When is the best time to buy a car?

Short answer: For used cars, October and November, according to Edmunds sales data. For new cars, December has traditionally had the highest discounts off MSRP. End of month can help too, but only if the dealer is still short of its quota.

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What the data says

  • Used: Edmunds names October and November the best months, with November best; January tends to start high and March–April get a lift from tax season (Edmunds).
  • New: December has traditionally had the highest average discounts off MSRP (Edmunds).
  • End of month: helps when the store is short of its sales target; less so if it already hit it (Edmunds).

Timing matters less than the deal

  1. If you need a car now, a fair price on a good car beats waiting.
  2. Get your financing pre-approved first.
  3. Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment.
  4. Have the quote checked for add-ons before you sign.

FAQ

What is the best month to buy a used car?

November, followed by October, based on Edmunds sales data.

Is the end of the month a good time to buy a car?

It can be, because dealers chase monthly quotas. Edmunds notes it helps less if the dealer has already met its target.

What is the worst time to buy a used car?

Edmunds says January starts strong for used car values, and March and April get a lift from tax-refund season.

Got a dealer quote? Scan it free for junk fees or get a buyer-side expert to Check My Deal for $19 (money-back guarantee).

Sources

Figures as published by each source; checked October 2026. All buyer guides