when is the best time to buy a car? and why ?

There are two general times that I find the best to buy a car. The first time is near the end of the model year. The dealers and salespeople as well as the buyers are focused on the new model year. Therefore there is a shortage of buyers and the dealers need to get rid of the inventory. So there are normally lots of specials and they will generally be easier to deal with.

If you find yourself in need to get a new car and are not in a position to wait until the end of the model year, then go to the dealer two or three working days before the end of the month. The dealership as well as the salesmen are always trying to make their quota for the month. I suggest you go two or three days before the end of the month. But do not buy on that day. Get as good a quote as you can and then leave. If they are really trying to make their quota, you can expect the dealership/salesperson to call you over the next couple of days. Remember the person most anxious will give in. So you must not be emotionally attached to buying the car. Play it cool. They will make their best offer.

No matter what time you go, you will make a better deal the more information you have. I suggest you look at Kelly Blue Book or some other service and get the dealer's cost information. Do not fall for the old trick that they try to say they will sell at $200 under their invoice. They still have lots of profit at that price. The invoice the dealership shows you is not their final cost. The factory always has discounts and incentives.

Remember you will always make the best deal if you are willing to walk away. Also, do not go for the credit life and extended warranty that the dealerships try to sell. It does no good to haggle for a good price and then give it all away on some foolish dealership add on or high profit item that really does not benefit you.