Buying a car is a major financial decision where timing can make a difference. Move too soon, and you may miss out on deals. Wait too long, and car prices may go up.

In today's market, car buyers are grappling with tough questions. Should I buy a new car now or wait? Will new car prices drop? What time of year do car prices go down?

If you're like other car buyers, one burning question probably weighs on your mind as the year-end approaches: Do I buy at the end of this year or hold off until next year?

Should I Buy a New Car Now or Wait?

Car sales hit rock bottom in 2022, with fewer vehicles sold than in any year since 2011.[1] Normally, this could lead to steep discounts and generous financing terms. However, this time, such car deals were harder to come by because the problem was on the supply side.

Throughout 2023 and 2024, the auto industry faced continuing supply chain disruptions, leading to production delays and limited inventory in some instances. Central banks increased interest rates in response to inflation, translating to larger monthly payments for buyers who financed new vehicles. Car buyers now continue to face a challenging choice, torn between buying in the current climate or holding out for more favorable conditions.

There's no single answer to what car buyers should do, as their specific circumstances differ, and the nature of this unusual market environment makes it difficult to predict what will happen next.

Be a Smarter Buyer When Buying a Car

Regardless of the timing of your purchase, it's important to note that experienced salespeople may create a sense of urgency for potential buyers. The aim? To convince you to buy on the spot or risk losing out on a purported once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

But here's what to consider: it may pay off to stand your ground, resist the fear of missing out, and do what savvy shoppers tend to do.

Car buyers taking a smarter approach are intentional when it comes to timing their shopping. Rather than rushing into an impulsive decision, they time purchases for when car dealerships are more inclined to offer better deals.

Armed with this insight, let’s explore how timing may help score a more favorable deal.

What follows is a deeper dive into how this knowledge helps shoppers like you land a deal.

When Is the Best Time of Year To Buy a Car?

Every month, quarter, and year-end, salespeople kick into full gear, rushing to meet sales targets. As these cycles draw to a close, they become extra motivated to offer some sweet deals, creating a great chance for you to snag a bargain.

Still, not all end-of-cycle days are created equal. Some are a good buying opportunity, while others can be more significant.

New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are often seen as times when buying a car might be a good idea. That's because dealerships are triple-motivated: it's the end of the month, the end of the quarter, and the end of the year all at the same time. That means they have plenty of sales targets to meet, which explains why there are so many special end-of-year sales events.

What can sweeten the offer even more is that this is the time when car manufacturers usually roll out those special financing options, potentially triggering extra savings.

Still, remember that you most likely won't be the only one privy to this knowledge. Dealerships are typically packed at this time of year, so it's wise to hit the lot prepared.

Perform your research in advance, pick your desired car model, and have your financing ready. So, when the big day arrives, you can simply head to the dealership and finalize the purchase. 

If exploring financing options, a PNC Check Ready loan lets you secure financing for your preferred vehicle before you visit a participating dealership. Many Check Ready borrowers receive their loan decision in minutes. The Check Ready program allows you to negotiate with confidence up to the approved loan amount. 

What Is the Best Month To Buy a Car if I Missed End-of-Year Sales?

If you missed the December sales, don't despair. Many dealerships continue to offer attractive sales well into January and sometimes even beyond (think February's Presidents' Day events). During these periods, they're keen to clear inventory off their lots to make room for new arrivals.

As you look further into the calendar year, the end of each quarter stands out as another promising opportunity to secure a fantastic deal. During these times, dealerships have quarterly quotas to reach, so sales professionals might be motivated to offer promotions in order to meet their sales targets.

If you wonder what month is likely to be a less expensive time to buy a car, mark your calendar with these end-of-quarter dates. These are months when car prices typically go down:

  • March 31 (End of Q1)
  • June 30 (End of Q2)
  • September 30 (End of Q3)
  • December 31 (End of Q4)

What Time of the Week Is Best To Buy a Car?

When it comes to car shopping, Monday seems to be a top pick. It's also one of the slower days of the week for foot traffic, providing a more relaxed shopping experience.

On quieter days, you will likely get more attention from a salesperson and might even land a nice deal as they look to invigorate this traditionally sluggish start to the week.

What Time of Day Is Best for Buying a Car?

