Buying a car – whether it’s brand new or just new to you – is a big decision. Getting the right model at the right price takes research, and while comparing specs, used values and alternatives is important, timing can also make a difference. So, is there really a best time to buy a car?
Deals on new and used cars are available year-round, but there are certain times when you’re more likely to bag a bargain. In the UK, many buyers still target the March and September plate-change months for a new car, but with demand at its peak, dealers don’t always feel the need to negotiate.
You’ll often find the best deals when demand has dipped, and dealers are more focused on clearing stock or hitting sales targets. To help you cut through the noise, we’ve put together a guide on the best times to buy – whether you’re after a new or used car – plus our top tips for getting the best deal.
When is the best time to buy a new car?
Because so many buyers and fleets wait for the new-registration plates in March and September, dealers are busiest in the run-up to those months. Cars ordered in February or August are often earmarked for 1 March or 1 September delivery, so dealers won’t always be keen to haggle unless it’s a slow-selling model.
That said, manufacturer offers such as 0% finance or deposit contributions usually appear around plate-change season, which can save you more in the long run than a straight discount. If you want the best deals, target quieter periods – May to early August or December to January – when dealers are more eager to move stock.
Flexibility is key, opting for cars already in stock (sometimes higher trims rather than custom orders) can cut wait times and unlock stronger savings, even if you compromise on colour or spec.
Be sure to check out our best cheap PCP deals if you’re after a great deal on a budget.
When is the best time to buy a used car?
You’ll often get the best deal on a used car towards the end of the month, and particularly at the end of a quarter (March, June, September, December). That’s when dealers are working hardest to hit sales targets, so they may be more open to negotiation.
Winter can also be a smart time to shop. With fewer buyers around, dealers are keen to shift stock – and if the car you’re looking at has just been replaced by a newer model, you might see even bigger savings.
It’s not just new cars that benefit from plate-change season – used buyers can win too. Just before a plate change (February and August), dealers see a flood of PCP trade-ins and need to clear space for incoming stock. That’s often when you’ll find the best choice of approved-used models from big brands like Audi, BMW or Volvo.
Here are a few of Parkers’ top tips on when to buy a car:
1. Buy used convertibles in winter
Convertibles are most expensive during the summer months – so shop around in the winter when demand is low and dealers will be quiet.
2. Buy a used off-roader in the summer
Off-roaders are cheapest when the weather is good. This means it’s worth buying one during the summer months when there will be plenty of deals around. Leave it much later and prices will start to rise come winter.
3. Buy at the end of the quarter
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 to meet targets and so are more likely to make a deal.
4. Find discounts between October through to December
If you want to buy a car later in the year, aim to buy between October and December. Many dealerships discount their cars strongly during these months in order to improve sales figures, and to clear the way for models arriving in the New Year.
5. Save money between Christmas & New Year
The weeks around Christmas and the New Year can deliver massive savings. This period is between new plate releases and the dealerships will be quiet, 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. Buy an old model when the new one launches
Buy the previous generation car at the launch of the new one. The older version will drop in price and many dealers will offer good deals to make room for new cars.
7. Buy an old model when the new facelift launches
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 to restock with new ones.
8. Keep an eye on the market
Lastly, remember to keep an eye on the market. If new or used car sales are struggling then that can give you even more leverage against a dealer, as they’ll be working harder to complete sales.
Looking for a new or used car for sale?
You can use the Parkers New Cars for Sale service page to search your local area for cars, while our Used Cars for Sale section lets you browse used cars for sale in the UK. Our Car Valuation tool will show you what kind of price you should be able to negotiate on all models.
If you’re considering buying your new car on finance, make sure you visit our finance section for a quote – we work with over 21 lenders to give our customers access to over 100 different lending options.
FAQs
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When is the cheapest month to buy a car?
The cheapest months are often December and January, when demand is low and dealers are keen to hit year-end targets.
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Is it better to buy a car at the end of the month?
Yes – timing can really work in your favour. Dealers often have monthly and quarterly sales targets to hit, especially in March, June, September and December. If they’re close to meeting their numbers, they may be more willing to negotiate on price, throw in extras, or offer better finance terms to get the deal over the line.
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Are plate-change months a good time to buy?
Definitely. February and August are key times for used car bargains, as lots of PCP trade-ins hit the market ahead of the new registrations.
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