Knowing when to buy can save you money, give you more choice and help you find a better car.
The Best Months To Buy
People ask me all the time when the best time is to buy a car, and after spending nine years working at a main dealership I'd definitely say March and September.
That's because in the UK new registration plates are released twice a year. March brings the new '26' plate and September brings the new '76' plate. Every year this creates a huge amount of movement in the car market.
Why March & September?
People who normally wouldn't change their car suddenly decide it's time to upgrade because they want the latest registration. Whether it's because they genuinely want a new car or just fancy driving around in the newest plate, it all creates more stock entering the used car market.
- Dealerships receive more part exchanges
- More used cars become available
- Buyers have far more choice
- Dealers have more competition
- More supply can create better buying opportunities
When there's more choice available, you don't have to rush into buying the first decent car you see. You can compare more vehicles and wait for the right one.
Other Good Times To Buy
One thing I learnt working in a main dealership is that the end of the month can also be a good time to buy. Sales teams are often trying to hit monthly targets or bonuses, so they're sometimes more willing to improve the overall deal.
I wouldn't expect to walk into a dealership and get thousands of pounds knocked off the price, but you might find they're more willing to include things like servicing, warranties, finance contributions or a better part exchange allowance.
Buy Out Of Season
There are also clever ways of buying depending on the type of car you're after.
For example, if you've always wanted a convertible, don't start looking in May or June when everybody else wants one. Buy it in the middle of winter when demand is much lower. The same applies to four-wheel drives and SUVs, which often become more desirable as winter approaches.
"Buy cars when nobody else wants them, not when everybody else is looking for the same thing."
My Honest Opinion
There isn't a perfect time to buy a car and you shouldn't miss out on a brilliant vehicle just because it's the wrong month.
As I always say, a clean, well-maintained car with a full service history is worth far more than trying to save a few hundred pounds by timing the market perfectly.
If you find the right car that's been looked after properly, don't let the calendar put you off. Good cars sell quickly whatever time of year it is.
If you're unsure whether a car is fairly priced or want a second opinion before buying, our Expert Vehicle Review can assess the vehicle, its history and whether it's actually worth the money.
Alfie has over 11 years of experience in the motor trade and founded Alfa Prestige to give buyers the insider knowledge that was previously only available to professionals.
