Best time to buy a car

meg00

I am looking to buy a new car as I need a bigger boot for mum's wheelchair.
I have previously bought Skoda ex demos, which have been fine.
I am going to test drive Dascias this weekend, but will probably sell my current car privately, so no part ex needed. I can buy new or used, and be paying cash.
Would it be worth waiting till the new year, or does it not matter?
Thanks,
Meg.

AdrianC

For used, there's not likely to be much difference.
If you buy new, then there may be a minor difference in resale in the future between a 2019 68-plate and a 2018 68-plate. There may also be a difference come 19-plate in March.

But compared to managing your requirements, I'd be stepping away from the crystal ball.

Unless you're going for something new ex-stock, then you'll need to consider lead times, too. If you are looking ex-stock, why not go for pre-reg and miss out the initial depreciation...? There may well be decent supplies of pre-WLTP stock on 18 plates.

fatrab

December used to be considered the best time to buy cars as generally there was less foot fall - folk were spending their pennies on Xmas - but I'm not sure that's the case any more.


As a cash buyer I'd haggle hard and be prepared to walk away if they're not playing ball.


Best of luck on your car hunt

marlot

Auction prices are typically lowest in November, as dealers don't expect much footfall in December. They usually pick up in January. But the market is all over the place at the moment as some manufacturers have had trouble getting their vehicles through the WLTP tests.


Just go for a deal you're happy with - try a few brokers.

DoaM

WLTP = Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure

Yes, I had to Google it.

Mercdriver

fatrab wrote: »

As a cash buyer I'd haggle hard and be prepared to walk away if they're not playing ball.


Best of luck on your car hunt

Are you under the misapprehension that cash is king? It generally isn't with cars.