Best Times to Buy a Car and Save Big

Timing is everything when it comes to buying or leasing a car, especially in New York, where prices and availability can fluctuate based on demand. Whether you're shopping for a sedan to navigate city streets or an SUV for weekend getaways, choosing the right time to buy can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

From year-end sales to strategic shopping during holiday events, here’s when you should be looking for the best deals on their next car.

End-of-Year Blowouts:

The Best Time to Score Big Savings
The end of the calendar year is one of the best times to buy a new car. Dealers are eager to clear out old inventory before January to make room for new models and meet annual sales quotas. This means December—especially the final week—is prime time for negotiations.

If you want the absolute best deal, head to a dealership on December 30 or 31 when dealers are most motivated. Some may even be willing to take a loss on a car just to meet their year-end targets.

Pro Tip: If you’re flexible on colors and trim levels, you’ll have even more negotiating power on leftover models from the outgoing year.

End of the Month:

A Smart Strategy for Savvy Shoppers
Not everyone can wait until December to make a purchase. Luckily, dealerships often have monthly sales goals, and hitting these numbers can mean extra bonuses for managers and sales teams. That’s why shopping near the end of any month (especially the last two or three days) can help you score a better price.

To maximize your deal:
Start researching and test-driving your preferred vehicle between the 16th and 20th of the month.
Get familiar with manufacturer incentives, rebates, and financing offers available in your area.
Then, return to the dealership on the final few days of the month to negotiate—salespeople will be eager to hit their targets.

Model Changeovers:

Big Savings on Last Year’s Model
When the latest car models hit showrooms in September and October, dealers often discount last year’s versions to clear space. If you don’t mind having a car that’s technically a model year older, this is one of the easiest ways to save thousands of dollars.

The catch? You might have limited choices when it comes to features, colors, and trims. However, in many cases, the differences between model years are minor, making it a great deal for budget-conscious buyers.

Tip: Check dealer websites for last year’s models still in stock—they’ll be priced to move.

Shopping Online? Do This Before You Buy

New Yorkers are no strangers to online shopping, and that applies to cars too. Many dealerships now allow you to customize, finance, and even arrange delivery for your vehicle online.

But before clicking “buy,” always visit the dealership for a test drive. What looks great on a website might not feel right when you’re behind the wheel, especially if you need to navigate NYC’s busy streets and tight parking spaces.

Holiday Sales Events:

Another Great Time to Buy
Holiday weekends are prime time for auto deals, with manufacturers rolling out aggressive incentives. If you can’t wait until the end of the year, these are the best holiday weekends to buy a car:

Presidents’ Day (February): One of the first big sales events of the year.
Memorial Day (May): Marks the start of summer promotions.
Fourth of July: Expect competitive rebates and financing offers.
Labor Day (September): One of the biggest auto sales events, aligning with model year changeovers.
Black Friday (November): While most think of electronics and retail, car dealerships also offer deep discounts.

Persistence Pays Off:

Get the Best Deal
No matter when you shop, the best way to secure a great deal is by being informed and persistent. Research your vehicle, compare dealership pricing, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. The more knowledge you have, the more leverage you’ll hold at the bargaining table.

Final Tip

 Always check Tri-State specific incentives, such as tax breaks on electric vehicles or manufacturer rebates for the Tri-State area. These can further reduce your costs and make your new car purchase even sweeter.

Ready to hit the dealerships? Use these timing strategies, and you’ll be driving away with a great deal in no time.