When it comes to purchasing a new or used car, timing can significantly impact the price and overall buying experience. While many people focus on shopping during the holidays or at the end of the year, fall is often overlooked as a prime time to purchase a vehicle. According to MarketWatch, the best time to buy a car is from October through January 1. If you’re ready to get a great deal on a great car—whether new, used, or repossessed—now is the time. Here’s why.
New Model Year Arrivals
Each fall, car manufacturers begin rolling out their new models for the upcoming year. Dealerships are eager to make room for these fresh arrivals, and as a result, they’re more motivated to clear out current inventory. If you’re not concerned about having the absolute latest model, you can take advantage of significant discounts on the previous year’s models, which are often just as reliable and feature-rich. Plus, sales teams are under pressure to move older inventory, giving buyers more leverage to negotiate.
End-of-Quarter Sales Goals
The fall season marks the final stretch before the end of the year. Many car dealerships are focused on meeting quarterly and annual sales targets. Salespeople and dealerships may be more willing to offer attractive deals in order to hit their quotas, which can result in better prices and promotions for buyers. And, with dealerships competing to achieve sales numbers before year-end, you’re more likely to find competing offers, giving you the chance to shop around for the best deal.
Reduced Demand in the Fall Car Buying Season
While spring and summer are peak car-buying seasons, fall sees a dip in consumer demand. Many people prefer to purchase vehicles during the warmer months, either before a big road trip or as part of summer promotions. However, this reduced demand in the fall can work in your favor. There’s less competition from fewer buyers on the market, a wider selection of vehicles to choose from, and lower prices overall.
Holiday Sales Events
Fall ushers in the holiday season, which often brings special sales events, particularly around Labor Day and Black Friday. These holiday sales can result in significant savings on both new and used vehicles. For instance, in recent years, car dealerships have jumped on the Black Friday bandwagon, offering exclusive discounts and incentives to buyers who are ready to make a purchase before the end of the year.
Upcoming Weather Changes
As the colder temperatures set in, buyers are motivated to purchase cars that perform well in adverse conditions, such as SUVs, trucks, or all-wheel-drive vehicles. If you live in an area where snow, ice, and rain are common during the winter, fall is an excellent time to shop for a vehicle with the features you need to handle inclement weather. RepoFinder sees an uptick in winter-ready SUVs and pickup trucks this time of year, which are often equipped with four-wheel drive and snow tires.
Access to Year-End Models
In addition to new models arriving, fall gives you access to year-end models with the latest features and technology. These cars often come with incentives from manufacturers who want to showcase the newest features while still clearing out older models. Fall is the sweet spot between getting a nearly brand-new vehicle at a reduced price, without sacrificing on the latest technology.
Favorable Financing Options
In the fall, manufacturers and dealerships are likely to offer financing promotions to attract buyers and boost sales before the year ends. You might find offers such as low or no-interest financing or extended loan terms.
Shop for Repo Cars This Fall Car Buying Season
Fall is an ideal time to purchase a car, thanks to a combination of new model arrivals, dealer incentives, reduced demand, and favorable financing offers. When you browse repossessed vehicles from RepoFinder, you have access to all types of vehicles—sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, minivans, trucks, and more. We always have great deals and motivated sellers, giving you the power to negotiate a great price. Browse our vehicles today and see what cars await you this fall season.