Is there a 'best' time of year to buy a used car?

torncurtain

Just like with most things, there's usually a best time of year to catch some savings. Is there a best time of year to buy a used car? Such as maybe in the run-up to Christmas or in the New Year? People might want to sell their cars to fund holidays or because they've been gifted a new one.

Figured I'd ask, and maybe someone might know.

DUTR

torncurtain wrote: »

Just like with most things, there's usually a best time of year to catch some savings. Is there a best time of year to buy a used car? Such as maybe in the run-up to Christmas or in the New Year? People might want to sell their cars to fund holidays or because they've been gifted a new one.

Figured I'd ask, and maybe someone might know.

People aren't often selling their cars because they are desperate for the money.

lincroft1710

At one time it was when the new registrations came out as dealers had a glut of trade ins.

torncurtain

Really? I know of a few people who sold their vehicles for money. This was a few years back, I guess things have changed.

Herzlos

It depends on the age and style of car. Nearly new values drop slightly with plate and model changes. Convertibles and sports cars dip after summer, 4x4's dip after winter.

Older car prices tend to be a bit more stable.

It's likely the desperate car seller will take it to a car buying place for same day cash.

DUTR

torncurtain wrote: »

Really? I know of a few people who sold their vehicles for money. This was a few years back, I guess things have changed.

Everybody sells their car for money, all the cars I have sold were simply because I was getting a newer and different model car, I'd guess that's the case for the majority of private sellers.