are thinking about buying a car, keep an eye on the calendar and head out to the dealerships at these times of the year.

Convertibles are more desirable in the summer so there may be bargains to had if you go looking to buy one in the winter months.

Four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles tend to be more popular in the winter, so there may be good offers if you go shopping for one in the spring and summer months.

The last selling day in January is a great day to grab a car bargain as dealers are keen to reach their first month target and collect their much needed post-Christmas bonuses.

At the end of each quarter dealers are again trying to hit quarterly sales targets so this is a good time to go out and negotiate yourself a deal.

The last selling day in June is another key date – this is the last day of the registration period and dealers will be trying to sell stock to make way for newly registered cars. Same goes for the last selling day in December before the new plates appear.

In general, sales of new cars are slow during the months of May and June and November and December when people are waiting for the new registration period – so shopping during these months will work in your favour.

Showrooms and dealerships are also quieter on weekdays so it is better to shop midweek than at the weekend when demand for cars is higher.

Of course, the best time to buy a car is when you feel ready and when you have found the car that suits your needs and your budget but shopping at these key times will hopefully help you get a better deal.

READ: Review: the Volkswagen Arteon aims for the premium class but does it miss its mark? >

READ: What should you do if you see an animal on the road? Or if you hit one? >

Your Voice
Readers Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel