Best times to get the greatest deals

With the new '60' plates due on the September 1, many people will be tempted into buying a new car - but is this the right time to buy?

Sometimes it's best to hold fire - timing, as they say is everything. So what are the best times to buy a new car?

1) Convertibles are most expensive during the summer months - so shop around in the winter when demand is low and dealers will be quiet.

2) Off-roaders are cheapest when the weather is good. This means it's worth buying one during summer, when there will be plenty of deals around - and before prices start to rise coming up to the winter.

3) If you are looking to buy during the year, buy at the end of each quarter. This allows you to put pressure on the dealer as they will be looking to complete sales and are more likely to make a deal.

4) If you want to buy a car later in the year, many dealerships discount their cars strongly during October to December in order to improve figures and to clear the way for models arriving in the New Year.

5) The weeks around Christmas and the New Year can deliver massive savings. They are between new plate releases and a very quiet period, so heavy cuts will be offered in order to maintain sales. Don't be put off by pre-registered cars - there are some great bargains to be had.

6) The best time of the month to buy in is the last day or two, as the dealership will do everything they can to complete a sale.

7) Go into the showroom on a Friday. Dealerships are always quietest during the week - this means the staff will be more attentive and more likely to offer discounts in order to meet weekly targets.

8) Buy the previous generation car at the launch of the new one. The older version will drop in price and many dealers will be offering good deals in order to make room for new cars.

9) Buy at the release of facelifted models. Much like the release of a new car, the new facelifted models become the more desirable purchase and consequently dealers look to quickly sell on the pre-facelift cars in order to restock with new ones.

10) Look to buy after the release of new plates. The previous plate cars will be discounted with the arrival of the new ones, or there may be an excess of new stock, or a run-out model, that allows leverage for a good deal.

Parker's Top Tip

Don't forget that you can use the Parker's 'New Cars For Sale' to search your local area for cars, as well as looking at recommended star buys. You can also use our valuation service to see what kind of price you should be able to negotiate on all the new models.