Historically the strongest window. Dealerships must meet monthly, quarterly, and annual sales goals simultaneously. The week between Christmas and New Year's is a prime time for negotiation.

When's The Best Time To Buy A Used Car? (2026 Update) | Motorway

These are often the slowest months for showrooms. Dealers are eager to move inventory that didn't sell during the holiday rush, and a surge of trade-ins from New Year buyers increases supply.

Shopping during periods of high demand will typically result in higher prices and less room to haggle.

Aim for Tuesdays or Wednesdays . Showrooms are far less busy than on weekends, meaning you get more one-on-one time with staff and less competition for the vehicle you want. 3. Times to Avoid

The best time to buy a used car is generally during the , when buyer demand falls and dealerships are pressured to hit year-end sales targets. In 2026, the used market remains tight with average prices near $26,000, making strategic timing essential to avoid peak pricing seasons. 1. The Best Times of Year