Although the timing of your arrival at the dealership may not directly affect the purchase price, it can enhance your overall buying experience. A good rule to follow is to avoid times around lunch hours and the final hour before closing.

Other Opportunities To Get a Good Deal

Three-day holiday weekends are traditionally one of the best times to get a deal on a vehicle.

For example, Labor Day is one of the busiest days for car sales, and Memorial Day sales events often offer enticing opportunities.

Plus, Black Friday shopping frenzy isn't just reserved for snagging brand-new TVs. With some strategic planning, you could lock in a bargain on a car.

Here's a list of holidays that are typically a good time to explore car deals:

  • Presidents' Day (3rd Monday of February)
  • Memorial Day (Last Monday of May)
  • Independence Day (July 4)
  • Labor Day (Beginning of September)
  • Black Friday (Friday after Thanksgiving)

If you're not dead set on owning the latest car model, another possibility to explore is to wait until the end of the model year to buy a car. Cars for new model years usually have their debut in the fall, but do your research to see if your top picks might follow a different schedule.

Similarly, you can opt for a car model that's undergone a redesign. As this happens, both manufacturers and dealerships are eager to clear their inventories of the old model and make room for the shiny new editions.

Buying a Car at the Start of a New Model Year

Buying a car at the start of a new model year may have some benefits for potential car buyers. 

A new model year in the car industry marks the introduction of updated or entirely new vehicle models, often featuring enhancements in design, technology, and performance. This period typically begins in the fall of the previous calendar year, allowing manufacturers to showcase their latest innovations and attract buyers with the newest offerings.

Here are some potential advantages to consider when timing your purchase around this period:

  • Wider selection of models. When a new model year starts, dealerships are stocked with a fresh lineup of vehicles. If you're looking for specific options, such as color or trim packages, you may have a better chance of finding exactly what you want when the selection is at its peak.
  • Incentives and promotions. These could include cash rebates, low-interest financing, or lease specials. Such deals may significantly reduce the overall cost of your new vehicle.
  • Negotiation power. At the beginning of the model year, dealerships are eager to sell the incoming inventory. This may give buyers more leverage when negotiating prices. 
  • Access to the latest technology and safety features. Buying a new model can ensure you benefit from the most up-to-date offerings if you're particularly interested in features like advanced driver-assistance systems, improved fuel efficiency, or enhanced infotainment options.
  • Potential for increased resale value. Cars in a new model year may hold their value better over time. As more buyers look for the latest features, your new vehicle could fetch a higher resale price when you decide to sell it.

Buying a Car After a Redesign

If you’re considering a new vehicle, keeping an eye on redesigns can help ensure you get the best possible deal on a car that meets your needs. 

A redesigned model is a vehicle that has undergone changes in its exterior and interior design, often including updates to its features, technology, and performance. These changes aim to refresh the model’s appeal and keep it competitive in the market.

Here are some potential advantages of timing your purchase to coincide with the release of a redesigned model:

  • Enhanced features and technology. Automakers may integrate cutting-edge technology, improved safety systems, and enhanced performance capabilities into their redesigned vehicles. 
  • Improved performance and handling. Redesigns may come with significant changes in the vehicle’s engineering and chassis, which could translate to a more refined driving experience with better responsiveness and stability on the road.
  • Modernized aesthetics. A fresh redesign typically includes interior and exterior style updates. A redesigned model may also align better with current automotive trends, making it a more attractive option in the long run.
  • Potential for increased resale value. Newly redesigned models often generate buzz in the market. If you buy a car that has just undergone a redesign, you may find that it retains its value better than older models, making it a wise investment if you plan to sell or trade it.
  • Early adopter advantage. Purchasing a redesigned model allows buyers to be among the first to experience the latest innovations in automotive technology.

Is There a Bad Time to Buy a Car?

Understanding when not to buy a car can save you money and stress.

Make sure you are in a financial position to afford to purchase a car. While dealerships may focus on your monthly payment, it's crucial to also consider the total purchase price, taxes, registration fees, and insurance when considering the cost of ownership. 

Don’t buy a car when you are pressed for time. Avoid visiting a dealership just before it closes or the day before a major holiday. Salespeople may suggest you return during regular hours or continue the negotiation that evening, which might not work in your favor.

The new car market has been unpredictable in the past few years. Although much of the upheaval triggered by pandemic-related vehicle shortages has resolved, high prices and limited inventory could be indications that you should wait to buy a new car. 

Additional Factors To Consider When Deciding When To Buy a Car

Car prices can fluctuate for various reasons, but they all usually fall into two broad categories: direct and indirect factors related to demand and supply.

Direct Factors To Watch Out For Before You Buy a Car

Dealer inventory reflects the immediate supply of cars available at their lots. When this inventory decreases, even as demand remains the same or rises, prices tend to rise—a scenario that unfolded in the wake of the pandemic.

Although this indicator is recovering, some manufacturers still face parts shortages and can't fulfill car orders due to a lack of inventory.[2] An immediate price drop is less likely for such vehicles, particularly if they are in high demand.

These high-demand vehicles are also less likely to offer rebates or dealer discounts.

Indirect Factors From the Broader Economic Environment

What sets smart car buyers apart is an understanding of fundamental economics, namely the effect of interest rates and inflation on supply and demand.

Without going into the technical nitty-gritty, let's equip you with the knowledge that can help you pick the time for a car purchase.

Interest Rates

Since March 2022, we've seen a complete turnaround from record-low interest rates to elevated levels.[3] While interest rates show signs of stabilizing, in general, higher interest rates mean less favorable auto loans, causing many buyers to reconsider car purchases. However, recent rate cuts may alter that trend.[4] Either way, buyers who explore financing options may discover options to make their vehicle more affordable.

Ultimately, reduced demand usually leads to lower car prices, but the exact timing of this adjustment is difficult to pinpoint.

Inflation

Inflation brings about price increases across the board, and cars are no exception. As prices climb, consumers find it harder to set aside enough money to buy a new car. Again, this usually leads to a decrease in car sales, but the timeframe for when this reduced demand will translate into lower prices is also hard to predict.

Financing Preapproval: Is it Important?

Buying a car at the right time, coupled with pre-approved financing, can enhance your purchasing experience and financial outcome. Here are some key possible advantages of this approach:

  • Greater negotiating power. When you have pre-approved financing, you enter the dealership as a more informed and empowered buyer, confident in your spending boundaries. Sellers are often more willing to negotiate with buyers who show financial readiness.
  • Clarity on budget. With pre-approved financing, you can focus on vehicles that fit your financial parameters, saving you time and ensuring you don’t fall in love with a car out of reach.
  • Timing for best deals. Purchasing a car at the right time — during model year-end sales, holiday promotions, or when new models are released — can yield better deals. With pre-approval in hand, you can act quickly when you find a deal that meets your needs.
  • Streamlined purchase process. Having pre-approved financing simplifies the purchasing process. You can present your financing terms to the dealership and opt out of the any higher interest rates associated with in-house financing options or the dealership’s bank partnerships
  • Potential for better interest rates. By obtaining pre-approved financing from a bank or credit union, you may secure better interest rates than dealerships, saving you money over the life of the loan.

Timing Your Car Purchase: A Buyer's Checklist

In summary, here is a short list of things you might like to consider as you strategize the timing of your car purchase.

  • End of the month, quarter, or year: Dealerships often have sales quotas to meet, so buying a car before these days might lead to better deals.
  • Holidays: Look for sales events and special promotions during major holidays like Black Friday, Labor Day, or Memorial Day.
  • Weekdays: Visiting a dealership on a weekday might result in a better buying experience and more attention from sales staff.
  • End of the model year or when new models are released: As the model year comes to a close or new models hit the market, you may potentially score a deal if you time your purchase around these days.
  • Economic factors: Keep an eye on economic driving forces that tend to affect car prices, like interest rate dynamics and inflation trends.

Car Buying Experience To Remember

Few experiences can match the thrill of driving off the lot in your new car. Buying a car is an exciting event and a major milestone, especially if you are a first-time car buyer. With these tips in mind, you should be able to ensure that your next car buying experience is nothing short of great.

Whether it comes to the timing of hitting the dealership or considering the economics of financing your vehicle, remember to do your research so that, as an informed consumer, you can make the decision that best meets your needs.

To learn how PNC can help you on your vehicle-buying journey, visit our auto lending page